Numbers 35:10

"Speak to the Israelites and tell them: When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan,

Study Bible

Speak to the Israelites
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to Moses, emphasizing the importance of communication between God and His chosen people. The Hebrew root for "speak" is "דבר" (dabar), which implies not just casual conversation but a formal declaration or command. Historically, this reflects the theocratic nature of Israelite society, where divine instructions were central to their communal and legal life. The Israelites, as God's covenant people, were to receive and obey these instructions as part of their identity and relationship with God.

and tell them
The repetition of the command to communicate underscores the seriousness and urgency of the message. The Hebrew word "אמר" (amar) for "tell" suggests a clear and authoritative transmission of information. This reflects the role of Moses as a mediator between God and the people, a role that prefigures Christ as the ultimate mediator in the New Testament. It also highlights the importance of clarity and fidelity in conveying God's word.

When you cross the Jordan
This phrase situates the instruction in a specific geographical and historical context. The Jordan River was a significant boundary for the Israelites, marking the transition from their wilderness wanderings to the Promised Land. Crossing the Jordan symbolizes entering into the fulfillment of God's promises. Theologically, it represents a step of faith and obedience, as the Israelites had to trust God to lead them into a new phase of their covenant journey.

into the land of Canaan
Canaan is the land promised to Abraham and his descendants, a land flowing with milk and honey. The mention of Canaan here is a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises. Theologically, Canaan represents not just a physical territory but a place of spiritual inheritance and blessing. It is a type of the eternal rest and inheritance believers have in Christ. Historically, Canaan was a land with diverse cultures and religions, which posed both a challenge and an opportunity for the Israelites to live out their covenant identity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are being led by Moses to the Promised Land.

2. The Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary that the Israelites must cross to enter the land of Canaan, symbolizing a transition from the wilderness to the Promised Land.

3. The Land of Canaan
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, a place of fulfillment and rest after years of wandering in the desert.

4. Moses
The leader and prophet chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from Egypt and guide them to the Promised Land.

5. God's Command
The directive given by God to Moses to instruct the Israelites about their future in the land of Canaan, including the establishment of cities of refuge.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites are reminded of the importance of following God's instructions as they prepare to enter a new phase of their journey. This teaches us the value of obedience in our walk with God.

Transition and New Beginnings
Crossing the Jordan represents a significant transition. In our lives, we often face transitions that require faith and trust in God's promises.

God's Provision and Promise
The land of Canaan is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. This reminds us that God is faithful to His promises, and we can trust Him to provide for our needs.

Preparation for the Future
The instructions given to the Israelites include practical preparations for living in the land. We are encouraged to prepare ourselves spiritually and practically for the future God has planned for us.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance does the Jordan River hold in the journey of the Israelites, and how can this be applied to transitions in our own lives?

2. How does the promise of the land of Canaan reflect God's faithfulness, and what promises of God can we hold onto today?

3. In what ways does the concept of cities of refuge relate to the idea of finding refuge in Christ?

4. How can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands in our daily lives, especially during times of change?

5. What steps can we take to prepare ourselves for the future God has planned for us, both spiritually and practically?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 3
Describes the actual crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites, fulfilling the command given in Numbers 35:10.

Deuteronomy 19
Provides further details on the cities of refuge, which are part of the instructions given to the Israelites as they enter Canaan.

Hebrews 4
Discusses the concept of entering God's rest, drawing a parallel to the Israelites entering the Promised Land.