Numbers 31:1
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 5
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 5
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
The Midianites had employed Balaam's counsel to seduce Israel into worshiping Baal-Peor through sexual immorality, resulting in a plague that killed 24,000 Israelites. This judgment answered that offense. Moses' role in executing this final act of leadership before his death demonstrated his faithful service to the end. The battle would avenge both God's honor and Israel's corruption.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's command for judgment demonstrate His holiness and justice?
- What does Moses' service until death teach about faithful leadership?
- In what ways does temporal judgment on sin illustrate eternal judgment to come?
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Analysis & Commentary
The LORD's command to Moses to 'avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites' demonstrates that God executes judgment through His people. The phrase 'afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people' connects Moses' final military leadership with his approaching death. This teaches that God's leaders fulfill their calling even to life's end. The judgment on Midian for leading Israel into idolatry and sexual immorality (Numbers 25) shows that God takes seriously the corruption of His people. The Reformed doctrine of divine judgment includes temporal punishment executed through human agency.