March 4, 2021

Purification in the Wilderness

Numbers 35 and Numbers 36

The book of Numbers records the journey of Israel from the foot of Mount Sinai, through the wilderness, to the verge of the Promised Land. Over forty years, the book records the transition from the generation that was brought out of Egypt (Numbers 1) to the new generation (Numbers 26). 

The journey has not always been easy. After a series of rebellions in Numbers 11-21, the Lord sentences the old generation to death and raises up a new generation to take their place. Even though His people have rebelled against Him, the Lord remains faithful to His covenant promise to them. 

The book concludes with a few details for settling the land, along with a promise and a cliffhanger. The Lord promises that no tribe will die out (Numbers 36:9), but also commands Moses to go up the mountain to die (Numbers 27:12). Before Moses passes the leadership of Israel to Joshua, his last words are recorded in the next book, Deuteronomy. 

“Each of the tribes of the people of Israel shall hold on to its own inheritance.” - Numbers 36:9
Mark 9:30-50

As Jesus continues to prove his identity as the Son of God, he teaches his disciples that true greatness comes through suffering and service. He foretells his death and resurrection for a second time, but the disciples still do not yet grasp the fullness of his mission. 

Jesus follows this teaching with an object lesson. He warns that anyone who corrupts the childlike faith of one of his followers will face the eternal punishment of God’s wrath. By using hyperbole, he shows that any type of sin is serious enough to cause separation from God. 

Only through the self-sacrificial love modeled by Jesus can his followers live at peace with one another. 

Make It Personal
  • Even though Israel rebelled, the Lord did not forsake His promise to them. Where has God been patient with you in your own life?
  • Does any part of your life feel like a “wilderness” season right now? If so, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you what old thought patterns and behaviors He is removing from you. Ask Him what future promises you still have to inherit in your future. 
  • Mark 9:49 says that “everyone will be salted with fire.” What “fires” or suffering are you experiencing in your life? Ask the Lord for strength that this “fire” will bring you closer to Him and remove anything that is not from Him. 

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