Numbers 14:37

those men who had brought out the bad report about the land--were struck down by a plague before the LORD.

Study Bible

those men
This phrase refers specifically to the ten spies sent by Moses to scout the Promised Land, who returned with a negative report. In the Hebrew text, the word for "men" is "אֲנָשִׁים" (anashim), which often denotes individuals of significance or responsibility. These men were leaders, chosen for their perceived wisdom and insight, yet they failed in their mission by succumbing to fear and doubt. Their failure serves as a cautionary tale about the responsibilities of leadership and the consequences of leading others astray.

who had spread
The Hebrew root for "spread" is "יָצָא" (yatsa), meaning to go out or bring forth. This implies an active dissemination of information, highlighting the deliberate nature of their actions. The spreading of the report was not a passive act but a conscious decision to influence the community. This serves as a reminder of the power of words and the responsibility that comes with sharing information, especially when it can impact the faith and morale of a community.

the bad report
The term "bad report" in Hebrew is "דִּבָּה" (dibbah), which can also mean slander or defamation. This was not merely a factual account but a distorted narrative that incited fear and rebellion among the Israelites. Theologically, this underscores the sin of bearing false witness and the destructive power of negativity and unbelief. It challenges believers to consider the impact of their words and to strive for truthfulness and faith in God's promises.

about the land
The "land" refers to Canaan, the Promised Land, which God had assured to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This land was not just a physical territory but a symbol of God's covenant and faithfulness. The spies' report contradicted God's promise, reflecting a lack of trust in His provision. Historically, Canaan was a land of great potential and abundance, yet the spies focused on the obstacles rather than the opportunities, teaching us to trust in God's vision over our limited perspective.

were struck down
The phrase "were struck down" translates from the Hebrew "מוּת" (muth), meaning to die or be put to death. This indicates a direct and severe judgment from God. The immediacy of their punishment serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness with which God views rebellion and disbelief. It emphasizes the holiness and justice of God, who cannot tolerate sin and unfaithfulness among His people.

by a plague
The Hebrew word for "plague" is "מַגֵּפָה" (magephah), which can refer to a pestilence or divine punishment. In the biblical context, plagues are often used as instruments of God's judgment, serving both as a consequence of sin and a call to repentance. This particular plague was a direct response to the spies' actions, illustrating the principle that sin has tangible consequences and that God's justice is both righteous and swift.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" signifies the presence and authority of God in the execution of judgment. In Hebrew, "לִפְנֵי יְהוָה" (lifnei Yahweh) conveys the idea of being in the sight or presence of God. This underscores the omnipresence and omniscience of God, who sees all actions and judges righteously. It serves as a reminder that all actions are ultimately accountable to God, who is the ultimate arbiter of justice and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Spies
Twelve men were sent by Moses to scout the Promised Land. Ten of these spies returned with a negative report, causing fear and rebellion among the Israelites.

2. The Bad Report
The ten spies exaggerated the challenges of conquering the land, focusing on the strength of its inhabitants and the fortified cities, which led to a lack of faith among the people.

3. The Plague
As a direct consequence of their actions, the ten spies who spread the bad report were struck down by a plague from the LORD, demonstrating God's judgment on their lack of faith and disobedience.

4. The Israelites
The community that was influenced by the negative report, leading them to grumble against Moses and Aaron and express a desire to return to Egypt.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God had promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It was a land of abundance, but the Israelites' entry was delayed due to their lack of faith.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Unbelief
Unbelief can lead to severe consequences, as seen in the fate of the ten spies. It is crucial to trust in God's promises and not be swayed by fear or doubt.

The Power of Influence
The negative report of the ten spies influenced an entire nation. Believers should be mindful of the impact their words and actions can have on others.

Faith in God's Promises
Despite challenges, believers are called to have faith in God's promises. The Israelites' failure to trust God serves as a cautionary tale for us today.

Obedience to God
Obedience is a key aspect of faith. The Israelites' disobedience resulted in a delay of God's blessings. We should strive to obey God's commands, trusting in His timing and plan.

God's Righteous Judgment
God's judgment on the ten spies serves as a reminder of His holiness and justice. It is important to live in a way that honors God and aligns with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the consequences faced by the ten spies about the importance of faith and trust in God?

2. How can we ensure that our words and actions positively influence those around us, rather than leading them away from faith?

3. In what ways can we apply the lesson of obedience from this passage to our daily lives?

4. How does the account of the Israelites' unbelief and God's judgment challenge us to examine our own faith and obedience?

5. What other biblical examples can you think of where a lack of faith led to negative consequences, and how can these examples guide us in our walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 1:26-28
This passage recounts the Israelites' refusal to enter the Promised Land due to fear, highlighting their lack of trust in God's promise.

Hebrews 3:16-19
The New Testament reflects on the Israelites' unbelief and disobedience, using it as a warning for believers to remain faithful and obedient to God.

Psalm 106:24-26
This psalm recounts the Israelites' rejection of the Promised Land and God's subsequent judgment, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's promises.