◄ Numbers 24 ►
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Balaam’s Third Oracle 1And when Balaam saw that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel, he did not seek omens as on previous occasions, but he turned his face toward the wilderness. 2When Balaam looked up and saw Israel encamped tribe by tribe, the Spirit of God came upon him, 3and he lifted up an oracle, saying: “This is the prophecy of Balaam son of Beor, the prophecy of a man whose eyes are open, 4the prophecy of one who hears the words of God, who sees a vision from the Almighty,a who bows down with eyes wide open: 5How lovely are your tents, O Jacob, your dwellings, O Israel! 6They spread out like palm groves,b like gardens beside a stream, like aloes the LORD has planted, like cedars beside the waters. 7Water will flow from his buckets, and his seed will have abundant water. His king will be greater than Agag, and his kingdom will be exalted. 8God brought him out of Egypt with strength like a wild ox, to devour hostile nations and crush their bones, to pierce them with arrows. 9He crouches, he lies down like a lion, like a lioness—who dares to rouse him? Blessed are those who bless you and cursed are those who curse you.” Balak Dismisses Balaam 10Then Balak’s anger burned against Balaam, and he struck his hands together and said to Balaam, “I summoned you to curse my enemies, but behold, you have persisted in blessing them these three times. 11Therefore, flee at once to your home! I said I would reward you richly, but instead the LORD has denied your reward.” 12Balaam answered Balak, “Did I not already tell the messengers you sent me 13that even if Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not do anything of my own accord, good or bad, to go beyond the command of the LORD? I must speak whatever the LORD says. 14Now I am going back to my people, but come, let me warn you what this people will do to your people in the days to come.” Balaam’s Fourth Oracle 15Then Balaam lifted up an oracle, saying, “This is the prophecy of Balaam son of Beor, the prophecy of a man whose eyes are open, 16the prophecy of one who hears the words of God, who has knowledge from the Most High, who sees a vision from the Almighty, who bows down with eyes wide open: 17I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come forth from Jacob, and a scepter will arise from Israel. He will crush the skullsc of Moab and strike down all the sons of Sheth. 18Edom will become a possession, as will Seir, his enemy; but Israel will perform with valor. 19A ruler will come from Jacob and destroy the survivors of the city.” Balaam’s Final Three Oracles 20Then Balaam saw Amalek and lifted up an oracle, saying: “Amalek was first among the nations, but his end is destruction.” 21Next he saw the Kenites and lifted up an oracle, saying: “Your dwelling place is secure, and your nest is set in a cliff. 22Yet Kain will be destroyed when Asshurd takes you captive.” 23Once more Balaam lifted up an oracle, saying: “Ah, who can live unless God has ordained it? 24Ships will come from the coasts of Cyprus;e they will subdue Asshur and Eber, but they too will perish forever.” 25Then Balaam arose and returned to his homeland, and Balak also went on his way. Footnotes: 4 a Hebrew Shaddai; also in verse 16 6 b Or like valleys 17 c SP foreheads; Hebrew corners (of the head); LXX princes 22 d Or Assyria; also in verse 24 24 e Hebrew Kittim Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Numbers 24 Summary Balaam's Additional Oracles Verses 1–2 – Balaam’s Changed Approach With the LORD’s pleasure to bless Israel now obvious, Balaam abandons his earlier occult practices, turns toward the wilderness where Israel is camped, and the Spirit of God overtakes him. Verses 3–9 – Oracle of Blessing on Israel Balaam, “the man whose eyes are open,” bursts into poetry celebrating Israel’s beauty, fruitfulness, and invincibility. He repeats the Abrahamic promise: “Blessed are those who bless you, and cursed are those who curse you” (v. 9). Verses 10–14 – Balak’s Wrath and Balaam’s Defense Balak’s fury erupts as he claps his hands in frustration, telling Balaam to go home empty-handed. Balaam reminds him that no reward could make him contradict God’s word, then offers one final prophetic warning. Verses 15–19 – The Star and Scepter Prophecy A distant but certain ruler arises: “A star shall come forth out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel” (v. 17). This king will crush Moab, subdue Edom, and bring victory to Israel. Verse 20 – Oracle against Amalek Amalek, first to attack Israel in the wilderness (Exodus 17), will meet complete destruction. Verses 21–22 – Oracle against the Kenites The Kenites’ rocky strongholds cannot save them; Asshur (Assyria) will carry them away. Verses 23–24 – Oracle against the Nations From distant Kittim (Cyprus or the wider Mediterranean world) great ships will conquer Asshur and Eber, yet they too will fall under God’s decree. Verse 25 – Balaam’s Departure Prophet and king part ways, Balaam heading east, Balak returning home—both powerless to reverse the blessing God has spoken. Numbers 24 is a captivating chapter in the Bible that depicts the manifestation of God's power and His irrevocable blessings over the nation of Israel. Despite King Balak's consistent attempts to curse Israel through the prophet Balaam, God's unwavering blessing prevails, demonstrating His sovereignty and unconditional love for His chosen people. Historical Setting Israel is camped on the plains of Moab across the Jordan from Jericho (Numbers 22:1). Balak, king of Moab, fears the nation that has just defeated the Amorite kings. Numbers 24 unfolds in the late 15th century BC (early-date Exodus view) or the 13th century BC (late-date view). Either way, the scene sits at the threshold of the Conquest. Archaeological Insights • Deir Alla Inscription (Jordan, 1967) mentions “Balaam son of Beor,” echoing the biblical name and portraying him as a visionary. The text’s Aramaic dialect fits the region east of the Jordan, lending historical weight to the account. • Moabite sites such as Tell el-Hammam and Tell-Balua show fortified late-Bronze occupation, matching Balak’s anxiety about invasion. • Rock-cut dwellings in modern Wadi Dana may illustrate the Kenites’ “nest … in a cliff” (v. 21). Literary Structure Numbers 22–24 forms a chiastic narrative: A – Balak’s summons (22) B – Three attempts to curse (23) C – Balaam’s final oracles (24) B′ – Three oracles against nations (24) A′ – Dismissal (24:25) The repetition reinforces God’s unwavering resolve to bless. Key Themes • God’s sovereignty: human schemes cannot override divine intent. • Blessing vs. cursing: Genesis 12:3 resurfaces. • Vision vs. greed: Balaam “sees” yet later succumbs to profit-driven counsel (31:16). • Foreshadowing the King: the star and scepter point beyond the immediate context. Messianic Foretelling: The Star and Scepter 1. Near fulfillment: David subdues Moab and Edom (2 Samuel 8:2, 13). 2. Ultimate fulfillment: Jesus, the “bright Morning Star” (Revelation 22:16), receives the scepter (Hebrews 1:8). 3. Echo in the Magi: Matthew 2’s star-gazers, perhaps heirs of an eastern prophetic tradition, head west seeking the newborn King. 4. Parallels to Genesis 49:10—“The scepter will not depart from Judah.” Connection to the Rest of Scripture • Genesis 22:17—seed as stars; here the star represents the Seed. • Exodus 17:14—Amalek’s fate foretold, confirmed in v. 20. • Isaiah 60 and Psalm 72—earth’s kings drawn to Israel’s Light, expanding on Balaam’s glimpse. • 2 Peter 2:15; Jude 11; Revelation 2:14—Balaam becomes a byword for corrupt counsel. • Micah 6:5—prophet urges Israel to remember “what Balak king of Moab counseled and what Balaam son of Beor answered.” Theological and Practical Applications • God can speak through unlikely vessels; truth stands regardless of the messenger’s motives. • No enchantment or curse can overturn God’s blessing on His people (Romans 8:31). • Believers are called to bless Israel and pray for her peace (Psalm 122:6; Romans 11:28-29). • Greed blinds; the same Balaam who utters sublime prophecy later lures Israel into immorality (Numbers 25, 31:16). Guard the heart (1 Timothy 6:9-10). Contrasting Responses: Balaam vs. Balak Balak hears truth yet resists, scrambling for a workaround. Balaam speaks truth yet will not obey it. The narrative warns that information without submission leads to ruin. Geographical Notes: Peaks of Pisgah and Peor • Pisgah range overlooks the Jordan Valley—ideal for surveying Israel’s camp. • Peor is part of the Moabite highlands, sacred to the god Baal-Peor. The prophet’s vantage points amplify the visual drama of blessing. Israel’s Enemies Named in the Oracle 1. Moab—immediate neighbor; subdued under David. 2. Edom/Seir—Edomites later opposed Judah (Obadiah). 3. Amalek—persistent desert raiders; destroyed under Saul and David. 4. Kenites—initial allies (Judges 1:16) but eventually exiled by Assyria. 5. Asshur (Assyria)—future world power. 6. Kittim—broader Mediterranean forces (later Greeks/Romans). The sweep shows God ruling over the entire Near-Eastern stage. Balaam in Later Scripture • 2 Peter 2:15 exposes “the way of Balaam, who loved the wages of wickedness.” • Jude 11 labels his error as merchandising spiritual gifts. • Revelation 2:14 reveals his role in teaching compromise. The New Testament treats Balaam as a cautionary tale. Prophetic Patterns and Double Fulfillment • Immediate: Davidic victories. • Extended: rise and fall of ancient empires. • Ultimate: Christ’s return to rule (Revelation 19:15). Scripture often moves from a near horizon to a far one, inviting readers to trace both lines. Christ in Numbers 24 • Star – Light of the world (John 8:12). • Scepter – Rightful King (Revelation 19:16). • Lion imagery (v. 9) links to “the Lion of the tribe of Judah” (Revelation 5:5). • Blessing formula mirrors the gospel invitation—those who align with Christ share His blessing; those who reject Him face curse. Lessons on Divine Sovereignty Every attempt to curse God’s people turns into a fresh pronouncement of blessing (Proverbs 26:2). What Balak dreaded, he actually facilitated by funding Balaam’s platform to proclaim it! Faithful Covenant Promises Numbers 24 assures Israel—on the brink of the Jordan—that the covenant made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob stands unshakable. The same faithfulness undergirds the believer’s hope today (Hebrews 6:17-18). Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 12:3 I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you. Isaiah 55:11 So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it. Matthew 2:2 Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews? We saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty Despite Balak's intentions, God controls the outcome. Balaam declares, How can I curse whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce whom the LORD has not denounced? (Numbers 24:8). The Irrevocable Blessing Balaam's prophecies affirm God's blessing over Israel, highlighting that God's promises are unchangeable. God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind (Numbers 23:19). The Vision of the Messiah Balaam's prophecy includes a messianic vision, I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob, and a scepter will rise out of Israel (Numbers 24:17), pointing to the future coming of Christ. God's Protection Over His People The chapter underscores God's protective hand over Israel, ensuring that no curse can prevail against them. Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of uncertainty, remember that God is in control and His plans cannot be thwarted. Hold Fast to God's Promises Just as God's blessings over Israel were irrevocable, trust that His promises to you are steadfast and sure. Recognize God's Work in Unexpected Ways Be open to seeing how God might use unexpected people or circumstances to fulfill His purposes in your life. Look to Christ as the Fulfillment of Prophecy Reflect on how the Old Testament points to Jesus and find assurance in His role as the promised Savior. People 1. Balaam Balaam is a non-Israelite prophet or diviner who is called upon by Balak to curse Israel. Instead, he delivers blessings and prophecies concerning Israel's future. The Hebrew root for his name, "בִּלְעָם" (Bil'am), suggests meanings related to "devourer" or "destroyer of the people." 2. Balak Balak is the king of Moab who seeks Balaam's help to curse the Israelites because he fears their strength and numbers. His name in Hebrew, "בָּלָק" (Balaq), can mean "devastator" or "waster." 3. Israel While not a single person, Israel refers to the collective people of the Israelites, the descendants of Jacob, whom God has blessed. In Hebrew, "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el) means "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 4. Jacob Jacob is the patriarch of the Israelites, and his name is used in Balaam's prophecy to refer to the nation of Israel. The Hebrew name "יַעֲקֹב" (Ya'akov) means "heel holder" or "supplanter." 5. Agag Agag is mentioned in Balaam's prophecy as a king whose kingdom will be surpassed by Israel. The name "אֲגַג" (Agag) is of uncertain origin but is associated with Amalekite kings. 6. Amalek Amalek is mentioned as the first among the nations, but his end will be destruction. Amalek is a descendant of Esau and represents Israel's enemies. The Hebrew "עֲמָלֵק" (Amaleq) may mean "dweller in a valley." 7. Asshur Asshur is mentioned in the prophecy as a nation that will be conquered by Israel. Asshur is often associated with the Assyrian empire. The Hebrew "אַשּׁוּר" (Ashur) can mean "a step" or "to go straight." 8. Eber Eber is mentioned in the prophecy, and he is an ancestor of the Hebrews. The name "עֵבֶר" (Eber) means "beyond" or "the other side," often referring to the region beyond the Euphrates River. Places 1. Moab Moab is the region where Balaam is delivering his oracles. It is located east of the Dead Sea and is the land of the Moabites, descendants of Lot. In the context of Numbers 24, Moab is significant as the place where Balak, the king of Moab, has summoned Balaam to curse the Israelites. 2. Ephrathah Although not directly mentioned in Numbers 24, Ephrathah is often associated with Bethlehem. In the context of the prophecy, it is indirectly referenced as part of the lineage of Israel, particularly in the blessing over Israel's future king. 3. Edom Edom is the territory inhabited by the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. In Numbers 24:18, Edom is mentioned as a place that will be conquered by Israel, symbolizing the triumph of Israel over its enemies. 4. Seir Seir is a mountainous region associated with Edom. In Numbers 24:18, it is mentioned alongside Edom as a place that will be possessed by Israel, indicating the expansion of Israel's influence. 5. Amalek Amalek refers to the descendants of Amalek, a group that was often in conflict with Israel. In Numbers 24:20, Amalek is prophesied to be destroyed, highlighting the eventual downfall of Israel's adversaries. 6. Kenites The Kenites are a group mentioned in Numbers 24:21. They are known for their association with the Midianites and their friendly relations with Israel. The prophecy indicates that their dwelling place will be secure, but they will eventually face destruction. 7. Asshur Asshur, or Assyria, is mentioned in Numbers 24:22 as a powerful nation. The prophecy suggests that the Kenites will be taken captive by Asshur, indicating the far-reaching influence of this empire. 8. Kittim Kittim is referenced in Numbers 24:24, often associated with the islands and coastlands of the Mediterranean, possibly Cyprus or regions of Greece. The prophecy speaks of ships coming from Kittim, symbolizing distant nations that will afflict Asshur and Eber. Events 1. Balaam's Third Oracle Balaam, seeing that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel, did not resort to divination as before. Instead, he set his face toward the wilderness and saw Israel encamped tribe by tribe. The Spirit of God came upon him, and he delivered a prophecy. (Numbers 24:1-2) 2. The Oracle's Content Balaam's oracle begins with a declaration of his vision, stating, "The oracle of Balaam son of Beor, the oracle of the man whose eyes are open, the oracle of one who hears the words of God, who sees a vision from the Almighty, who bows down with eyes wide open." (Numbers 24:3-4) 3. Blessing of Israel Balaam describes the beauty and prosperity of Israel, comparing them to lush gardens and cedars beside the waters. He proclaims, "How beautiful are your tents, O Jacob, your dwellings, O Israel!" (Numbers 24:5-6) 4. Strength and Victory Balaam prophesies Israel's strength and future victories, saying, "God brought them out of Egypt; they have the strength of a wild ox. They devour hostile nations and break their bones in pieces; with their arrows they pierce them." (Numbers 24:8) 5. Blessing and Curse Balaam reiterates the blessing and curse principle, stating, "Blessed is everyone who blesses you, and cursed is everyone who curses you." (Numbers 24:9) 6. Balak's Anger Balak's anger is kindled against Balaam, and he strikes his hands together, expressing his frustration that Balaam has blessed Israel three times instead of cursing them. (Numbers 24:10) 7. Balaam's Response Balaam reminds Balak that he had previously told him he could only speak what the LORD put in his mouth, regardless of the reward offered. (Numbers 24:12-13) 8. Balaam's Fourth Oracle Balaam delivers a fourth oracle, which includes a prophecy about a future ruler from Israel, saying, "I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob, and a scepter will rise out of Israel." (Numbers 24:17) 9. Prophecies Against Other Nations Balaam continues with prophecies against various nations, including Edom, Seir, Amalek, the Kenites, and others, foretelling their eventual downfall. (Numbers 24:18-24) 10. Balaam's Departure After delivering his prophecies, Balaam rises and returns to his place, and Balak also goes his way. (Numbers 24:25) Lessons from Numbers 24 1. God’s Sovereignty Over All Nations In Numbers 24, we see that God is in control of all nations, not just Israel. Balaam, a prophet from a foreign land, is used by God to bless Israel instead of cursing them as Balak desired. This reminds us that "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof" (Psalm 24:1). God’s plans will always prevail, regardless of human intentions. 2. The Power of God’s Word Balaam declares, "The oracle of one who hears the words of God, who sees a vision from the Almighty" (Numbers 24:4). This highlights the power and authority of God’s Word. When God speaks, His words are true and unchangeable. We can trust in the promises of Scripture to guide and sustain us. 3. Blessings Flow from Obedience Despite Balak’s attempts to manipulate Balaam, God’s blessing on Israel remains steadfast. "How beautiful are your tents, O Jacob, your dwellings, O Israel!" (Numbers 24:5). This illustrates that when we walk in obedience to God, His blessings will follow us, even when others may wish us harm. 4. God’s Protection is Unfailing Balaam’s prophecy reveals that Israel is like a lion, strong and unassailable. "Like a lion they crouch and lie down, like a lioness—who dares to rouse them?" (Numbers 24:9). This is a powerful reminder that God’s protection is over His people. We can rest assured that He is our shield and defender. 5. God’s Plans are Unstoppable Balaam’s inability to curse Israel shows that God’s plans cannot be thwarted. "I received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it" (Numbers 24:20). When God sets a course, no human effort can alter it. Trust in His divine plan for your life. 6. The Coming of a Ruler Balaam prophesies about a star and a scepter rising out of Israel, pointing to the coming of a great ruler. "A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel" (Numbers 24:17). This is a foreshadowing of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who reigns eternally. It’s a reminder of the hope we have in Christ’s ultimate victory. 7. God Uses Unlikely Messengers Balaam, a non-Israelite, is used by God to deliver His message. This shows that God can use anyone to accomplish His purposes. "The LORD opened Balaam’s eyes" (Numbers 24:16). Be open to how God might use you or others in unexpected ways to share His truth. 8. The Importance of Spiritual Vision Balaam’s eyes are opened to see the vision of the Almighty. "The oracle of one whose eyes are opened" (Numbers 24:3). Spiritual insight is crucial for understanding God’s will. Pray for discernment and clarity to see beyond the physical and into the spiritual realm. 9. God’s Faithfulness to His Promises The blessings pronounced over Israel are a testament to God’s faithfulness. "God brought them out of Egypt; they have the strength of a wild ox" (Numbers 24:8). God keeps His promises, and His faithfulness endures through all generations. We can rely on His steadfast love and commitment. 10. The Assurance of Victory The prophecy concludes with the assurance of Israel’s triumph over its enemies. "Edom will be conquered; Seir, his enemy, will be conquered, but Israel will grow strong" (Numbers 24:18). This is a powerful reminder that in Christ, we have victory over sin and death. Our ultimate triumph is secured through His resurrection. These lessons from Numbers 24 encourage us to trust in God’s sovereignty, rely on His Word, and embrace the hope we have in Christ. Let these truths inspire and guide you in your daily walk with the Lord. Topics 1. Balaam's Third Oracle Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, delivers his third oracle. The Spirit of God comes upon him, and he speaks a blessing over Israel instead of a curse. This oracle emphasizes the divine inspiration behind Balaam's words. The Hebrew root for "oracle" (מַשָּׂא, ^massa^) indicates a burden or a message from God. ^Quote: "The oracle of Balaam son of Beor, the oracle of the man whose eyes are open..."^ (Numbers 24:3). 2. Vision of Israel's Future Prosperity Balaam describes the future prosperity and strength of Israel, using vivid imagery of gardens and trees. This reflects God's covenant promises to Israel. The Hebrew word for "vision" (חָזוֹן, ^chazon^) implies a divine revelation. ^Quote: "How beautiful are your tents, O Jacob, your dwellings, O Israel!"^ (Numbers 24:5). 3. The Rise of a Star from Jacob Balaam prophesies the coming of a ruler from Israel, symbolized by a star. This is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy, pointing to Jesus Christ. The Hebrew word for "star" (כּוֹכָב, ^kokab^) is significant in biblical prophecy. ^Quote: "A star will come out of Jacob, and a scepter will rise from Israel."^ (Numbers 24:17). 4. Judgment on Israel's Enemies Balaam foretells the defeat of Israel's enemies, including Moab, Edom, and Amalek. This reflects God's protection and justice for His chosen people. The Hebrew root for "crush" (מָחַץ, ^machats^) indicates a decisive victory. ^Quote: "Edom will become a possession, Seir will be owned by his enemies, but Israel will perform with valor."^ (Numbers 24:18). 5. Balaam's Departure After delivering his oracles, Balaam returns to his homeland. This marks the end of his involvement with Balak, the Moabite king. The narrative underscores the sovereignty of God over human intentions. ^Quote: "Then Balaam got up and returned to his homeland, and Balak also went on his way."^ (Numbers 24:25). Themes 1. Divine Inspiration and Prophecy Balaam's prophecies are portrayed as divinely inspired, emphasizing that true prophecy comes from God. In Numbers 24:2, it states, "the Spirit of God came upon him," indicating that Balaam's words are not his own but are guided by the Holy Spirit. The Hebrew word for "Spirit" here is "רוּחַ" (ruach), which signifies the breath or spirit of God, underscoring the divine origin of his message. 2. Blessing of Israel Despite Balak's desire for a curse, Balaam blesses Israel, highlighting God's sovereign choice and protection over His people. Numbers 24:9 says, "Blessed is everyone who blesses you, and cursed is everyone who curses you." This reflects the Abrahamic covenant found in Genesis 12:3, where God promises to bless those who bless Abraham's descendants. 3. The Vision of the Messiah Balaam's prophecy includes a messianic vision, foretelling a future ruler from Israel. Numbers 24:17 states, "A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel." The imagery of a "star" and "scepter" is often interpreted as a reference to the coming Messiah, with "scepter" (שֵׁבֶט, shevet) symbolizing kingship and authority. 4. Judgment on Israel's Enemies The prophecy also includes the judgment and downfall of Israel's enemies. Numbers 24:18-19 declares, "Edom will be a possession, Seir will be conquered, but Israel will perform with valor." This theme underscores God's justice and the ultimate triumph of His people over their adversaries. 5. God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness Throughout Balaam's oracles, the theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises is evident. Numbers 24:13 reflects Balaam's acknowledgment of God's control, "I could not do anything of my own accord, good or bad, to go beyond the command of the LORD." This highlights the belief that God's plans and purposes cannot be thwarted by human intentions. Prayer Points Praise God for His Sovereignty Thank God for His control over all situations and His ability to use them for His glory. Seek Assurance in God's Promises Pray for faith to trust in God's unchanging promises and His faithfulness. Ask for Eyes to See God's Work Request discernment to recognize God's hand in unexpected places and people. Celebrate the Fulfillment of Prophecy in Christ Worship Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises and the hope of the nations. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do we reconcile the prophecy of a “star out of Jacob” in Numbers 24:17 with the lack of historical or astronomical evidence for such an event? 2. Why would God use Balaam, a non-Israelite, as His mouthpiece in Numbers 24 if divine revelation was meant primarily for the Israelites? 3. What archaeological or historical sources, if any, support the existence or prophecies of Balaam as described in Numbers 24? 4. If Balaam’s initial intention was to curse Israel (Numbers 24:1), how does his eventual blessing align with the notion of free will and divine sovereignty? 5. How should we address the seeming discrepancy between Balaam’s portrayal here in Numbers 24 and other biblical texts that condemn him (e.g., 2 Peter 2:15)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Numbers 24 challenge your understanding of God's sovereignty? 2. In what ways did Balaam's change in approach before his third oracle reflect his understanding of God's intentions? 3. Reflect on the prophecy of the star and scepter in verse 17. How does this point to the future coming of Jesus? 4. What does this chapter teach us about God's protection over His chosen people? 5. In today's context, how can we apply the lesson of speaking only what God commands, as demonstrated by Balaam? 6. How does King Balak's response to Balaam's prophecies reflect human attempts to oppose God's will? 7. Why do you think God chose to bless Israel despite their previous disobedience? 8. How can you identify with Balaam's predicament of being pressured to go against God's will in your life? 9. How does the certainty of God's blessings, as demonstrated in this chapter, offer you comfort in your current situation? 10. If you were in Balaam's place, how would you handle the pressure from Balak? 11. How can you, like Balaam, align your desires and actions with God's will even when it's not popular or understood by others? 12. What does Balaam's oracles teach us about the power of words and prophecy? 13. How can we remain faithful to God's will when our decisions may cause disappointment or displeasure to others, like in Balaam's situation? 14. What are some present-day scenarios where God's blessings seem to be hidden, and how can this chapter offer hope in such circumstances? 15. How can Balaam's prophecies encourage believers in times of discouragement and despair? 16. How can the supremacy of God's will, as seen in this chapter, influence your decision-making process? 17. How does the description of Israel's prosperity and protection in Balaam's third oracle apply to God's promises to His people today? 18. How does Numbers 24 challenge your understanding of God's long-term plans and promises for His people? 19. What would you do if you were asked to do something against God's will as Balaam was? 20. How can we discern when to stand firm in our obedience to God, even when it may appear foolish to others, as demonstrated by Balaam's actions? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions