Numbers 27:18

And the LORD replied to Moses, "Take Joshua son of Nun, a man with the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him.

Study Bible

So the LORD said to Moses
This phrase underscores the direct communication between God and Moses, a hallmark of Moses' leadership. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. This divine instruction highlights the theocratic leadership model where God directly guides His chosen leaders. Historically, this reflects the unique relationship Moses had with God, serving as a mediator for the Israelites.

Take Joshua son of Nun
The name "Joshua" is derived from the Hebrew "Yehoshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." This is significant as Joshua is a type of Christ, prefiguring Jesus, whose name in Hebrew is the same. Joshua's lineage as the "son of Nun" roots him in the tribe of Ephraim, one of Joseph's sons, which is important for understanding the tribal dynamics and leadership roles within Israel. Joshua's selection is a divine appointment, not based on human merit but on God's sovereign choice.

a man in whom is the Spirit
This phrase indicates that Joshua is not only chosen by God but also empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Hebrew word for "Spirit" is "Ruach," which can mean breath, wind, or spirit, signifying life and divine empowerment. This is a critical point in understanding biblical leadership; it is not merely about human ability but about being filled with God's Spirit. This empowerment is essential for the task ahead, as Joshua will lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.

and lay your hand on him
The act of laying hands is a significant biblical gesture symbolizing the transfer of authority and blessing. In Hebrew culture, this act was often used in ordination and blessing, signifying the passing of responsibility and the conferring of God's grace and power. This physical act serves as a public endorsement of Joshua's new role, ensuring that the people recognize and accept his leadership. It also reflects the continuity of God's plan, as Moses' leadership is passed on to Joshua, ensuring that God's purposes for Israel continue unimpeded.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who guides and directs His people.

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

3. Joshua son of Nun
A faithful servant and military leader, chosen by God to succeed Moses and lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.

4. The Spirit
Refers to the Spirit of God, indicating divine empowerment and wisdom given to Joshua.

5. Laying on of Hands
A symbolic act of transferring authority and blessing, signifying God's choice and empowerment of Joshua.

Teaching Points

Divine Selection and Empowerment
God chooses and empowers leaders according to His purpose. Joshua was chosen because he was a man "in whom is the Spirit," highlighting the importance of spiritual readiness and divine calling.

The Role of Mentorship
Moses' role in preparing Joshua underscores the importance of mentorship in spiritual leadership. Leaders should invest in the next generation, preparing them for future responsibilities.

Symbolism of the Laying on of Hands
This act symbolizes the transfer of authority and blessing. It is a reminder that leadership in God's kingdom is not self-appointed but divinely ordained and recognized by the community.

Continuity of God's Plan
The transition from Moses to Joshua illustrates the continuity of God's plan. Despite changes in leadership, God's purposes remain steadfast, and His Spirit continues to guide His people.

The Importance of the Holy Spirit
The presence of the Spirit in Joshua's life was crucial for his leadership. Believers today are reminded of the necessity of the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment in fulfilling God's calling.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the selection of Joshua as Moses' successor demonstrate God's sovereignty in leadership?

2. In what ways can we identify and mentor future leaders within our own communities, following the example of Moses and Joshua?

3. What significance does the laying on of hands have in both the Old and New Testaments, and how can this practice be applied in the church today?

4. How does the presence of the Holy Spirit in Joshua's life encourage us to seek the Spirit's guidance in our own lives and ministries?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a transition in leadership. How did you see God's hand at work during that transition, and what lessons can you apply from Joshua's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 34:9
This verse confirms that Joshua was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him, showing the continuity of leadership and divine empowerment.

Acts 6:6
The laying on of hands is also seen in the New Testament, where the apostles laid hands on the seven chosen to serve, indicating a transfer of authority and blessing.

1 Timothy 4:14
Paul reminds Timothy of the gift given to him through prophecy and the laying on of hands, emphasizing the importance of spiritual gifts and leadership.