Numbers 32:28

So Moses gave orders about them to Eleazar the priest, to Joshua son of Nun, and to the family leaders of the tribes of Israel.

Study Bible

So Moses gave orders
In this phrase, we see Moses acting in his role as a leader and mediator between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "gave orders" is צָוָה (tsavah), which means to command or charge. This reflects Moses' authority and responsibility to ensure that God's will is carried out among the people. Historically, Moses is a central figure in the Exodus narrative, leading the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. His leadership is characterized by obedience to God and a deep concern for the spiritual and physical well-being of the Israelites.

about them
This phrase refers to the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who had requested to settle on the east side of the Jordan River. The context here is crucial; these tribes had approached Moses with a request to inherit land outside the Promised Land proper, which could have been seen as a lack of faith or commitment. However, their willingness to fight alongside the other tribes demonstrated their loyalty and unity with the nation of Israel. This highlights the importance of community and shared purpose in the biblical narrative.

to Eleazar the priest
Eleazar, the son of Aaron, serves as the high priest at this time. The role of the priest was to act as a mediator between God and the people, offering sacrifices and maintaining the holiness of the community. The mention of Eleazar underscores the religious and spiritual dimensions of the decision being made. It was not merely a political or military matter but one that required divine guidance and approval. The priesthood in Israel was a vital institution, ensuring that the people remained in right relationship with God.

Joshua son of Nun
Joshua is introduced here as a key leader, second only to Moses. He is being prepared to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. The mention of Joshua signifies a transition in leadership and the continuity of God's plan for His people. Joshua's faith and courage are well-documented, and his inclusion in this directive emphasizes the importance of strong, godly leadership in fulfilling God's promises.

and the family heads of the tribes of Israel
The involvement of the family heads indicates a communal decision-making process. In ancient Israel, tribal and family structures were central to social organization. The family heads represented their respective tribes and were responsible for conveying the decisions and ensuring compliance. This reflects the biblical principle of shared leadership and accountability within the community of God's people. It also highlights the importance of unity and cooperation among the tribes as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses is acting as a mediator and leader, giving instructions to ensure the tribes' commitments are honored.

2. Eleazar the Priest
The son of Aaron and the high priest at the time. Eleazar's role signifies the religious and spiritual oversight in the decision-making process.

3. Joshua son of Nun
Moses' assistant and the future leader of Israel. Joshua's involvement indicates the transition of leadership and the importance of continuity in God's plan.

4. Family Heads of the Tribes of Israel
These leaders represent the various tribes, ensuring that the decisions made are communicated and upheld within their respective tribes.

5. The Transjordan Tribes
The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who requested to settle on the east side of the Jordan River. Their request and Moses' response are central to this passage.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Leadership
Moses, Eleazar, and Joshua exemplify faithful leadership. Leaders today are called to act with integrity and ensure commitments are honored.

The Role of Accountability
The involvement of multiple leaders and family heads highlights the importance of accountability within the community of faith.

Commitment to Community
The Transjordan tribes' agreement to assist their fellow Israelites before settling in their land teaches the value of prioritizing communal responsibilities over personal desires.

Transition and Continuity
Joshua's presence signifies the importance of preparing future leaders and ensuring a smooth transition in leadership roles.

Spiritual Oversight
Eleazar's role as a priest underscores the necessity of spiritual guidance in decision-making processes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the involvement of multiple leaders in Numbers 32:28 reflect the importance of accountability in our own communities?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our commitments to others are honored, as demonstrated by the Transjordan tribes?

3. How does the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua inform our understanding of preparing future leaders in the church?

4. What role does spiritual oversight play in our decision-making processes, and how can we incorporate it more effectively?

5. How can the principles of faithfulness and community responsibility in this passage be applied to modern-day challenges within the church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 3:18-20
This passage reiterates the agreement made with the Transjordan tribes, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling their promise to help conquer the land west of the Jordan.

Joshua 22:1-6
This passage describes the fulfillment of the agreement, where Joshua commends the Transjordan tribes for their faithfulness in helping their fellow Israelites.

Hebrews 3:1-6
This New Testament passage highlights the faithfulness of Moses as a servant in God's house, drawing a parallel to the faithfulness required of believers.