Numbers 31:25

The LORD said to Moses,

Study Bible

The LORD
This phrase refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God revealed to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:14). In Hebrew, it is represented by the Tetragrammaton YHWH, emphasizing God's eternal, self-existent nature. The use of "The LORD" here underscores the divine authority and sovereignty of God in the events that follow. It reminds us that the instructions given are not merely human decisions but are divinely ordained, reflecting God's holiness and justice.

said
The Hebrew word used here is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to speak, declare, or command. This verb indicates direct communication from God to Moses, highlighting the prophetic nature of Moses' leadership. It emphasizes the importance of listening to God's voice and obeying His commands. In the broader biblical narrative, God's spoken word is powerful and creative, as seen in Genesis 1, where God speaks the world into existence.

to Moses
Moses is a central figure in the Pentateuch, chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and to receive the Law on Mount Sinai. His name, derived from the Hebrew "מֹשֶׁה" (Moshe), is traditionally understood to mean "drawn out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile as a baby. Moses' role as a mediator between God and the people is crucial, and this verse reaffirms his position as God's chosen leader. Historically, Moses is seen as a type of Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate mediator between God and humanity. This phrase reminds us of the importance of faithful leadership and obedience to God's calling.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is the central figure in the account, giving instructions to Moses.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He acts as the mediator between God and the Israelites.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are in the wilderness journey towards the Promised Land. They are the recipients of God's laws and instructions.

4. Midianites
A people who were adversaries of Israel, against whom the Israelites waged war as commanded by God.

5. The Spoils of War
The goods and possessions taken from the Midianites after their defeat, which are to be divided according to God's instructions.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Divine Instruction
God's instructions to Moses highlight the importance of obedience. As believers, we are called to follow God's commands even when they challenge our understanding or desires.

Stewardship of Resources
The division of spoils underscores the principle of stewardship. We are entrusted with resources and must manage them according to God's will, ensuring fairness and justice.

God's Sovereignty in Warfare
The account demonstrates God's control over battles and outcomes. Trusting in God's sovereignty can bring peace in times of conflict and uncertainty.

Community and Shared Blessings
The distribution of spoils among the community reflects the importance of sharing God's blessings. We are encouraged to support and uplift one another within the body of Christ.

Holiness and Separation
The Israelites' actions against the Midianites remind us of the call to holiness and separation from sin. We must be vigilant in maintaining purity in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction given to Moses in Numbers 31:25 reflect God's character and priorities?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, especially when faced with difficult decisions?

3. How does the concept of stewardship in the division of spoils challenge us to manage our own resources?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' handling of the Midianites that apply to our interactions with those who oppose us?

5. How can the call to holiness and separation from sin in Numbers 31 be reconciled with Jesus' teaching on loving our enemies in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 17
The Israelites' earlier conflict with the Amalekites, another group opposed to God's people, showing a pattern of divine intervention and instruction in warfare.

Deuteronomy 20
Provides laws concerning warfare, including the treatment of enemies and the division of spoils, which parallels the instructions given in Numbers 31.

Joshua 6
The fall of Jericho, where God gives specific instructions on how to handle the spoils of war, emphasizing obedience to divine commands.

1 Samuel 15
Saul's disobedience in the handling of spoils from the Amalekites, contrasting with the obedience expected in Numbers 31.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies, providing a New Testament perspective on dealing with adversaries.