Numbers 14:31

But I will bring your children, whom you said would become plunder, into the land you have rejected--and they will enjoy it.

Study Bible

But I will bring your children
This phrase signifies God's promise and faithfulness despite the rebellion of the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "bring" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which implies a sense of leading or causing to enter. This reflects God's active role in fulfilling His promises. Historically, this is a pivotal moment where God assures the next generation of their inheritance, emphasizing His mercy and long-term plan for His people.

whom you said would become plunder
Here, the Israelites' lack of faith is highlighted. They feared their children would be taken as spoils of war. The Hebrew word for "plunder" is "בַּז" (baz), which denotes spoils or loot taken by force. This reflects the Israelites' despair and lack of trust in God's protection. Theologically, it underscores the contrast between human fear and divine assurance.

into the land you have rejected
The "land" refers to Canaan, the Promised Land. The Hebrew word for "rejected" is "מָאַס" (ma'as), meaning to despise or refuse. This rejection was a result of the Israelites' disbelief and disobedience. Historically, this rejection led to their wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. Spiritually, it serves as a warning against the consequences of unbelief and disobedience to God's commands.

and they will enjoy it
The phrase "enjoy it" is derived from the Hebrew "יָדַע" (yada), which means to know or experience. This implies a deep, fulfilling experience of the land's blessings. It highlights God's grace in allowing the children to experience what their parents forfeited. This serves as an inspirational reminder of God's redemptive plans and the joy found in His promises when embraced with faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying to the Promised Land. They doubted God's promise and feared the inhabitants of Canaan.

2. The Promised Land (Canaan)
The land God promised to Abraham and his descendants. It represents God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

3. The Children of the Israelites
The next generation who were promised entry into the Promised Land despite their parents' unbelief and rebellion.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who interceded for the people when God threatened to destroy them for their lack of faith.

5. The Wilderness
The place where the Israelites wandered for 40 years as a consequence of their disobedience and lack of faith.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite the Israelites' rebellion, God remained faithful to His promise to bring their descendants into the Promised Land. This teaches us that God's promises are sure and steadfast.

Consequences of Unbelief
The Israelites' lack of faith resulted in a generation missing out on God's blessings. We must trust in God's word and not let fear or doubt rob us of His promises.

Hope for Future Generations
Even when a generation fails, God can raise up the next generation to fulfill His purposes. This encourages us to invest in and pray for the faith of future generations.

God's Grace and Mercy
Despite the Israelites' rebellion, God showed mercy by allowing their children to enter the land. This reminds us of God's grace and the opportunity for redemption.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise to the children in Numbers 14:31 demonstrate God's faithfulness despite human failure?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we do not fall into the same unbelief as the Israelites did in the wilderness?

3. How can we apply the lesson of hope for future generations in our own families and communities?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to trust in God's promises when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges?

5. How does the account of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land encourage us to persevere in our own spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 1:39
This verse reiterates the promise that the children, who were thought to be vulnerable, would inherit the land. It emphasizes God's faithfulness to His promises despite human failure.

Hebrews 3:16-19
This passage reflects on the unbelief of the Israelites and serves as a warning to believers to remain faithful and obedient to God.

Psalm 106:24-27
This psalm recounts the Israelites' rebellion and God's judgment, highlighting the importance of trusting in God's promises.