Numbers 15:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 15:31
31 Because he hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him.
Chapter Context
Numbers 15 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, sacrifice, wisdom. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-41: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 15:31
31 Because he hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him.
Analysis
Sins committed 'presumptuously' (Hebrew 'beyad ramah' - with a high hand) deserve severe judgment: the person 'shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him.' Presumptuous sins are deliberate, defiant rebellion against God's known will, unlike sins of ignorance (v.22-29) which have atonement. The phrase 'reproacheth the LORD' shows such sins insult God's character and authority. This person 'despised the word of the LORD' - rejecting divine revelation knowingly. Hebrews 10:26-29 applies this principle: willful, persistent sin after knowing truth brings severe judgment. This doesn't mean believers lose salvation, but that presumptuous rebellion proves lack of genuine conversion.
Historical Context
The immediate context (v.32-36) gives an example: a man gathering sticks on the Sabbath was stoned to death. This wasn't mere negligence but defiant disobedience - everyone knew Sabbath requirements. The death penalty demonstrated that flagrant covenant violation threatened the entire community's relationship with God. In Israel's theocracy, civil penalty enforced religious law. While the church doesn't execute civil punishment, church discipline (Matt 18:15-20, 1 Cor 5:1-13) addresses flagrant, unrepentant sin to protect the congregation and restore the offender.
Reflection
- Are there areas where you're sinning presumptuously - knowing God's will but deliberately disobeying?
- How does the severity of judgment on presumptuous sin highlight the seriousness of trampling God's grace and despising His Word?
Word Studies
- Iniquity: עָוֹן (Avon) H5771 - Iniquity, guilt, punishment
Cross-References
- Word: 2 Samuel 12:9, Psalms 119:126, Proverbs 13:13, Isaiah 30:12, 2 Peter 2:21
- Sin: Leviticus 5:1, Isaiah 53:6, Ezekiel 18:20
- Parallel theme: Psalms 38:4, 1 Thessalonians 4:8