Numbers 26:1

After the plague had ended, the LORD said to Moses and Eleazar son of Aaron the priest,

Study Bible

After the plague
This phrase sets the context for the events that follow, indicating a significant transition point for the Israelites. The "plague" refers to the divine judgment that occurred due to Israel's sin with the Moabite women and the worship of Baal of Peor, as described in Numbers 25. The Hebrew word for "plague" is "מַגֵּפָה" (magefah), which often denotes a severe affliction or calamity sent by God as a form of punishment or correction. This moment marks a period of cleansing and renewal for the Israelites, emphasizing God's justice and mercy. Historically, plagues were seen as both a divine response to sin and an opportunity for repentance and restoration.

the LORD
The use of "the LORD" here is significant, as it translates the Hebrew "יהוה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God. This name is deeply rooted in the identity of God as the eternal, self-existent One who is faithful to His promises. It underscores the personal relationship between God and His people, Israel. In the context of Numbers, it highlights God's continued guidance and presence with the Israelites despite their previous disobedience. Theologically, it reassures believers of God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His covenant people.

said to Moses
The phrase "said to Moses" indicates direct communication from God to His chosen leader. Moses, whose name in Hebrew is "מֹשֶׁה" (Moshe), is a central figure in the Pentateuch, serving as the mediator between God and Israel. This communication underscores Moses' role as a prophet and leader, chosen to guide the people according to God's will. Historically, Moses is seen as a type of Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate mediator between God and humanity. This phrase reminds believers of the importance of obedience to God's revealed word through His appointed leaders.

and Eleazar son of Aaron the priest
Eleazar, whose name means "God has helped," is identified as the son of Aaron, the first high priest. This highlights the continuity of the priestly line and the importance of the priesthood in Israel's religious life. The mention of Eleazar signifies a transition in leadership, as he assumes greater responsibility following the death of his father, Aaron. The priesthood, established by God, serves as a means of maintaining holiness and facilitating worship among the people. In a broader theological context, this points to the necessity of intercession and the role of Christ as our ultimate High Priest. Historically, the priesthood was central to Israel's identity and worship, emphasizing the need for mediation between a holy God and His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks to Moses and Eleazar, guiding them in leadership and decision-making.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

3. Eleazar
The son of Aaron, serving as the high priest after Aaron's death, responsible for spiritual leadership and priestly duties.

4. The Plague
A divine judgment that had recently occurred, serving as a backdrop for the census that God commands.

5. Israelite Camp
The setting where the Israelites are encamped, preparing to enter the Promised Land after wandering in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
God is sovereign over life and death, as seen in the plague. His judgments are just and serve as a call to holiness.

Leadership and Responsibility
Moses and Eleazar are examples of faithful leadership. God entrusts leaders with the responsibility to guide His people according to His will.

Transition and New Beginnings
The census marks a transition from the old generation to the new, reminding us of the importance of preparing the next generation for God's promises.

Obedience and Consequences
The context of the plague underscores the consequences of disobedience. We are called to live in obedience to God’s commands.

Community and Accountability
The census reflects the communal nature of Israel’s identity. Believers today are part of a spiritual community, accountable to one another and to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of the plague in Numbers 26:1 inform our understanding of God's holiness and justice?

2. In what ways can we see the importance of godly leadership in the roles of Moses and Eleazar, and how can we apply this to leadership in the church today?

3. What lessons can we learn from the transition between generations in Israel, and how can we apply these lessons to mentoring and discipling the next generation?

4. How does the concept of a census in Numbers 26 relate to the idea of being counted among God's people today, and what does this mean for our identity in Christ?

5. Reflecting on the consequences of disobedience seen in the plague, how can we cultivate a lifestyle of obedience and accountability within our Christian communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The incident of the golden calf, which also resulted in a plague, showing a pattern of Israel's disobedience and God's judgment.

Numbers 1
The first census of Israel, which parallels this second census, highlighting the transition from the old generation to the new.

Psalm 90
A reflection on the brevity of life and the importance of numbering our days, relevant to the context of the census.

1 Corinthians 10
Paul’s warning to the Corinthians using Israel’s history as an example, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience.