Numbers 31:1

And the LORD said to Moses,

Study Bible

And the LORD
The phrase "And the LORD" signifies the direct communication from Yahweh, the covenant name of God, to His chosen leader, Moses. In Hebrew, "LORD" is represented by the tetragrammaton YHWH, which is considered sacred and is often vocalized as "Yahweh." This name emphasizes God's eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. The use of "LORD" here underscores the divine authority and the seriousness of the command that follows. It is a reminder of the personal relationship between God and His people, as well as His sovereignty over the events that unfold.

said
The Hebrew word for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is a common verb used throughout the Old Testament to denote speech or communication. In this context, it indicates a direct and authoritative command from God. This is not merely a suggestion or a conversation; it is a divine directive that carries the weight of God's will. The use of "said" highlights the importance of listening to and obeying God's word, as it is the ultimate source of truth and guidance for His people.

to Moses
Moses, whose name in Hebrew is "מֹשֶׁה" (Moshe), is the central human figure in the Pentateuch, chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. His role as a prophet and leader is crucial, as he acts as the intermediary between God and the people of Israel. The mention of Moses here emphasizes his unique position and responsibility to convey God's commands to the Israelites. Historically, Moses is a revered figure, and his leadership is characterized by obedience, humility, and faithfulness to God's instructions. This phrase reminds us of the importance of godly leadership and the responsibility of those who are called to guide others in accordance with God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His promises. In this context, He is the divine authority giving instructions to Moses.

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

3. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who are in the wilderness journey towards the Promised Land. They are the recipients of God's laws and commands through Moses.

4. Midianites (implied in the context)
A group of people who had previously led Israel into sin through idolatry and immorality, as seen in earlier chapters of Numbers.

5. The Wilderness
The setting for much of the Israelites' journey, representing both physical and spiritual challenges as they learn to trust and obey God.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority and Obedience
God speaks directly to Moses, highlighting the importance of listening to and obeying God's commands. As believers, we are called to seek God's guidance through His Word and be obedient to His instructions.

God's Justice
The context of Numbers 31:1 involves God's judgment on the Midianites for their role in leading Israel into sin. This reminds us of God's holiness and justice, and the seriousness of sin.

Leadership and Responsibility
Moses' role as a leader involves receiving and implementing God's commands. Christian leaders today are called to be faithful stewards of God's Word, guiding others in truth and righteousness.

Spiritual Warfare
The battle against the Midianites can be seen as a representation of the spiritual battles believers face. We are called to stand firm in faith, resisting sin and temptation.

Community Accountability
The Israelites' collective responsibility to address sin within their community underscores the importance of accountability and purity within the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the authority of God in Numbers 31:1 challenge us to respond to His Word in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the account of the Midianites in Numbers 31 connect with the concept of spiritual warfare in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principles of leadership and responsibility seen in Moses' life to our roles within our families, churches, and communities?

4. What lessons can we learn from God's justice in dealing with the Midianites that apply to our understanding of sin and repentance today?

5. How does the concept of community accountability in Numbers 31 encourage us to support and hold each other accountable in our walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 17
The Amalekites' attack on Israel and God's command to Moses to remember and eventually deal with them, showing a pattern of divine justice against those who oppose God's people.

Numbers 25
The sin of Israel with the Moabite women and the Midianites, which led to a plague and God's command for Israel to treat the Midianites as enemies.

Deuteronomy 32
The Song of Moses, which recounts God's faithfulness and justice, including His dealings with the nations surrounding Israel.