Numbers 7:4

And the LORD said to Moses,

Study Bible

The LORD said to Moses
The LORD
This phrase refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God revealed to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:14). In Hebrew, it is represented by the Tetragrammaton YHWH, which signifies God's eternal, self-existent nature. The use of "The LORD" emphasizes God's authority and His personal relationship with Israel. It is a reminder of His faithfulness and the promises He made to the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In the context of Numbers, it underscores God's direct involvement and guidance in the lives of 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. This word indicates not just the act of speaking but also the authority and intention behind the words. In the context of divine communication, it signifies the importance and reliability of the message being conveyed. God's words are not mere suggestions; they are commands and revelations that carry weight and purpose.

to Moses
Moses is a central figure in the Pentateuch, serving as the leader, prophet, and mediator between God and the Israelites. His name in Hebrew, "מֹשֶׁה" (Moshe), is believed to mean "drawn out," reflecting his rescue from the Nile River as an infant (Exodus 2:10). Moses' role is pivotal as he receives the law, guides the people through the wilderness, and intercedes on their behalf. In this verse, the mention of Moses highlights his unique position as the chosen instrument through whom God communicates His will to the nation of Israel. Moses' obedience and faithfulness are exemplary, serving as a model for leadership and devotion to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. He serves as the mediator between God and the Israelites.

3. The Tabernacle
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of Numbers 7 involves the dedication of the Tabernacle, a central place of worship and God's dwelling among His people.

4. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are in the process of establishing their worship practices and community life according to God's commands.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The broader context of Numbers involves the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, a time of testing, learning, and preparation for entering the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

God's Communication
God speaks to His people through chosen leaders. Just as He spoke to Moses, God continues to communicate His will through His Word and through spiritual leaders today.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' journey and worship practices were guided by God's specific instructions. Believers today are called to follow God's Word with the same diligence and obedience.

The Importance of Worship
The dedication of the Tabernacle highlights the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. Worship should be a priority in our lives, reflecting our relationship with God.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was a symbol of God's presence among His people. Today, believers have the assurance of God's presence through the Holy Spirit dwelling within us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's communication with Moses in Numbers 7:4 reflect His desire to guide and instruct His people today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is aligned with God's instructions, as seen in the dedication of the Tabernacle?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place among the Israelites relate to the New Testament teaching of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What can we learn from Moses' role as a mediator between God and the Israelites about the role of spiritual leaders in the church today?

5. How does the dedication of the Tabernacle in Numbers 7 point forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, as discussed in the book of Hebrews?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, which is central to the events in Numbers 7.

Leviticus 1-7
These chapters outline the various offerings and sacrifices that the Israelites were to bring to the Tabernacle, which are part of the dedication process in Numbers 7.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage reflects on the significance of the Tabernacle and the sacrificial system, pointing to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of these Old Testament practices.