Numbers 11:24

So Moses went out and relayed to the people the words of the LORD, and he gathered seventy of the elders of the people and had them stand around the tent.

Study Bible

So Moses went out
The phrase indicates Moses' immediate obedience to God's command. The Hebrew root for "went out" is "yatsa," which often signifies a purposeful departure. Moses' action reflects his role as a faithful servant and leader, emphasizing the importance of obedience in leadership. Historically, Moses' movements were significant to the Israelites, as they often marked the beginning of divine action or revelation.

and told the people
This phrase underscores the role of Moses as a mediator between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "told" is "dabar," which means to speak or declare. It highlights the importance of communication in leadership and the responsibility of conveying God's messages accurately. Moses' communication with the people is a model of transparency and faithfulness in delivering God's word.

the words of the LORD
Here, "the words of the LORD" signifies divine instruction or command. The Hebrew term "dabar" is again used, emphasizing the authority and sacredness of God's communication. This phrase reminds us of the power and reliability of God's word, which is central to the life and guidance of His people. It also reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God speaks, and His people are expected to listen and obey.

He gathered seventy of the elders
The gathering of "seventy of the elders" is significant both numerically and symbolically. The number seventy often represents completeness or perfection in biblical terms. The elders were leaders within the community, chosen for their wisdom and experience. This gathering signifies a shared leadership model, where Moses is supported by a council, reflecting the communal and organized structure of Israelite society.

of the people
This phrase indicates that the elders were representatives of the broader community. The Hebrew word "am" for "people" denotes a collective identity, emphasizing the unity and shared responsibility among the Israelites. It highlights the importance of involving community leaders in decision-making processes, ensuring that the needs and voices of the people are considered.

and had them stand around the tent
The "tent" refers to the Tent of Meeting, a sacred space where God communicated with Moses. The act of having the elders "stand around" the tent signifies their readiness to receive God's Spirit and their role in supporting Moses. The Hebrew root "amad" for "stand" implies a position of readiness and service. This setting underscores the holiness of the moment and the preparation required to receive divine empowerment. The Tent of Meeting serves as a focal point for God's presence, reminding us of the importance of sacred spaces in worship and community life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in this passage, Moses is the leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. In this context, Moses is acting as a mediator between God and the people.

2. The Seventy Elders
These are leaders among the Israelites chosen to assist Moses in governing and leading the people. Their selection signifies a shared leadership model and the distribution of responsibility.

3. The Tent
This refers to the Tent of Meeting, a sacred place where Moses would communicate with God. It symbolizes God's presence among His people and serves as a focal point for divine instruction and guidance.

4. The People of Israel
The larger community of Israelites who are journeying through the wilderness. They are the recipients of God's promises and the ones who benefit from the leadership structure being established.

5. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is actively involved in guiding and providing for His people. His instructions to Moses demonstrate His ongoing care and governance.

Teaching Points

Shared Leadership
God’s design for leadership often involves a team rather than a single individual. This passage encourages the practice of shared leadership within the church and community.

Divine Guidance
Just as Moses received instructions from God, believers today are encouraged to seek God’s guidance through prayer and Scripture in their leadership roles.

Community Involvement
The involvement of the seventy elders highlights the importance of engaging the community in decision-making processes and leadership roles.

Obedience to God’s Word
Moses’ obedience in communicating God’s words to the people serves as a model for believers to faithfully convey God’s truth in their lives.

Empowerment of Others
Empowering others to lead and serve is a biblical principle that strengthens the community and ensures the sustainability of leadership.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the appointment of the seventy elders in Numbers 11:24 reflect God’s plan for leadership within the community of believers?

2. In what ways can the principle of shared leadership seen in this passage be applied in your local church or community?

3. How does Moses’ role as a mediator between God and the people in this passage point to the ultimate mediation of Christ in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to seek God’s guidance in your leadership roles, as Moses did?

5. How can you empower others in your community or church to take on leadership roles, following the example set in Numbers 11:24?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 18
This chapter describes Jethro's advice to Moses to appoint leaders to help him judge the people, which parallels the delegation of authority seen in Numbers 11:24.

Acts 6
The appointment of the seven deacons in the early church to assist the apostles reflects a similar principle of shared leadership and delegation of responsibilities.

1 Samuel 10
The anointing of Saul and the gathering of the people at Mizpah show another instance of God using leaders to guide His people.