Numbers 22:35

But the angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but you are to speak only what I tell you." So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.

Study Bible

But the angel of the LORD
The phrase "angel of the LORD" in Hebrew is "מַלְאַךְ יְהוָה" (mal'ak YHWH). This term often refers to a divine messenger who acts on behalf of God, sometimes indistinguishable from God Himself. In the context of Numbers 22, the angel of the LORD serves as a divine intervention in Balaam's journey, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the seriousness of His commands. Historically, the presence of the angel signifies a direct communication from God, underscoring the importance of the message being delivered.

said to Balaam
The act of speaking to Balaam highlights the personal nature of God's communication. Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, is directly addressed by God, illustrating that God's reach and authority extend beyond the boundaries of Israel. This interaction is a reminder of God's omnipresence and His ability to use anyone to fulfill His purposes.

Go with the men
This directive, "Go with the men," shows a shift in God's instructions to Balaam. Initially, Balaam was told not to go, but now he is permitted. This change reflects God's dynamic interaction with human free will and circumstances. It also serves as a test of Balaam's obedience and discernment, as he must navigate the tension between divine permission and divine intention.

but you must speak only what I tell you
The command to "speak only what I tell you" underscores the importance of fidelity to God's word. Balaam is reminded that, despite being allowed to accompany the men, his ultimate allegiance is to God's message. This phrase serves as a caution against the temptation to alter or manipulate God's words for personal gain or favor, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture regarding the integrity of prophecy.

So Balaam went with the princes of Balak
Balaam's decision to go "with the princes of Balak" signifies his compliance with God's directive, albeit with a heart that is later revealed to be conflicted. The mention of "princes of Balak" situates the narrative within the political and cultural context of the time, where alliances and curses were tools of power. Balaam's journey with these princes sets the stage for the unfolding drama of God's protection over Israel and His ultimate control over the nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet or diviner who is summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. Balaam is known for his encounter with the Angel of the LORD and his talking donkey.

2. Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who appears to Balaam on his journey to Moab. The Angel of the LORD initially opposes Balaam's path but later instructs him on what to do.

3. Balak
The king of Moab who fears the Israelites due to their numbers and seeks Balaam's help to curse them.

4. Moab
A region east of the Jordan River, where Balak rules and where Balaam is summoned to curse the Israelites.

5. Israelites
The people of God, who are journeying to the Promised Land and are seen as a threat by Balak due to their large numbers and recent victories.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Word
Balaam's account emphasizes the importance of obeying God's instructions, even when they conflict with personal desires or external pressures.

God's Sovereignty
The account demonstrates God's control over events and His ability to use even reluctant or misguided individuals to fulfill His purposes.

Spiritual Discernment
Balaam's encounter with the Angel of the LORD highlights the need for spiritual discernment and the dangers of pursuing personal gain over God's will.

The Power of Blessing and Cursing
The account illustrates the spiritual reality and power behind blessings and curses, reminding believers of the importance of aligning their words with God's will.

The Consequences of Greed
Balaam's willingness to entertain Balak's request for financial gain serves as a warning against the dangers of greed and compromising one's integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Balaam's interaction with the Angel of the LORD in Numbers 22:35 illustrate the importance of aligning our actions with God's will?

2. In what ways does the account of Balaam and Balak reflect the promise made to Abraham in Genesis 12:3, and how can this promise encourage us today?

3. How can Balaam's account serve as a warning against the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of spiritual integrity, as mentioned in 2 Peter 2:15?

4. What lessons can we learn from Balaam's experience about the power of words, particularly in the context of blessings and curses?

5. How does the account of Balaam in Numbers 22:35 challenge us to develop spiritual discernment in our own lives, and what practical steps can we take to grow in this area?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to Abraham that those who bless him will be blessed, and those who curse him will be cursed. This connects to Balaam's situation, as he is asked to curse the Israelites, descendants of Abraham.

2 Peter 2:15
Peter references Balaam as an example of someone who loved the wages of wickedness, highlighting the moral and spiritual dangers of Balaam's actions.

Revelation 2:14
Balaam is mentioned in the context of leading others into sin, showing the long-term impact of his actions and teachings.