Numbers 31:3

So Moses told the people, "Arm some of your men for war, that they may go against the Midianites and execute the LORD's vengeance on them.

Study Bible

So Moses told the people
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, where Moses, the leader appointed by God, communicates divine instructions to the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "told" is "דָּבַר" (dabar), which means to speak or declare. This emphasizes the authoritative and prophetic role of Moses as God's mouthpiece. Historically, Moses' leadership is crucial as he guides the Israelites through the wilderness, acting as a mediator between God and His people. This moment underscores the importance of obedience to divine commands in the life of the covenant community.

Arm some of your men
The instruction to "arm" the men indicates preparation for battle, a common theme in the Old Testament where physical warfare often parallels spiritual warfare. The Hebrew word "חָלַץ" (chalats) means to equip or prepare for war. This preparation is not just physical but also spiritual, as the Israelites are called to trust in God's deliverance. The historical context here is significant, as the Israelites are about to engage in a divinely sanctioned battle against the Midianites, highlighting the theme of God's justice and judgment against sin.

for war
The phrase "for war" signifies a specific purpose and mission. The Hebrew word "מִלְחָמָה" (milchamah) refers to battle or warfare. In the biblical narrative, war is often depicted as a means through which God executes His judgment and fulfills His promises. This context reminds the reader of the spiritual battles believers face, encouraging them to rely on God's strength and guidance.

against the Midianites
The Midianites were a nomadic people often in conflict with Israel. Historically, they were descendants of Abraham through Keturah, and their interactions with Israel were marked by both kinship and enmity. The command to go to war against the Midianites is rooted in their previous actions, particularly their role in leading Israel into idolatry and immorality (Numbers 25). This highlights the biblical theme of holiness and the need to separate from influences that lead away from God.

to execute the LORD’s vengeance
This phrase underscores the concept of divine retribution. The Hebrew word for "vengeance" is "נָקָם" (naqam), which refers to retribution or justice. In the biblical context, God's vengeance is not about human anger but about restoring justice and holiness. This reflects the character of God as just and righteous, who acts against sin and rebellion. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the assurance that God will ultimately uphold His righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses is acting on God's command to prepare the Israelites for battle against the Midianites.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They are being instructed to arm themselves for a divinely sanctioned battle.

3. The Midianites
A nomadic people who were often in conflict with the Israelites. In this context, they are the target of God's vengeance due to their role in leading Israel into sin.

4. The LORD’s Vengeance
This refers to God's judgment and retribution against the Midianites for their actions against Israel, particularly their involvement in leading Israel into idolatry and immorality.

5. War
The event of armed conflict that Moses is preparing the Israelites for, as a means of executing divine justice.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
God's justice is perfect and righteous. The call to war against the Midianites was not a human decision but a divine command to execute justice.

Obedience to God’s Commands
Moses' instruction to arm for battle demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's directives, even when they involve difficult tasks.

The Consequences of Sin
The Midianites' actions led to severe consequences, illustrating the seriousness of leading others into sin and the resulting divine judgment.

Spiritual Warfare
While this passage deals with physical warfare, it can be a metaphor for spiritual warfare, reminding believers to be prepared to stand against spiritual forces of evil.

Trust in God’s Sovereignty
Believers are reminded to trust in God's sovereign plan and timing, knowing that He will execute justice in His perfect way.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to arm for battle in Numbers 31:3 reflect the nature of God's justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, even when they are challenging?

3. How does the concept of divine vengeance in this passage relate to the New Testament teachings on leaving vengeance to God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by the Midianites about the seriousness of sin and leading others astray?

5. How can we prepare ourselves for spiritual warfare, drawing parallels from the Israelites' preparation for physical battle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:1-4
Provides background on the Midianites as descendants of Abraham through Keturah, showing the complex familial ties between the Israelites and Midianites.

Exodus 17:8-16
Describes another instance of conflict with a related group, the Amalekites, highlighting the ongoing struggles between the Israelites and neighboring tribes.

Deuteronomy 32:35
Emphasizes the concept of divine vengeance, reinforcing that vengeance belongs to the Lord and is executed according to His will.

Romans 12:19
Echoes the theme of divine vengeance, instructing believers to leave room for God's wrath rather than seeking personal revenge.