Numbers 6:22

Then the LORD said to Moses,

Study Bible

The LORD said to Moses
The LORD
The term "LORD" in this context is derived from the Hebrew name for God, Yahweh, which is considered the most sacred name of God in the Hebrew Bible. It signifies the eternal, self-existent nature of God, who is unchanging and faithful to His covenant promises. In the context of Numbers, Yahweh is the covenant-keeping God who has delivered Israel from Egypt and is now guiding them through the wilderness. This name emphasizes God's authority and His intimate relationship with His people.

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 underscores the direct communication between God and Moses, highlighting the prophetic nature of Moses' leadership. This divine communication is foundational for the Israelites, as it provides them with guidance, law, and assurance of God's presence.

to Moses
Moses is a central figure in the Pentateuch, serving as the leader, prophet, and mediator between God and the Israelites. His name, derived from the Hebrew "מֹשֶׁה" (Moshe), is traditionally understood to mean "drawn out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile River as an infant. Moses' role is pivotal in the narrative of the Exodus and the giving of the Law. In Numbers, Moses continues to lead the people, receiving instructions from God to guide them in their journey and in their covenant relationship with Yahweh. His unique relationship with God is characterized by direct communication, as seen in this verse, which underscores his authority and the divine origin of his leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who communicates His will and blessings to His people through His chosen leaders.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive His laws and instructions.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are the recipients of God's laws and blessings through Moses.

Teaching Points

Divine Communication
God speaks to His people through chosen leaders. This emphasizes the importance of listening to and respecting those whom God has placed in spiritual authority.

Covenant Relationship
The LORD's communication with Moses underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Believers today are reminded of their covenant relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Role of Leadership
Moses' role as a mediator between God and the Israelites highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding and instructing the community of faith.

Obedience to God's Word
The instructions given to Moses are meant to be followed by the Israelites. Similarly, believers are called to obey God's Word as revealed in Scripture.

Blessing and Responsibility
The context of Numbers 6:22 leads into the priestly blessing, reminding us that with God's blessing comes the responsibility to live according to His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Moses as a mediator between God and the Israelites inform our understanding of Jesus as our mediator today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are listening to and respecting the spiritual leaders God has placed in our lives?

3. How does the concept of a covenant relationship with God, as seen in the Old Testament, apply to our relationship with God through Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate obedience to God's Word in our daily lives?

5. How can we balance the blessings we receive from God with the responsibilities He calls us to fulfill?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
The calling of Moses at the burning bush, where God reveals His name as Yahweh, establishing the foundation for His relationship with Moses and Israel.

Leviticus 9
The role of Moses in conveying God's instructions for worship and the priestly duties, highlighting his mediatory role.

Deuteronomy 34
The death of Moses and the transition of leadership to Joshua, emphasizing the continuity of God's guidance and blessing through His appointed leaders.