Numbers 1:48

For the LORD had said to Moses:

Study Bible

For the LORD had said to Moses
For the LORD
The phrase "For the LORD" emphasizes the divine authority and origin of the instructions that follow. In Hebrew, "LORD" is represented by the tetragrammaton YHWH, which is the sacred and personal name of God, often vocalized as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal presence and covenantal faithfulness to His people. The use of "LORD" here underscores that the commands are not merely human decisions but are rooted in the divine will and purpose. It reminds us of God's sovereignty and His active role in guiding the Israelites.

had said
The phrase "had said" indicates a past communication from God to Moses. In the Hebrew text, the verb used here is "אָמַר" (amar), which means to say, speak, or command. This verb is often used in the context of divine revelation, highlighting the authoritative and binding nature of God's words. The past tense suggests that this instruction was part of an ongoing dialogue between God and Moses, reflecting the continuous guidance and direction provided by God to His chosen leader.

to Moses
Moses is the central human figure in the narrative of the Exodus and the wilderness journey. His name in Hebrew, "מֹשֶׁה" (Moshe), is traditionally understood to mean "drawn out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile River as an infant. Moses serves as the mediator between God and the Israelites, receiving divine instructions and conveying them to the people. His role as a prophet and leader is foundational to the identity and mission of Israel. The mention of Moses here reinforces his unique position as the recipient of God's revelation and the one entrusted with implementing God's commands among the people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who speaks directly to Moses, guiding the Israelites in their journey and organization.

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

3. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, organized into tribes, who are being prepared for their journey and eventual settlement in the Promised Land.

4. The Wilderness
The setting for the book of Numbers, where the Israelites are being prepared and tested by God as they journey from Egypt to Canaan.

5. The Census
The event surrounding this verse, where God commands Moses to take a census of the Israelite men able to go to war, signifying organization and preparation for future challenges.

Teaching Points

Divine Guidance
God’s instructions to Moses highlight the importance of seeking and following divine guidance in our lives. Just as Moses received direct communication from God, we are called to seek His will through prayer and Scripture.

Leadership and Obedience
Moses’ role as a leader underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands. Leaders in the church and community should model obedience and faithfulness, just as Moses did.

Preparation and Organization
The census represents preparation and organization. In our spiritual lives, we should be prepared and organized, ready to face challenges with God’s help.

Community and Responsibility
The census also emphasizes the role of community and shared responsibility. Each member of the community had a role to play, reminding us of the importance of contributing to the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Moses as a leader in Numbers 1:48 inspire you in your own leadership roles, whether in the church, family, or workplace?

2. In what ways can we seek and discern God’s guidance in our daily lives, similar to how Moses received instructions from the LORD?

3. How does the concept of preparation and organization in the census apply to our spiritual lives and readiness to face challenges?

4. What responsibilities do you have within your community or church, and how can you fulfill them faithfully, as seen in the organization of the Israelites?

5. How can the example of Moses’ obedience to God’s commands encourage you to be more obedient in your walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
The calling of Moses, where God first speaks to him from the burning bush, establishing Moses as His chosen leader.

Deuteronomy 1
Moses recounts the journey and the organization of the tribes, emphasizing obedience to God's commands.

Psalm 90
A prayer of Moses, reflecting on the brevity of life and the importance of God's guidance.

Hebrews 3
Discusses Moses' faithfulness as a servant in God's house, drawing parallels to Christ's greater faithfulness.