God is not a man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? God is not a manThis phrase emphasizes the transcendence and otherness of God compared to humanity. In Hebrew, the word for "man" is "ish," which denotes a human being with all the limitations and imperfections inherent in human nature. This distinction sets the stage for understanding God's divine nature, which is free from human frailties and moral failings. Historically, this assertion would have been particularly poignant in the ancient Near Eastern context, where gods were often depicted with human-like flaws and caprices. The Bible consistently portrays God as holy and perfect, distinct from the flawed deities of surrounding cultures. that He should lie
The Hebrew word for "lie" is "kazav," which means to deceive or speak falsely. This phrase underscores God's absolute truthfulness and reliability. Unlike humans, who may lie or deceive for personal gain or out of weakness, God's nature is inherently truthful. This is a foundational aspect of God's character, as seen throughout Scripture, where God's words and promises are always fulfilled. In a world where deceit is common, this assurance of God's truthfulness provides a solid foundation for faith and trust. nor a son of man
The term "son of man" (Hebrew: "ben adam") is a Semitic expression that emphasizes human nature, mortality, and the limitations associated with being human. This phrase reinforces the idea that God is not subject to human weaknesses or the need to change His mind. In the broader biblical narrative, "son of man" is also a title used for Jesus, highlighting His humanity. However, in this context, it serves to contrast God's divine nature with human imperfection. that He should change His mind
The Hebrew word for "change His mind" is "nacham," which can mean to repent, relent, or change one's mind. This phrase highlights God's immutability—His unchanging nature. Unlike humans, who may change their minds due to new information or emotional shifts, God's decisions and promises are steadfast. This immutability is a source of comfort and assurance for believers, as it means that God's promises are reliable and His character is consistent. Does He speak and not act?
This rhetorical question emphasizes God's faithfulness and the certainty that His words will be fulfilled. The Hebrew verb "dabar" (to speak) is often used in the context of God's creative and authoritative word. When God speaks, it is not merely communication but an act of creation and decree. This assurance is echoed throughout Scripture, where God's spoken word is powerful and effective, bringing about His will and purposes. Does He promise and not fulfill?
The Hebrew word for "promise" is "amar," which means to say or declare. This phrase underscores the reliability of God's promises. In the biblical narrative, God's promises are covenants—binding agreements that He faithfully upholds. The fulfillment of God's promises is a recurring theme in Scripture, providing believers with confidence in God's faithfulness. This assurance is particularly significant in the context of the Israelites, who were often reminded of God's promises to their forefathers and His faithfulness in fulfilling them. Persons / Places / Events 1. GodThe central figure in this verse, emphasizing His divine nature and attributes of truthfulness and faithfulness. 2. BalaamA prophet who is speaking these words under divine inspiration, despite being hired by Balak to curse Israel. 3. BalakThe king of Moab who sought to curse Israel through Balaam, fearing their strength and numbers. 4. IsraelThe nation chosen by God, whom Balak fears and seeks to curse, but whom God has blessed. 5. MoabThe region ruled by Balak, representing opposition to God's people in this account. Teaching Points God's ImmutabilityGod’s nature is unchanging. Unlike humans, He does not lie or change His mind. This provides believers with a foundation of trust and security in His promises. Divine FaithfulnessGod’s promises are sure and steadfast. When He speaks, He acts. This encourages believers to rely on His word and trust in His faithfulness. Contrast with Human NatureHumans are prone to change and deceit, but God is wholly other. Recognizing this contrast helps believers to place their ultimate trust in God rather than in fallible human beings. Encouragement in TrialsIn times of uncertainty or difficulty, believers can find comfort in the assurance that God’s promises will be fulfilled, providing hope and strength. Call to Reflect God’s CharacterAs followers of Christ, believers are called to emulate God’s truthfulness and faithfulness in their own lives, striving to be people of integrity. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding God's unchanging nature impact your daily trust in Him? 2. In what ways can you apply the truth of God's faithfulness to a current situation in your life? 3. How does the contrast between God's nature and human nature challenge you in your relationships with others? 4. Can you identify a promise from God that you are holding onto? How does Numbers 23:19 encourage you in this? 5. How can you reflect God's truthfulness and faithfulness in your interactions with others this week? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 15:29This verse reiterates that God does not lie or change His mind, reinforcing His unchanging nature. Titus 1:2Highlights God's inability to lie, underscoring the trustworthiness of His promises. Hebrews 6:18Emphasizes the impossibility of God lying, providing believers with strong encouragement to hold onto hope. James 1:17Describes God as unchanging, with no variation or shadow of turning, aligning with the theme of divine constancy. Isaiah 55:11Illustrates that God's word accomplishes what He desires, affirming His faithfulness to His promises. People Aram, Balaam, Balak, Jacob, Moses, ZipporPlaces Aram, Bamoth-baal, Egypt, Moab, Peor, PisgahTopics Act, Change, Changed, Confirm, Effect, Fulfil, Fulfill, Lie, Lieth, Mind, Mouth, Promise, Purpose, Repent, Repenteth, Speak, Spoke, SpokenDictionary of Bible Themes Numbers 23:19 1035 God, faithfulness
1105 God, power of
1120 God, repentance of
1150 God, truth of
1155 God, truthfulness
1160 God, unchangeable
1210 God, human descriptions
1305 God, activity of
1340 consistency
1461 truth, nature of
2221 Christ, Son of Man
5020 human nature
5036 mind, of God
5167 mouth
5329 guarantee
5467 promises, divine
5973 unreliability
8214 confidence, basis of
8715 dishonesty, and God Numbers 23:18-26 1421 oracles Numbers 23:19-20 8112 certainty Library An Unfulfilled Desire
'... Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!'--NUM. xxiii. 10. '... Balaam also the son of Beor they slew with the sword.'--NUM. xiii. 8. Ponder these two pictures. Take the first scene. A prophet, who knows God and His will, is standing on the mountain top, and as he looks down over the valley beneath him, with its acacia-trees and swift river, there spread the tents of Israel. He sees them, and knows that they are 'a people whom the Lord hath blessed.' Brought there …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScripturePhilo of Alexandria, the Rabbis, and the Gospels - the Final Development of Hellenism in Its Relation to Rabbinism and the Gospel According to St. John.
It is strange how little we know of the personal history of the greatest of uninspired Jewish writers of old, though he occupied so prominent a position in his time. [173] Philo was born in Alexandria, about the year 20 before Christ. He was a descendant of Aaron, and belonged to one of the wealthiest and most influential families among the Jewish merchant-princes of Egypt. His brother was the political head of that community in Alexandria, and he himself on one occasion represented his co-religionists, …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah Balaam's Wish Num 23:10
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John Newton—Olney Hymns The Night of Miracles on the Lake of Gennesaret
THE last question of the Baptist, spoken in public, had been: Art Thou the Coming One, or look we for another?' It had, in part, been answered, as the murmur had passed through the ranks: This One is truly the Prophet, the Coming One!' So, then, they had no longer to wait, nor to look for another! And this Prophet' was Israel's long expected Messiah. What this would imply to the people, in the intensity and longing of the great hope which, for centuries, nay, far beyond the time of Ezra, had swayed …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah The Nature of Spiritual Hunger
Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness Matthew 5:6 We are now come to the fourth step of blessedness: Blessed are they that hunger'. The words fall into two parts: a duty implied; a promise annexed. A duty implied: Blessed are they that hunger'. Spiritual hunger is a blessed hunger. What is meant by hunger? Hunger is put for desire (Isaiah 26:9). Spiritual hunger is the rational appetite whereby the soul pants after that which it apprehends most suitable and proportional …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 Memoir of John Bunyan
THE FIRST PERIOD. THIS GREAT MAN DESCENDED FROM IGNOBLE PARENTS--BORN IN POVERTY--HIS EDUCATION AND EVIL HABITS--FOLLOWS HIS FATHER'S BUSINESS AS A BRAZIER--ENLISTS FOR A SOLDIER--RETURNS FROM THE WARS AND OBTAINS AN AMIABLE, RELIGIOUS WIFE--HER DOWER. 'We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.'--2 Cor 4:7 'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.'--Isaiah 55:8. 'Though ye have lien among the …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 How those are to be Admonished who Abstain not from the Sins which they Bewail, and those Who, Abstaining from Them, Bewail them Not.
(Admonition 31.) Differently to be admonished are those who lament their transgressions, and yet forsake them not, and those who forsake them, and yet lament them not. For those who lament their transgressions and yet forsake them not are to be admonished to learn to consider anxiously that they cleanse themselves in vain by their weeping, if they wickedly defile themselves in their living, seeing that the end for which they wash themselves in tears is that, when clean, they may return to filth. …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great Fragrant Spices from the Mountains of Myrrh. "Thou Art all Fair, My Love; There is no Spot in Thee. " --Song of Solomon iv. 7.
FRAGRANT SPICES FROM THE MOUNTAINS OF MYRRH. HOW marvellous are these words! "Thou art all fair, My love; there is no spot in thee." The glorious Bridegroom is charmed with His spouse, and sings soft canticles of admiration. When the bride extols her Lord there is no wonder, for He deserves it well, and in Him there is room for praise without possibility of flattery. But does He who is wiser than Solomon condescend to praise this sunburnt Shulamite? Tis even so, for these are His own words, and were …
Charles Hadden Spurgeon—Till He Come Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of the Exceeding Mercy of God in Christ, to his Poor Servant, John Bunyan
In this my relation of the merciful working of God upon my soul, it will not be amiss, if in the first place, I do in a few words give you a hint of my pedigree, and manner of bringing up; that thereby the goodness and bounty of God towards me, may be the more advanced and magnified before the sons of men. 2. For my descent then, it was, as is well known by many, of a low and inconsiderable generation; my father's house being of that rank that is meanest, and most despised of all the families in …
John Bunyan—Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Christ a Complete Saviour:
OR, THE INTERCESSION OF CHRIST, AND WHO ARE PRIVILEGED IN IT. BY JOHN BUNYAN Advertisement by the Editor. However strange it may appear, it is a solemn fact, that the heart of man, unless prepared by a sense of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, rejects Christ as a complete Saviour. The pride of human nature will not suffer it to fall, as helpless and utterly undone, into the arms of Divine mercy. Man prefers a partial Saviour; one who had done so much, that, with the sinner's aid, the work might be …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Of the Decrees of God.
Eph. i. 11.--"Who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will."--Job xxiii. 13. "He is in one mind, and who can turn him? and what his soul desireth, even that he doeth." Having spoken something before of God, in his nature and being and properties, we come, in the next place, to consider his glorious majesty, as he stands in some nearer relation to his creatures, the work of his hands. For we must conceive the first rise of all things in the world to be in this self-being, the first conception …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning The Heavenly Footman; Or, a Description of the Man that Gets to Heaven:
TOGETHER WITH THE WAY HE RUNS IN, THE MARKS HE GOES BY; ALSO, SOME DIRECTIONS HOW TO RUN SO AS TO OBTAIN. 'And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain: escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.'--Genesis 19:17. London: Printed for John Marshall, at the Bible in Gracechurch Street, 1698. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. About forty years ago a gentleman, in whose company I had commenced my …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
OR, A DISCOURSE OF THE RIGHTEOUS MAN'S DESIRES. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR As the tree is known by its fruit, so is the state of a man's heart known by his desires. The desires of the righteous are the touchstone or standard of Christian sincerity--the evidence of the new birth--the spiritual barometer of faith and grace--and the springs of obedience. Christ and him crucified is the ground of all our hopes--the foundation upon which all our desires after God and holiness are built--and the root …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Thirdly, for Thy Actions.
1. Do no evil, though thou mightest; for God will not suffer the least sin, without bitter repentance, to escape unpunished. Leave not undone any good that thou canst. But do nothing without a calling, nor anything in thy calling, till thou hast first taken counsel at God's word (1 Sam. xxx. 8) of its lawfulness, and pray for his blessings upon thy endeavour; and then do it in the name of God, with cheerfulness of heart, committing the success to him, in whose power it is to bless with his grace …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety The Unchangeableness of God
The next attribute is God's unchangeableness. I am Jehovah, I change not.' Mal 3:3. I. God is unchangeable in his nature. II. In his decree. I. Unchangeable in his nature. 1. There is no eclipse of his brightness. 2. No period put to his being. [1] No eclipse of his brightness. His essence shines with a fixed lustre. With whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.' James 1:17. Thou art the same.' Psa 102:27. All created things are full of vicissitudes. Princes and emperors are subject to …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity Numbers
Like the last part of Exodus, and the whole of Leviticus, the first part of Numbers, i.-x. 28--so called,[1] rather inappropriately, from the census in i., iii., (iv.), xxvi.--is unmistakably priestly in its interests and language. Beginning with a census of the men of war (i.) and the order of the camp (ii.), it devotes specific attention to the Levites, their numbers and duties (iii., iv.). Then follow laws for the exclusion of the unclean, v. 1-4, for determining the manner and amount of restitution …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Numbers 23:19 NIVNumbers 23:19 NLTNumbers 23:19 ESVNumbers 23:19 NASBNumbers 23:19 KJV
Numbers 23:19 Commentaries
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