Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers, Chapter 32

Review & Intro:  In Numbers Chapter 21, Israel captured the Amorites' land of Jazer & Gilead. Now, in Numbers 32, the nation is poised to cross the Jordan River and begin taking the land of Canaan that the Lord had promised to Abraham and his descendants.  Think of how exciting it must have been to be so close to the land of milk and honey that had been promised for so many years!  Deuteronomy states they will live in cities they didn't build and crops they didn't plant.  Yet, Gilead ... is a fertile plot of land east of the Jordan River and one that will be great for the many possessions of these men and their families - the sons of Gad and the sons of Reuben just want to "settle" and "forfeit" the promised land - Have you ever settled for "good" when God had the "best" to come?  Where do we end up many times when we choose our desire before waiting on fulfilling God's desire in our lives?  For these families, they will end up mixing with the peoples around them and worshiping their gods; they will fall away from their faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and eventually they will end up being taken captive by the king of Assyria. (1 Chronicles 5:25,26) .....

Numbers Chapter 32 - Observation Questions

1.  What did the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad possess? vs.1a

2.  What did they think when they saw the land of Jazer and the land of Gilead? vs.1b

3.  Who did they talk to about receiving that land for themselves and their possessions? vs. 2

4.  What land (which had already been conquered) did they speak specifically about to Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leadership? vs. 3 - Name 9 places.

5.  What made this land seem so perfect in their eyes for their needs? vs. 4

6.  They asked if they could remain on this side of the Jordan and not cross over with everyone else to the land God had promised to give them. (vs.5)  How did Moses respond to their request? vs. 6

7.  Moses knew this would be a discouragement to the rest of the sons of Israel who still had more of the journey and warfare ahead of them. (vs.7) ... What did Moses compare this request to? vs. 8

8.  We need to review the situation at Kadesh-barnea.  That was when the 12 went to spy out the land.  Ten came back and discouraged everyone by the size of the people in the land, saying they were "grasshoppers" in their eyes.  Only Caleb and Joshua had faith to say they would overcome and God would be with them.  As a result, the people listened to the negative report rather than the positive one.  Instead of possessing the land at that time, they were 40 years of wandering in the wilderness.  The older generation has died off and now the younger generation is acting the same way and Moses is not happy about it.  (vs.8-13) ..... What did Moses say would happen if they turned away as their father's had done? vs.14,15 -

9.  The sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad (and the sons of the half tribe of Manessah too - see vs.33) ... said they would build sheepfolds for their livestock and cities for their little ones on this side of the Jordan, but they would "be armed and ready" to go before the sons of Israel until they all had their places on the other side of the Jordan. (vs.16-17) ... What did they promise not to do until every one of the sons of Israel had possessed his inheritance on the other side of the Jordan and beyond? vs. 18,19

10.  Moses agreed with them that they could be free of obligation toward the Lord and toward Israel to possess the land on this side of the Jordan under several circumstances.  What were they? vs.20-22 - Name 3 things

11.  If they did not do these things, what could they be sure of? vs. 23

12.  The sons of Gad and the sons of Reuben agreed to build the cities for their little ones (vs. 24) and the sheepfolds for their sheep so that they could all remain in Gideon, while they themselves would be dressed for war to cross over the Jordan in the presence of the Lord to battle for their brothers. (vs.25-27) ...

13.  So Moses gave commands to Eleazar the priest, Joshua, and the heads of the father's households of the tribes of Israel a commandment that if the sons of Gad and the sons of Reuben did "arm for battle", "cross over the Jordan with them", and "the land as subdued before them", they were to give the land of Gilead to them for their possession.(vs.28-29)...  If they did not do these things, what were they to be sure and do for them? vs. 30

14.  What did the sons of Gad and the sons of Reuben answering concerning this? vs. 31,32 -

15.  What lands did Moses give to the sons of Gad, the sons of Reuben, and the 1/2 tribe of Joseph's son Manasseh? vs. 33

16.  What cities did the sons of Gad build and fortify along with sheepfolds for their sheep? vs.34-36 - Name 8 cities

17.  What cities did the sons of Reuben build? vs. 37-38 - Name 6 given

18.  Who did Machir, son of Manasseh, take possession away from and where was it? vs. 39

19.  What was given to Machir, son of Manasseh, to live in, by Moses? vs. 40

20.  What did Jair, son of Manasseh, call the towns he took? vs. 41

21.  What did Nobah name Kenath and its villages? vs. 42

Application:

22.  The sons of Rueben and the sons of Gad as well as the half-tribe of Manesseh saw the well-watered land for their flocks and wanted that more than anything that could possibly be on the other side of the Jordan.  They settled and compromised for what seemed good to them.  God had land ready to bless them with in the land of Jordan.  What promise went with the land of Canaan?

• Deuteronomy 12:10 -

23.  They would not experience this safety being in the land they choose for themselves.  In time, being so close to the land of Moab, they began to worship their gods and drift from the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  What Father Jacob (Israel) had said about Reuben, the firstborn, turned out to be true of his descendants as well.  Comment on the prophecy given him.

• Genesis 49:4 -

24.  Eventually, their descendants paid for their selfishness.  They played the harlot with the gods of the nations around them and were the first to be carried away into captitivty by the king of Assyria.  Comment on the verses below:

• 2 Kings 15:29 -
• 1 Chronicles 5:25,26 -

26.  The sons of Reuben and Gad were so concerned about their many possessions; that all they could think about was grabbing the land to care for what they owned rather than being fully obedient to the Lord and His promises.  They settled for what they thought was best in their own eyes to give them the most for themselves.  Riches are fleeting and they are deceitful.  They promise you temporary pleasure, but give no guarantees of security.  It can be here today and gone tomorrow.  Comment on the verses below:

• Proverbs 23:5 -
• Matthew 6:24 -
• Matthew 16:27 -
• Luke 12:15-21 -
• 1 Timothy 6:9-11 -

27.  Where is our inheritance and what are we living for – this world - are are we storing up riches in heaven?  The Lord will give us all that we need in this life and great reward in the next.  He has great things in store for us.  May we resist the temptation of the "Gilead Settlement" and continue to run the race that is set before us for that reward that is set before us.  Comment on these verses:

• Matthew 6:19-21 -
• Hebrews 12:1-3 -
• 1 Corinthians 2:9 -
• 1 Corinthians 9:23-25 - 
• Romans 8:28 -
• Colossians 3:24 -
• Jeremiah 29:11 -

28.  Summarize the chapter and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 31

Review & Intro:  This war against Midian had been commanded before (Numbers 25:16-18), the execution had been delayed. It was now to be carried out and the Midianites were to suffer for the wicked thing they had done to Israel by seducing them to the idolatrous worship of Baal Peor. Remember that it involved sexual pervsion that led to spiritual idolatry as it turned them to worship their god and forsake the God of Israel.

Numbers Chapter 31 - Observation Questions

1.  What were the sons of Israel to take on the Midianites? vs. 1,2

2.  What are we told about His vengeance as New Testament believers today?

• Rom. 12:17-21 -
• Hebrews 10:30 –

3.  Why was God's wrath on the Midianites?  Comment on the following verses:

• Numbers 24:10 -
• Numbers 25:1-3 -
• Numbers 31:15-16 -

4.  Why will God pour out His wrath upon unbelievers and the wicked in the last days?  Comment on these verses:

• John 3:36 -
• Romans 1:18 -
• Romans 2:5 -
• 1 Thessalonians 2:16 -
• Revelation 6:17 -
• Revelation 11:18 -
• Revelation 14:10 -
• Revelation 14:19 -
• Revelation 15:1 -

5.  Back to Numbers 31.  What command did Moses give to the people? vs. 3

6.  How many warriors went to war from each of the 12 tribes of Israel? vs. 4

7.  Therefore, what was the total number of the Israeli soldiers in the war against the Midianites? vs. 5

8.  Who accompanied the warriors with the holy vessels and the trumpets for the alarm in his hand? vs. 6

9.  Who was killed in the war against the Midianites? vs. 7

10.  What were the names of the 5 kings of Midian that were killed in this war? vs. 8

11.  What other significant person is mentioned that was killed in this war? vs. 8

12.  What was he responsible for?  Comment on the following verses:

• Numbers 31:15-16 -
• 2 Peter 2:12-16 -
• Jude 1:10,11 -
• Revelation 2:14 -

13.  The sons of Israel captured the women of Midian and their little ones.  They took all the cattle, flocks, and goods for plunder. (vs. 9) ... They burned their cities and their camps with fire. (vs.10) ... They took all the spoil and all the prey, of mankind and beast. (vs.11) ... Who did they take all of this to? vs. 12

14.  Where did they take all of the captives and spoils of war? vs. 12

15.  Moses and Eleazar the priest and all the leaders of the congregation went out to meet the soldiers outside the camp. (vs.13) ... Why was Moses angry with the officers of the army who had come back from the service of this war? vs. 14-16

16.  Review the lesson for Chapter 25 > HERE < if you need to be reminded about what went on with Balaam and Balak, king of Midian, and why the Israelites were judged by God.  Again, who was responsible for the plague being put in check?  It's interesting that he is the one that went to war with them, isn't it?

Note:  Balaam wanted the fees he had been offered for divination so he tried 3 times to curse Israel for hire as King Barak of Midian had asked him to do.  God would put a blessing in his mouth everytime so he could not curse them.  Instead, he gave advice to the Moabites and the Midianites, telling them to send their idolatrous and immoral women over to the Israelite camp to tempt them into sin.The advice worked, the plan succeeded. The Israelites fell into the trap, and God judged them for it, killing 24,000 of the Israelites. Certainly, they had sinned knowingly and willingly against God. However, after the Israelites have been judged for their sin, God turns His attention to the Midianites, telling Moses, "Take full vengeance on the Midianites."

17.  Who did the Lord have them to kill of those they had brought back as spoil from the war? vs.17-18

18.  Who did they not kill? vs. 18

Note:  The verses above are so hard to deal with.  We can see why the women deserved to die since they seduced the Israeli men to serve their gods with such sexual perversion.  ... Yes ...we don't understand why children had to die (the males obviously because they would be the ones to rebel and war against them in the future) ... I don't understand why children died in the worldwide flood, the destruction of Sodom & Gomorrah, the wars, the natural disasters, etc. ... I do know that God sees death differently than we do and that He is altogether just and holy and righteous and fair.  I know that about His character.  When my baby boy died in the womb, I thought of the evil that God took him out of and tried to focus on the fact that he was in heaven being comforted, and like David said about his baby boy that died, " He cannot come back to me, but one day I will go to him." (2 Samuel 12:23)

19.  Every soldier that had killed anyone or any soldier and/or captive who had touched a slain person had to be purified.  They were purified on the 3rd and 7th day. (vs.19) ...  What else had to be purified? vs. 20

20.  Eleazar the priest spoke to the men of war who had gone to battle. (vs.21)  What were the things that needed to pass through the fire for cleansing? vs. 22,23 - Name 6 things mentioned

21.  How were they to purify things that could not stand up to the fire without being destroyed? vs. 23

22.  They were to wash their clothes on the 7th day and they would be clean on the 7th day.  They could then enter the camp. (vs.24) ... What did the Lord have Moses and Eleazar do after that? vs. 26 -

23.  Who were they to divide the "booty" between? vs. 27

24.  They were also to levy a "tax for the Lord" from the men of war who went out to battle. (vs.28,29) ...  Who were they to give the tax to as an offering to the Lord? vs. 29

25.  Who were they to give the levy of "tax" from the congregation's half of the booty to? vs. 30

26.  A list is given of the booty that remained from the spoil ... of sheep, cattle, donkeys, and human beings, and the women who had not known man intimately. (vs.32-35) ... half of that went to the ones who went out to war (vs.36-40) ... Who did Moses give the levy of tax to for the Lord? vs. 41 -

27.  The other half went to the congregation of the sons of Israel (vs.42-46)... Who did Moses give the levy of tax to for the Lord from their half ? vs. 47 -

28.  The officers who were over the thousands of the army and the captains of thousands and hundreds approached Moses to let him know they had taken a census after the war of all the men who had gone to war.  What was the good news they had to report? vs.48,49 -

29.  As an offering of gratitude for the Lord's protection, the captains gave all the gold from armlets, bracelets, signet rings, earrings, and necklaces brought back from the war to make atonement for themselves before the Lord. (vs.50) ... Moses and Eleazar the priest took the gold and offered it up to the Lord.  What was the weight of it all? vs. 52 -

30.  The men of war took booty for themselves. (vs.53).  What did Moses and Eleazar the priest do with the gold from the captains of thousands and hundreds given them? vs. 54

Application:

31.  This is a difficult chapter.  We must look at God's justice and wrath on sin and unbelief full-face.  It is fearful to fall into the hands of the "living God". (Hebrews 10:31) ... How do we escape the wrath of God?  Comment on the following verses:

• Romans 5:9 -
• Ephesians 2:1-10 -
• 1 Thessalonians 1:9,10 -

32.  Summarize the chapter and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 30

Review & Intro:  In our studies of the book of Numbers, Moses is soon to depart to be with the Lord.  Aaron has already gone.  Joshua has been commissioned to take the children of Israel into the Promised Land.  They are getting ready to possess the land of promise.  The new census has been taken.  The Lord has Moses repeat the laws of offerings, festivals, and now he will review the law of taking vows.  The entire book of Deuteronomy will be a historical review and an encouragement from Moses before they enter the land and he dies without entering the land, although the Lord will allow him to see it with his eyes.  Let's look at the review of taking "vows" today ....

Numbers Chapter 30 - Observation Questions

1.  Who did Moses speak to about the Lord's commands? vs. 1

2.  What was required of a man who made a vow to the Lord? vs. 2

3.  What was required of a woman who still lived at home under her father's rule when she took a vow if her father did not intervene? vs. 3-4

4.  How could a woman under her father's household be free of her vow and forgiven by the Lord? vs. 5

5.  What was required of a woman who was married when she took a vow or "rash statements of her lips"  if her husband did not intervene? vs. 6-7

6.  How could a woman under her husband's household be free of her vow or "rash statements" and forgiven by the Lord? vs. 8

7.  If a woman was a widow or divorced, not having any man over her household, what was she required to do concerning any financial or other-type obligations she had made a vow concerning? vs. 9

8.  What are the exceptions made for this in vs.10-15?

Final Note: "These are the statutes which the LORD commanded Moses, as between a man and his wife, and as between a father and his daughter, while she is in her youth in her father's house." - vs. 16

Application:

9.  Making a vow or an oath to the Lord was not to be viewed as a trivial thing. God expects us to keep our word to Him. Comment on these verses:

• Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 -

10.  The Lord made provision for the woman under her father's leadership or under her husband's leadership to be "free" of her obligation or rash statements made.  This is protection for her.  Comment on these verses to show why women might need that extra protection given them:

• 1 Corinthians 11:3 -
• 2 Corinthians 11:3 -
• 1 Timothy 2:14 -
• 1 Peter 3:7 -

11.  Whether men or women, what did the Lord Jesus instruct us about making vows?  Comment on the verse below:

• Matthew 5:33-37

12.  How does James instruct the church on this matter?

• James 5:12 -

13.  It is interesting that part of speaking a vow was simply saying some as a "rash statement"; something a person might not have really meant but said in a moment of anger or panic.  Don't we all do this sometimes?  Comment on the following verses and share your insights.

• Proverbs 15:28 -
• Proverbs 16:32 -
• Proverbs 17:27 -
• James 1:19 -

Note:  What kind of things might we be tempted to "promise" the Lord or make a "vow" we might not keep?  Sometimes people bargain with God, saying "If you get me out of this, I will......" or "If You heal me, I will.......".  We should not make these kind of bargains with the Lord.  Rather, we should realize that we are weak and not always true to our good intentions, asking the Lord for His help and strength in being faithful to His Word and to others.  We never go wrong with being humble.  Amen?

14.  What kind of vows do we make today that we should keep?  One is the marriage vow and then there are the things we are indebted to financially to pay.  Can you think of any others?  Do you think these are vows that we should have?  It would be good to have discussion on this.

15.  Summarize the lesson and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 29

Intro & Review:  In Numbers, Chapter 28, we looked at Moses' review of the daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly offerings that the priests were to offer for the people when they came into the land of Promise.  Moses is about to end his life on earth and he is preparing them for their future in the Promised Land.  The offerings and the feasts are to continue.  The new generation needs to know this!  In Chapter 29, the remaining feasts are described, the ones that happen later in the year - Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Tabernacles -

Numbers, Chapter 29 - Observation Questions

(29:1-6) The Feast Of Trumpets

1.  What were they to do every year on the first day of the seventh month? vs. 1

2.  What were they not to do on this day and what were they "to do" on this day? vs. 1

3.  They were to offer a burnt offering as a "soothing aroma" on that day as well.  What were the animals they offered?  What was the condition of the animals to be?  How old were the 7 male lambs to be? vs. 2

4.  Each of the animal offerings had a grain offering to accompany them as well.  This was fine flour mixed with oil.  What were there measurements for: 1) the bull - 2) the ram -, and 3) each of the 7 lambs? vs.3,4 -

5.  Also to be offered was a "sin offering" for atonement.  What animal was offered for that? vs. 5

6.  The offerings described were besides the "burnt offering" of the "new moon" and its grain offering ... and the "continual burnt offering" and its grain offering, and their "drink offerings", according to their ordinance.  What were all of these "offers by fire" to the Lord? vs. 6

7.  How do we live our lives as a "pleasing aroma" to the Lord?  Comment on the verse below:

• 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 -
• Ephesians 5:2 
• Philippians 4:18 -

8.  The Feast of Trumpets is on the first day of the 7th month - much later in the calendar that the first four feasts.  Historically, it was a Sabbath day - a day for the workers to cease from their labors.   Many scholars believe that prophetically, the trumpets represent the mysterious day yet future when a trumpet will blow, and God's people will cease from their labors.  This most likely will be fulfilled with the "catching up" of the saints, which has come to be called "the rapture".  Comment on the following verses:

• 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 -
• 1 Corinthians 15:50-53 -

9.  Does this mean the "gathering" would be on the same day as they celebrate trumpets?  The other feasts happened exactly on the day historically fulfilled in Christ.    The New Testament saints lived as though the coming of the Lord could happen "at any time".  While it will come upon many as a "thief in the night", the Christians are to always be "ready" for it to happen.  Comment on these verses:

• 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -

10.  Concerning the end of the age, and the unfolding of the events of that time, Jesus made it clear that although there were signs they could notice and look for, no one would know the hour or the day; only His Father in heaven.  Comment on the following verse:

• Matthew 24:36 -
• Matthew 24:42-44 -
• Luke 21:36 -
• 1 Thessalonians 5:6 -

(29:7-11) The Day Of Atonement

11.  Back to Numbers 29.  What were they to do on the 10th day of the 7th month? vs. 7

12. What was the "burnt offering" that was a "soothing aroma" for the Lord on that day?  List the animals, their condition, age, etc. vs.8 -

13.  Again, each animal had a grain offering and drink offering to accompany it. (vs.9-11).  What was also to be offered other than the burnt offering on that day? vs. 11

14.  What was this offering in addition to?  What would continue to be offered that day as well? vs. 11

Note:  Nine days after the feast of Trumpets (on the 10th of Tishrei) came the Day of Atonement (aka Yom Kippur). Historically, it was a day in which the Jews had to humble themselves, confessing their sins against God. It was a solemn day of confession, a day when they were to "afflict their souls."  In Leviticus 16, we are told how the High Priest would go into the Holy of Holies on this one day only each year and make atonement for the sins of the nation upon the mercy seat (God's throne).After getting properly dressed and washed, the High Priest would make a sin offering for himself, sprinkling the blood of a bull in the holy of holies upon the mercy seat while burning incense.Then, the High Priest would make a sin offering for the people, and take the blood of the goat and sprinkle it in the holy of holies on the mercy seat.Then the High Priest would confess the sins of the nation over the head of another goat, which would be set free in the wilderness, to carry the people's sins away from them.

15.  Historically, and for the believer today, this prophecy has been fulfilled in the Lord Jesus Christ.  Comment on the verse below:

• Hebrews 9:24-26 -

16.  Prophetically, for the nation of Israel's sake, it is yet to be fulfilled.  Most scholars agree, the day of Atonement points to the climax of the Great Tribulation period, when the Jews are facing complete annihilation against the nations of the world led by the antichrist.(Daniel's 70 weeks ... Daniel 9:24) ... At that time, the remnant of Israel will finally realize that Jesus Christ was their Messiah, and that their ancestors killed Him instead of receiving Him.  Comment on these verses:

• Matthew 23:37-39 -
• Matthew 24:15-31 -
• Zechariah 12:8-10 -
• Zechariah 14:3-9 -

Note:  The Day of Atonement when the remnant of Israel will look to the Lord and be saved.  This will happen after the years of tribulation are complete.  They will see him as He physically touches down on the Mount of Olives according to Zechariah 12 & 14. 

17.  Where will the believers be that were raptured beforehand?  We will be coming with the Lord at His Second Coming!  Comment on the verses below:

• Zechariah 14:b -
• Revelation 19:7-9 -
• Revelation 19:11-14 - 

(29:12-40) The Feast Of Tabernacles

18.  What were they to do on the 15th day of the 7th month? vs. 12

19.  How long was this feast to last? vs. 12

20.  What was the burnt offering they were to present on the first day of the seven?  What were the animals and how many of each one?  How old were the lambs to be?  What condition were all the animals to be? vs. 13

21.  A grain offering and a drink offering were to be presented with each one of these burnt offerings for a soothing aroma to the Lord. (vs.12-16).  What other offering was to be made and what animal was to be offered? vs. 16 -

22.  What was to be offered on the 2nd day of the 7 day feast? vs. 17 -

23.  A grain offering and a drink offering were to be presented with each one of these burnt offerings for a soothing aroma to the Lord. (vs.17-19).  What other offering was to be made and what animal was to be offered? vs. 19 -

24.  What was to be offered on the 3rd day of the 7 day feast? vs. 20 -

25.  A grain offering and a drink offering were to be presented with each one of these burnt offerings for a soothing aroma to the Lord. (vs.20-22). What other offering was to be made and what animal was to be offered? vs. 22 -

26.  What was to be offered on the 4th day of the 7 day feast? vs. 23 -

27.  A grain offering and a drink offering were to be presented with each one of these burnt offerings for a soothing aroma to the Lord. (vs.23-25). What other offering was to be made and what animal was to be offered? vs. 25 -

28.  What was to be offered on the 5th day of the 7 day feast? vs. 26 -

29.  A grain offering and a drink offering were to be presented with each one of these burnt offerings for a soothing aroma to the Lord. (vs.26-28). What other offering was to be made and what animal was to be offered? vs. 28 -

30.  What was to be offered on the 6th day of the 7 day feast? vs. 29 -

31.  A grain offering and a drink offering were to be presented with each one of these burnt offerings for a soothing aroma to the Lord. (vs.29-31). What other offering was to be made and what animal was to be offered? vs. 31 -

32.  What was to be offered on the 7th day of the 7 day feast? vs. 32 -

33.  A grain offering and a drink offering were to be presented with each one of these burnt offerings for a soothing aroma to the Lord. (vs.32-34). What other offering was to be made and what animal was to be offered? vs. 34 -

34.  What were they to do on the 8th day? vs. 35

35.  What were they to present as an offering on the 8th day? vs. 36

36.  A grain offering and a drink offering were to be presented with each one of these burnt offerings for a soothing aroma to the Lord. (vs.36-38). What other offering was to be made and what animal was to be offered? vs. 38 -

Note: Finally, the Feast of Tabernacles points ahead to the millennial reign of Christ on earth after the Great Tribulation, when God will tabernacle among His people and rule on the earth. Also called "Succoth", "Feast of Booths", as well as "Feast of Ingathering". It was celebrated at the time when the crops were all harvested and the barns were full.The people were to all go camping in their backyards, building "booths", or, "tabernacles" out of tree branches. For seven days they would live in the booths, teaching the people how the children of Israel lived in tents, wandering for forty years.

37.  Prophetically - This is the only feast that we know for sure will be celebrated after Jesus returns. Comment on the verse below.

• Zechariah 14:16 -

The Kingdom is when God has done his final "Ingathering" of his people.  So, the Feast of Tabernacles speaks of the Kingdom Age.  Each successive day was to offer up one less bull, but all the other animals, until after seven days, there would be a total of seventy bulls, fourteen rams, and ninety-eight lambs sacrificed.This was by far the most costliest feast yet.This was also called the "Feast of Ingathering" because it took place after all the crops had been harvested, and the people were settling down for winter.It would be taking place during the time of greatest stored up abundance on the farm.

Final Note For Numbers Chapter 29:  They were to present these to the Lord at their "appointed times" besides the votive offerings and freewill offerings for brunt offerings, grain offerings, drink offerings, and peace offerings. (vs.39).... Moses spoke all of this to the sons of Israel in obedience to what the Lord had commanded him. (vs.40)

 

 

Application:

38.  As we finish looking at the offerings and feasts that the sons of Israel gave to the Lord, we not only see it was yearly, but also monthly, weekly, and even day by day.  We see that in the sin offering  for atonement, Christ was pictured in the pleasing aroma that ascended to the Father.  As we allow Christ to live through us as believers, that pleasing aroma ascends to the Father through the sacrificial lives we live for Him in this world.  Comment on the following verses and evaluate in your mind and heart - Do I honor Him with my life ... daily? ... if so, how? .... weekly? .... if so, how? ...... monthly? .... if so, how? .... and through special celebrations each year? ... if so, how? .......

• Matthew 3:17 -
• Matthew 12:18 -
• Matthew 17:5 -
• 2 Peter 1:17 -
• Colossians 1:19 -
• John 12:26 -
• Romans 12:1,2 -

• 2 Corinthians 2:14-16-

• Ephesians 5:2 -

• Philippians 4:18 -

• 1 Timothy 1:17 -

39.  Every day there was a reminder of sin in their lives through the "sin offering" and the "guilt offering".  What did Jesus do for us that the blood of bulls and goats could not do for them?  Comment on the verses below:

• Hebrews 9:11-14 -
• Hebrews 10:1-14 -

40.  Summarize the lesson and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 28

Review & Intro:  The Lord has told Moses he will be able to "see" the Promised Land, but not enter it with the people.  His time of departure had come and he was to get things in order for Joshua to be the one to lead them in to the new land.  Moses & Eleazar, the priest have taken a new census of thos 20 and up who are able to war of the new generation.  Before Moses dies, the Lord wants him to remind the people again of how the offerings and feasts will need to continue to be honored.  We covered these in detail in Leviticus 23 if you would like to go to that lesson for more information.  Every sacrifice everyday represented the atonement to come on a permanent basis in the Lord Jesus Christ, and every feast pointed to a prophetic event about Christ that was fulfilled on the days they were celebrated.  Some are yet to be fulfilled at His Second Coming.

Numbers Chapter 28 - Observation Questions

The daily offerings 28:1-8

1.  What did the Lord tell Moses to command the sons of Israel to be careful to present to Him? vs. 1,2

2.  When these offerings are made at their appointed times, what is it like for the Lord? vs. 2

3.  This daily offering was to be a continual burnt offering that never went out!  How many lambs were sacrificed daily and what age/condition were they to be? vs. 3

4.  One lamb was to be offered in the morning and the other lamb offered at twilight everyday (vs.4).  Along with the lambs was a grain offering made of a tenth of an ephah of fine flour mized with a fourth of a hin of beaten oil. (vs.5) ... Where was this continual burnt offering first ordained? vs. 6

Note:  You can read about it in Exodus 29:28-32

5.  There was also to be a strong drink  for the drink offering of a fourth of a hin poured out for each lamb as they were sacrificed.  Where was the priest to pour this out? vs. 7

6.  When was the other lamb with the grain offering and drink offering to be offered by fire to the Lord? vs. 8

The Sabbatic (weekly) Offerings: 9-10

Note:  Also see Leviticus 23:3

7.  In addition to the continual daily burning of the 2 lambs offered every morning and every evening at twilight, there was to be an additional 2 male lambs one year old "without defect" offered up every Sabbath day each and every week. These were to be offered with the grain offering and drink offering also. (vs.9-10).  Who in the New Testament referred to themselves as a "drink offering" being poured out?  Comment on the following 2 verses and who said this about himself.  What do you think he meant?

• Philippians 2:17 -
• 2 Timothy 4:16 -

The monthly offerings (28:11-15)

8.  Back to Numbers 28.  What were they to offer to the Lord at the beginning of each of their months?  List each type of animal and how many of each, along with the sex and the age of each given. (vs.11)

9.  Along with the animals offered "without defect", there was a grain offering and drink offering  for each one offered as a "burnt offering" and "soothing aroma" to the Lord each and every month of the year.  (vs.12-14) ... What was to be added to the burnt offering each month? vs. 15

10.  Besides the daily, weekly, and monthly offerings ... there were feast (convocations) to be kept faithfully every year.  After the inheritance of the land is given and the people are settled in the land, the men will be required to appear before the Lord in Jerusalem 3 times a year to keep these important yearly feasts!

Yearly Festivals -

(Leviticus 23:4-14; Numbers 28:16-25; Deuteronomy 16:1)

The Passover (28:16-25)

11.  What were they to celebrate each year on the 14th day of the 1st month? vs. 16

12.  What would be celebrated on the 15th day and what would be eaten for 7 days? vs. 17

13.  On the first day of Unleavened Bread, they were to have a holy convocation and do no laborious work at all. (vs. 18) ... 

 14.  What animals were to be offered as a burnt offering to the Lord on the first day of this feast?  What was their condition to be and how old were the lambs to be? vs. 19

15.  Each animal was to have a grain offering with it. (vs.20,21) ... What was also to be offered for the sin offering to make atonement for them? vs. 22 -

Note:  These were to be presented every day of the 7 days of Unleavened Bread besides the continual burnt offerings. (vs.23)

16.  Again, the Lord reminds them that the offerings were a "soothing aroma" to Him.  What were they to be presented with each day? vs. 24 -

17.  Like the 1st day of the feast of Unleavened Bread, what were they to observe on the 7th day of the feast as well? vs. 25 -

 

Note: Every detail written about the Passover & Unleavened Bread is repeated in the fulfillment of the Lord Jesus Christ. He was called the Lamb of God; He was crucified on the 14th day of Nissan when the passover lambs were being offered.  He also was "unblemished" by sin and "not a bone of His was broken", which was another requirement of the lamb.  The blood of the passover lamb caused the death angel that was going through the land of Egypt to "pass over" their households when the blood was applied to the door.  The blood of Jesus, our passover Lamb, causes the sentence of death to "pass over" us as the Lord sees His righteousness over our hearts rather than the sin of Adam that we once walked in. 

18.  When they celebrated Unleavened Bread the year of His crucifixion, Jesus had already been broken for them on the cross.  He was buried as the sun was setting to usher in the 15th day of Nisan, the same day as the Feast of Unleavened Bread began.  After this, they celebrated First Fruits which is prophetically when He came out of the grave - His resurrection - Amen !  What does the apostle Paul say about this?  Comment on the verse following:

• 1 Corinthians 5:7 -
• 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 -

Note:  All of the spring feasts have been fulfilled including Pentecost which was the birth of the church (Jews & Gentiles in one body), but the prophetic meanings of the fall feasts are yet to be fulfilled with the Second Coming of Christ.  We have that to still look forward to.

19. Should Christians celebrate these Levitical feast days of Israel today? Whether or not a Christian celebrates the Jewish feast days would be a matter of conscience for the individual Christian. Comment on the following verses:

• Colossians 2:16-17

20. Christians are not bound to observe the Jewish feasts the way an Old Testament Jew was, but we should not criticize another believer who does or does not observe these special days and feasts. Comment on the following verse:

• Romans 14:5

21. Although Jesus fulfilled the foreshadow of the feasts, it would be wonderful to teach our children and others the things about Jesus through also observing the Jewish holidays to one degree or another. As Christians, we celebrate Christmas to teach of His birth. We celebrate Easter Sunday to teach of His death and resurrection from the grave. How do you take special times of the year to teach others about our Lord? Share your holiday traditions if you would like.

22. Summarize the lesson and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 27

Review & Intro:  A second census was taken of the new generation in Numbers Chapter 26 as they get ready to wage war and possess the land of their "inheritance".  The land will be portioned out according to the sizes of their families.  When we saw the description of the families that were included in the census, it was noted that Zelophehad did not have sons, but he had 5 daughters.  Their names are given again because they want to be included in the inheritance of God's promise to honor their father's name, so we begin with their request to Moses .....

Numbers Chapter 27 - Observation Questions

1.  What are the names of Zelophehad's daughters? vs. 1 - Name 5

2.  What family does Zelophehad originate from (what tribe) ? vs. 1

3.  The daughters stood before Moses & Eleazar, the priest, and before all the leaders and congregation of the sons of Israel at the doorway of the tent of meeting. (vs.2)  What had happened to their father? vs. 3

4.  What did they want to make sure that Moses and the others understood about their father? vs. 3

5.  Even though their father had no sons, they believed their father's name should still be honored among those who received inheritance in the promised land. (vs.4) ... So Moses took their case to the Lord. (vs.5)  What did the Lord say in regard to the statements of Zelophehad's daughters? vs. 6,7 -

6.  The Lord clarified to Moses what should happen with the inheritance of any man's family if he died and had no sons. (vs.8) ...  1) it should go to his ___________(vs.8) ... 2) if no daughter, it should go to his _________ (vs.9) ... 3) if no brothers, it shall go to his ____________(vs.10)... 4) if  not possible, then it would go to the nearest _________ in his own family (vs.11).

7. What mountain did the Lord tell Moses to go up to to "see" the land that He was giving the sons of Israel? vs. 12

8.  Once Moses had seen the land, the Lord would gather him to his people just as Aaron had been taken in the wilderness of Zin. (vs.13)  What was the reason why Aaron & Moses would not get to enter the Promised Land? vs. 14 -

Note:  Remember that Moses was suppose to speak to the rock to give the people water, but Moses struck the rock twice with the rod.  He also spoke harshly to the people in his frustration with them, saying "do you want me to get water from the rock for you?" rather than giving all the glory to the Lord and obeying the Lord in speaking to the rock. (You can read the account again in Chapter 20:7-13).

9.  What is Moses' concern as he realizes he will be leaving the people of Israel? vs. 15-17

10.  Remember, Moses was a shepherd for 40 years in the land of Midian before the Lord appeared in the burning bush to call him to go to Egypt to bring out the sons of Israel.  He has a shepherd's heart.  Comment on the verses regarding a shepherd's heart, noting who they are referring to and what they say about it.

• Matthew 9:35-38 -

• Mark 6:33,34 -

• John 10:7-15 -

• John 10:27-30 -

• John 21:15-17 -

11.  Who did the Lord tell Moses to appoint in his place to lead the congregation into the Promised Land? vs.19-20

12.  How has the Lord been preparing Joshua for this throughout the time he has been with Moses as his assistant?  Comment on the following verses:

• Exodus 17:8-16 -
• Exodus 24:13 -
• Exodus 33:11 -
• Numbers 11:28 -
• Numbers 14:5-10 -
• Numbers 14:30 -
• Numbers 27:18 -
• Numbers 32:12 -
• Deuteronomy 34:9 -

13.  If you desire God to give you big opportunities, be faithful with the small opportunities.  Comment on the verse below:

• Matt. 25:21 -

Note:  Because of his faithfulness for 40 years, Joshua is getting the promotion of a lifetime!

13.  Back to Numbers 27.  What did Joshua possess? vs. 18

14.  What was Moses to put "on" Joshua in the sight of the people so that they would obey him? vs. 19,20

15.  How would Joshua be directed by the Lord to go out or to come in with the sons of Israel? vs. 21

Note:  Moses spoke with the Lord face to face. The Lord gave Moses a word, and Moses turned around and gave that word to the people. But with Joshua, how will Joshua discern the Lord’s will? He’ll go to Eleazar the priest; Eleazar will consult the Urim and the Thummin; the Lord will reveal through the Urim and the Thummin what the children of Israel are to do; Eleazar will report that back to Joshua; and Joshua will report it to the people of God. (look up what Urim and Thummim means if you don't remember from our previous studies)

16. Moses did just as the LORD commanded him; and he took Joshua and set him before Eleazar the priest and before all the congregation. (vs. 22) Moses laid his hands on Joshua to commission him (vs.23). We see this pattern in the New Testament as well. Comment on the following verses:

• Acts 8:17 -
• Acts 8:18 -
• Acts 9:17 -
• 1 Timothy 4:14 -
• 2 Timothy 1:6 -
• James 5:14 -

 

Application:

 17.  Moses had been a faithful servant to the Lord.  Because he was a picture of the Law and such a unique prophet in representing the Law, he could not enter because of breaking the Law and treating the Lord as unholy in the sight of Israel.  We are told in the New Testament that he was faithful in the Lord's household and Jesus holds Moses up in honor.  Comment on the verses given below:

• Mark 9:5 -
• Luke 16:31 -
• Luke 24:27 -
• Luke 24:44 -
• John 1:17 -
• John 1:45 -
• John 5:46 -
• Hebrews 3:2 -
• Hebrews 3:5 -
• Revelation 15:3 -

Moses never set foot in the Promised Land on this earth, but he went to glory and is experiencing the Promised Land that we are all looking forward to!  Our inheritance is yet to come!  Amen!

18.  Summarize this lesson and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 26

Review & Intro:  A plague broke out in the account recorded in Numbers Chapter 25 due to the people playing the harlot with Moabite women and joining themselves to Baal of Peor in idolatry.  Eleazar's son, Phinehas, took action to remove the young man from the tribe of Simeon and the young lady from the leaders of Midian who came into the camp of the Lord and blatantly went into the family tent for sexual pleasure.  Because of the zeal of Phinehas, the plague was stopped.  We are told that 24,000 people died in that plague.  As the Lord had promised, the older generation had died off before they go into the Promised Land after 40 years in the wilderness.  In Chapter 26, a new census is taken of the new generation of the men 20 years and upward able to go to war.  As Joshua takes the new generation into the Promised Land, there will be many battles to fight.  These are the warriors that will fight for Israel.

Numbers Chapter 26 - Observation Questions

1.  What does the Lord ask Moses and Eleazar to do after the plague is stopped? vs. 1,2

2.  Who were included in this new census taken? vs. 2

3.  Where was this at when this census was announced to be taken, tribe by tribe? vs. 3,4 -

4.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Reuben that were counted in this census? vs.5,6 - Name 4

5.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Reuben in this cenus? vs. 7

6.  We are told that Nemuel, Dathan, and Abiram were sons of Eliab, who was a son of Pallu, one of the sons of Reuben. (vs.8).  What was important to note about these two - Dathan & Abiram? vs. 9,10 -

7.  Although Korah did die for his rebellion, who did not die when this happened? vs. 11 -

8.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Simeon that were counted in this census? vs.12,13- Name 5

9.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Simeon in this cenus? vs. 14

10.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Gad that were counted in this census? vs.15-17- Name 7

11.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Gad in this cenus? vs. 18

12.  What happened to the two sons of Judah named Er and Onan in the land of Canaan? vs. 19 - 

13.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Judah (apart from these)  that were counted in this census? vs.20,21- Name 3

14.  What two families came from Judah's son, Perez? vs. 21 - Name 2

15.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Judah in this cenus? vs. 22

16.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Issachar that were counted in this census? vs.23,24- Name 4

17.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Issachar in this cenus? vs. 25

18.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Zebulun that were counted in this census? vs.26- Name 3

19.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Zebulun in this cenus? vs. 27

20.  Joseph remained in Egypt, and his inheritance was divided between his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. (vs.28)   First listed is the names of the families of his son Manasseh.  Who is named as a son of Manasseh? vs. 29  ..... Who did Machir become the father of? vs. 29 ....

21.  Who became a son of Gilead? vs.30 ... Who came from Iezer? vs. 30 ....

22.  Name the remainder names given for the family of Manesseh in this new generation. vs. 31-32 - Name 4

23.  The son of Hepher, named Zelophehad, did not have any sons.  What were the names of his 5 daughters given to us? vs. 33

24.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Manasseh in this cenus? vs. 34

25.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Ephraim that were counted in this census? vs.35,36-  From families of Shuthelah - Name 3 ... From the family of Eran - Name 1 ....

26.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Ephraim in this cenus? vs. 37

27.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Benjamin that were counted in this census? vs. 38-40 - Name 5

28.  What sons of Bela are mentioned? vs. 40 - Name 2

29.  How many were numbered of the families of the sons of Benjamin in this cenus? vs. 41

30.   What was the name of the family of the son of Dan that were counted in this census? vs. 42  - Name 1

31.  How many were numbered of the family of the son of Dan from the Shuhamites in this cenus? vs. 43

32.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Asher that were counted in this census? vs. 44-46 - Name 3 sons - vs. 44 ........Who were the sons of Beriah? vs. 45 - Name 2 ..... What was the name of the daughter of Asher? vs. 46 .....

33.  How many were numbered of the family of the son of Asher in this census? vs. 47

34.  What were the names of the families of the sons of Naphtali that were counted in this census? vs. 48-49 - Name 4

35.  How many were numbered of the family of the son of Naphtali in this census? vs. 50

36.  What was the total number of the sons of Israel who were able to go to war, from 20 years and upward? vs. 51

37.   How did the Lord tell Moses to divide up the land as an inheritance to these tribes? vs.53-56

38.  What families were numbered from the Levities? vs. 57 - Name 3

39.  What families are named from the families of Levi? vs. 58 - Name 5

40.  Of the families of the Levites, who did Kohath become the father of? vs. 58

41.  What was the name of his wife? vs. 59

42.  Who were their 3 children? vs. 59

43.  What were the names of Aaron's 4 sons? vs. 60,61

44.  What happened to his sons "Nadab & Abihu"? vs. 61

45.  What was the number of the Levities who were 1 month old and upward at the time of this census? vs. 62

Note:  The Levites are not numbered among the sons of Israel because they did not receive an inheritance. (vs.62)  Though Levites did not receive land as their inheritance, they still received various cities in which to dwell and use the fields to feed their livestock. By letting Levites dwell in other tribes' allotted areas, God had arranged for the people of the nation of Israel to stay close to the commandments of God all the time.  Levites had the duty of giving sacrifices to God and keeping the tabernacle of the LORD. They also had the duty to teach the Law of God to the people (Deuteronomy 33:10). God Himself became their inheritance so that they would not stain their heart with the worldly things but concentrate on serving God. In other words, rather than giving them the land to get a harvest from it, God let them make their living through the tithes and various offerings that the people gave to God.

46.  Among all of the Israelites numbered by Moses and Eleazar in the plains of Moab by the Jordan at Jericho, there was not a man that had been numbered by Moses and Aaron in the first census taken in the wilderness of Sinai. (vs.63,64) .... What had happened to all of them other than Caleb & Joshua? vs. 65 -

Application:

47.  As Christians, we have a journey through this life which entails warfare to prepare for as well on our way to the Promised Land (heaven).  Our battle is not "flesh and blood" as Israel had to prepare for at that time, but we do have warfare in the spiritual realm.  Comment on the verses below:

• Ephesians 6:10-18 -

48.  The Bible makes clear that we have an "inheritance" waiting for us in heaven.  What are we told about our "inheritance"?  Comment on the verses below, listing what you learn about "our inheritance".

• Acts 20:32 -
• Acts 26:18 -
• Ephesians 1:9-23 -
• Colossians 1:9-12 -
• Colossians 3:23,24 -
• 1 Peter 1:3-5 -

49.  Summarize the lesson and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 25

Review & Intro:  Try as he may for the pay, Balaam could not get a curse to come out of his mouth toward the Israelites.  In fact, three times Balak had him stand above the people to speak out at different locations and all three times Balaam blessed them, even with the Spirit coming upon him to prophesy of the coming Messiah.  Balaam does know, however, if the women from Moab entice the men to come over, they can get them to bow to their god Baal-Peor.  That would bring the judgment of God upon them.  Wycliffe Bible Commentary explains that spring festivals celebrated the mating of Baal of Beth-peor with the goddess of fertility. According to archaeological discoveries, prostitution was part of the worship service.  If there is any doubt that Balaam is behind the immorality and idolatry of Numbers, Chapter 25 - look ahead to Numbers, Chapter 31 - as well as the 3 New Testament references from 2 Peter, Jude, and Revelation regarding Balaam that we have been referring to in past lessons.

 

Numbers Chapter 25 - Observation Questions

1.  What happened while Israel remained camped at Shittem (aka Abel-shittim) in the land of Moab? vs. 1

2.  The Moabites "invited" the people of Israel to the "sacrifices of their gods", and what did the Israelites do there? vs. 2

3.  Israel "joined themselves" to what god through this? vs. 3

4.  Using a concordance, share what you learn about "Baal of Peor" ?

 

5.  The Lord was angry with their adultery in going after Baal of Peor. (vs.3)  It not only involved the worship of a false god, but there were sexual acts performed in the worship.  Do you know of any Christians, personally or those on television, that have fallen into sexual immorality?  Unfortunately, it is common even in the church today.  Paul dealt with it in the Corinthian church as well. ... (see 1 Corinthians 5:1-8) ...The enemy knows that if he can get you involved in sexual immorality, he can also make you an idolator.  People compromise their conscience and many times abandon their convictions because of the power of seduction. Comment on the following verses.

• 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 -
• 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 -
• 2 Timothy 2:22 -

6.  The people "invited" them to come to their sacrificial feasts.  Oh how nice to be invited by people to share in their activities.  Be careful who you accept invitations from.  Hanging out with immoral people will encourage them to invite you to more things until you will blend into their rituals as if it was common place to be like that.  Comment on the following verses:

• Psalm 1:1 -
• 1 Corinthians 5:9-13 - 
• 1 Corinthians 15:33 -
• Galatians 6:8 -

7.  The people "ate" with them.  This generation had spent their entire lives eating manna in the wilderness.  Can you imagine the "temptation" to eat the food that had been sacrificed to the Moabite's god?  If we are not content with what the Lord has provided us, we will be tempted by the god of this world to participate in things that please the eyes and satisfy the lust of our flesh. Are we content with what we have been blessed with today?  Share if you would like.  .... Comment on the following verses:

• 1 John 2:16
• 1Tim. 6:6-8
• Philippians 4:11 -
• Hebrews :13:5 -
• Matthew 6:33 -

8.  Back to Numbers 25.  What did the Lord tell Moses to have done to all the leaders of the people and why? vs. 4

9.  Moses told the judges of Israel to slay those men who had "joined" themselves to Baal of Peor. (vs.5)  This was more than a casual glance or visit; these were totally involved in the sexual acts and all the perversion that went with worshiping this god.  It should not surprise anyone that they will be executed for this.  They need to remember what happened when they were worshiping the golden calf that Aaron made, and all the times they have been warned by God in regard to making idols or worshiping them.  Comment on the following verses:

• Exodus 20:4-6 -
• Leviticus 19:4 -
• Leviticus 26:1 -
• Leviticus 26:30 -

Note:  Like surgery to a cancer, extreme measures are taken to save the body and the life.  it's taking the extreme measures necessary to insure the life of the rest of the body.  God knows that sin spreads like yeast in the dough.   When there is sin in the camp, It must be completely removed to insure the purity of the rest.

10.  Next, we are told of one of the sons of Israel who blatanly marched into the camp with a Midianite woman and took her past the weeping mourners at the tent of meeting straight into the tent of his family to have sex with her. (vs.6) ... What did Aaron's grandson, the son of Eleazar, the current High Priest - named Phinehas - do? vs. 7,8 -

11.  What was the result of his zealous action? vs. 9

12.  How many had died of the plague the Lord had brought on them before the plague was put into check by Phinehas "taking a stand for righteousness"? vs. 9

13.  We are told that the number of people that died in one day from this plague was 23,000, so another 1,000 must have died soon after that!  Read the instruction we are given because of this example.

• 1 Corinthians 10:6-11 -

14.  Back to Numbers 25.  What did Phinehas have in common with the Lord and how did it help the sons of Israel? vs. 10,11 -

15.  The apostle Paul had the Lord's jealousy for the church as well.  Comment on the verse below:

• 2 Corinthians 11:2,3 -

16.  Back to Numbers 25.  As a result of what Phinehas did, what kind of covenant did the Lord make with him and his descendants after him?  vs. 13

17.  Moses lets us know who the defiant Israel man was who brought the Midianite woman into his family tent.  Who was he and what tribe did he belong to? vs. 14

18.  He also named the woman that brought this man down with her seduction and brazen attitude to come into the camp with him.  What was her name and who was her father and his position? vs. 15

19.  What did the Lord instruct Moses to do in regard to the Midianites for the way they sent their women to trick their men and deceive them into Baal of Peor worship? vs. 17,18

20.  "Tolerance" is a word we hear often in our culture today.  The Bible does not teach us to be "tolerant" of sin among believers.  We should be merciful and compassionate, but the goal is always to help them turn from sin and back to the ways of the Lord.  What did the Lord have against the church in Thyatira?  Comment on this verse:

• Revelation 2:20-23 -

Note:  Just as the whole church was being held accountable for their toleration of the sin of the prophetess Jezebel - the whole congregation of Israel would have been held accountable for their toleration if Phinehas had not intervened. 

21.  Today, we don't physically take out the people, but we do rid the church of them after the proper warnings and the time needed for them to repent, and this especially true of leadership.  Comment on these verses:

• 1 Corinthians 5:1-8 -
• 1 Corinthians 5:11-13 -
• Titus 3:9-11 -
• 1 Timothy 5:19-20 -

 

 

Application:

22.  Because the leader of the Moabites and the Midianites (Balak) had desired to curse God’s people rather than bless them, they brought a curse upon themselves.  When they listened to the counsel of Balaam to seduce their men and bring judgment upon them through immorality and idolatry to Baal-Peor .... God commanded Moses to see to it that the Midianites were destroyed for their treachery. We will see this judgment take place in Numbers Chapter 31.  Balaam is also killed with a sword in that battle. Comment on the following verse:

• Numbers 31:8 -

22.  How do we know Balaam was behind the seduction of the Moabite and Midianite women to make Israel fall into sin and be judged by God?  Comment on these verses.

• Numbers 31:15,16 -
• Revelation 2:14 -

23.  We must guard against the sin of Balaam.  A person can know about God and even speak for God, and yet not know God as their own personal Savior and Lord.  I have seen deacons and leaders in churches confess that they were truly not Christians, but only acting out.  I have watched people come to true repentance who had a form of religion but were not in a relationship with Jesus.  Comment on the following verses:

• Matthew 7:21-23 -
• 2 Peter 1:4-11 -
• 2 Corinthians 13:5 -

24.  We must guard against the sin of Israel as we are told by Paul in 1 Corinthians.  If we think that we stand, we need to take heed lest we fall.  Although God had taken care of all their needs, they were not content and thankful.  Although the Promised Land was so very close, many of them forfeited their own entrance into the land of promise because of their own weakness, lust, and lack of judgment.  They fell to the temptation of immorality and idolatry.  Comment on these verses: 

• Proverbs 16:18 -
• Matthew 26:41 -
• 1 Corinthians 10:12 -
• 1 Corinthians 10:13 -
• 1 Peter 5:6 -
• Galatians 6:1 -

25.  The Lord knows that we are weak and can be tempted easily.  He will help us in times of temptation.  Do not give in to the weakness of the flesh.  Cry out to the Lord and He will help you.  Comment on these verses:

• 1 Corinthians 10:13 -
• Hebrews 4:16 -
• John 14:16 -

26.  Are you a Phinehas, who will trust and obey the Lord, and be willing to stand for righteousness, being jealous for the Lord's sake?  Of course our battle is not with flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces in high places.  Will you be a warrior for the Lord in your prayer life and your testimony?

• Ephesians 6:10-18 -   

27.  If it were not for the faithfulness of God, we would be hopeless. It is not our faithfulness to Him which assures us of His promises, but His faithfulness to us.  No one could thwart the promises and plans the Lord has for Israel and no one can thwart the plan He has for each one of us as His children.  We are in His hands.  The evil one cannot touch us.  Comment on the following verses.

• 1 John 5:18 -
• John 10:29 -
• 2 Timothy 2:13 -

 27.  Summarize the lesson and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 24

Review & Intro:  In Chapter 23, Balak took Balaam to 2 different locations where they built 7 altars and made sacrifices, and Balaam tried to curse Israel for the payment he would receive from King Balak of Moab, but .... God caused only blessings to be spoken both times.  In Chapter 24, Balak tries one other place.  The altars are not mentioned this time.  In fact, the Holy Spirit comes upon Balaam, and he even prophesies the coming of the Messiah.  Wow!  Balak will not be happy about this! 

Numbers Chapter 24 - Observation Questions

1.  What do we learn Balaam had "sought" after before he realized it pleased the Lord to bless Israel? vs. 1

2.  Where did Balaam set his face when he saw that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel?

3.  What does the Lord make clear in His Word about seeking "omens" and being apart of any kind of divination (witchcraft)?  Comment on the verses below:

• Deuteronomy 18:9-12-
• Jeremiah 14:14 -
• Ezekiel 13:6-9 -
• Isaiah 44:24-26-
• Malachi 3:5 -
• Acts 16:16-18 -
• Revelation 21:8 -
• Revelation 22:15 -

 4.  What happened to Balaam when he lifted his eyes and saw Israel camping "tribe by tribe"? vs. 2

5.  The Holy Spirit came upon men in the Old Testament to do His work and then the Spirit would leave as well.  This is why it is so beautiful that we have His Spirit dwelling "inside" of us when we place our faith in Jesus as our Lord.  The promise of the New Covenant is that He will never leave us or forsake us.  Comment on the following Old Testament and New Testament Scriptures regarding the work of the Holy Spirit:

• 1 Samuel 10:6 -
• 1 Samuel 11:6 -
• 1 Samuel 16:3 -
• 1 Samuel 16:14 -
• 1 Samuel 19:20 -
• 1 Chronicles 12:18 -
• Psalm 52:10-12 -
• John 14:16,17 -
• Ephesians 1:13 -

6.  Back to Numbers 24.  What did Balaam say about his own eyes? vs. 3

7.  What did Balaam say about his own ears? vs. 4

8.  How did Balaam respond when he saw the vision of the Almighty? vs. 4

9.  How did Balaam describe the tents of Jacob (Israel)? vs. 5,6 - Name 4 ways he described it.

10.  What does Balaam say "will come" from Israel? vs. 7 - Name 4 things

11.  Where did God bring Israel out of? vs. 8

12.  God is for Israel "like" the horns of the wild ox (protective, agressive) ...What will God to to the nations that are adversaries to Israel? vs. 8 - Name 3 things

13.  He lies down as a lion and who dare arouse him? (This prophecy mirrors the one given to Judah by Jacob in Genesis 50:8,9) ... Who is the Lion of the tribe of Judah?  Comment on the verse below:

• Revelation 5:5

Note:  Balaam is actually prophesying about the coming Messiah!

14.  Back to Numbers 24.  What happens to those who bless Israel? vs. 9

15.  What happens to those who curse Israel? vs. 9

16.  How did Balak feel about the prophecy that Balaam gave in blessing Israel this third time? vs. 10

17.  Balak told Balaam to go home; he would not honor him as promised, because the Lord held him back from honor, not allowing him to do what he was hired to do. (vs.11)  Balaam reminded Balak that he had told the messengers in the beginning that he would have to say what the Lord commanded him to, no matter how much was offered to him.  (vs.12,13) ... Balaam had another prophetic word to give to Balak before he left!  It concerned what Israel would do to the people of Moab in the days to come. (vs.14) ...Again, Balaam says he has "eyes opened" and "ears opened" to hear the words of God. (vs.15,16) ... What does he say that he "knows"? vs. 16

18.  Whose vision does Balaam see with his eyes "uncovered"? vs. 16

19.  What does Balaam see in this vision? vs. 17

20.  From what you know about Biblical prophecy and its fulfillment, who do you believe this is and why? vs. 17-19

This map shows where Edom, Moab, and Ammon were in relation to where they would cross over the Jordan into the Promised Land, now known as Israel.

21.  What did Balaam say concerning the future of Amalek? vs. 20

22.  What did Balaam say about the future of the Kenite? vs. 21

23.  What did Balaam say about the future of Kain? vs. 22

24.  What did Balaam say regarding those who "live"? vs. 23

25.  How does David explain this to us in Psalm 139:16?

26.  Back to Numbers 24.  Balaam goes on to say that ships will come from the coast of Kittim to afflict both Asshur and Eber who will also come to destruction. (vs.24) ... In these closing words of the last prophecy, Balaam says that all who would join themselves together against the people of God (Israel) would be defeated.  Look at the news today, with all the Arab nations saying "Death to Israel" and "Death to America" ... will they be able to defeat the purposes of God for the nations that honor Him?  I hope America will remain a friend of Israel, but Israel has the Abrahamic covenant that is everlasting for their land.  God is watching over His word to perform it.  Israel's enemies will not have the final say.  God will ! Amen.  Comment on the following verses:

• Psalm 2:1-12 -
• Zechariah 2:8 -
• Isaiah 55:11 -
• Isaiah 54:7 -
• Jeremiah 29:11 -

27.  With these parting words, Balaam returned to his place, and Balak also went his way. (vs. 25)...We would suppose that we have seen the last of Balaam, but Numbers 25 indicates otherwise and in Numbers 31 it is made clear that he was not a true follower of the Lord, but truly a prophet of greed as the New Testament confirms.

28.  Summarize the lesson and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers Chapter 23

Review & Intro:   As we continue the account of Balaam and Balak, we have the king of Moab asking the well-known sorcerer, Balaam, to come and curse the people of Israel, for they are numerous and he fears they will take his land from him.  Balaam was told by God not to go for Israel is blessed.  Yet, Balaam was sent more money and temptation to try to get God to change His mind.  God allowed him to go, but he will make sure that he only says what God wants to say through him.  In this chapter, we see the sovereignty of God in showing Israel that no pagan king and no pagan prophet could lay a finger on the people of God apart from the will of God.  There are times when God judges His people that He will use a pagan king, but it is in His timing and under His watchful care.  His plans for His people cannot be thwarted. Amen.

7 altars are set up for sacrifices on them.  This was a pagan ritual; as we know the Lord's sacrifices were made by the priests and in the tent of meeting.

Numbers Chapter 23 - Observation Questions

1.  What did Balaam ask Balak to do for him? vs. 1

2.  What did Balak & Balaam offer up on each of these altars? vs. 2

3.  Balaam had Balak to stand beside his burnt offering while he went to a bare hill to see if the Lord would come to meet with him to give him words to say. (vs.3) ... God did meet with him, and he told God about the 7 altars with the bull and ram on each altar.  (vs.4) ... The Lord did put a word in Balaam's mouth, so Balaam returned to Balak where he stood beside his burnt offeirng with the leaders of Moab. (vs.5,6) ... The discourse follows in verses 7 - 10. 

4.   Balaam's first oracle (vs.7-10) ... Balak has brought Balaam from Aram, instructing him to curse Israel (vs. 7).... It is impossible for Balaam to grant his request because, as a prophet, he can only echo what God has declared. God has not denounced Israel, so neither can Balaam denounce them (vs.8) .... This is a nation that stands apart from all other nations (vs.9), ... and they will become even greater in number and strength (vs.10a).... Balaam cannot curse them; he even indicates that he wishes he could enter into their blessings, which include a hope that extends beyond the grave (10b).

5.  How did Balak respond to Balaam's first oracle? vs. 11

6.  How did Balaam respond back to him? vs. 12

7.  Balak suggested they try it from another place, so he took Balaam to the field of Zophim, to the top of Mt. Pisgah. (vs.13,14) .....  What did he build there and offer again? vs. 14

Note:  Balaam left Balak beside his burnt offering (again) while he went to meet with the Lord. (vs.15) ... The Lord gave the 2nd oracle to Balaam to deliver to Balak. .. (vs.16)

8.  Where was Balak standing and who was with him when Balaam returned to him? vs. 17

9.  Balaam's second oracle (vs.18-21). ...Balak may be used to giving orders to men, and even to his “gods,” but the God of Israel is different. He is not a man. He does not lie, and He certainly does not break His promises. He does not take orders from men. If God has committed Himself to bless Israel, that is the way it will be (vs.19). Since God has commanded Balaam to bless Israel, he surely cannot reverse it (vs. 20). ... The Lord does not see "misfortune" in Jacob or "trouble" in Israel; the Lord is "with him" and the "shout of a king" is among them. (vs. 21) .... Balak should remember that God defended Israel against her enemies, so that they were invincible. There was no "omen" against Jacob or "divination" against Israel ..... There was no way that Balaam could reverse this to bring about Israel’s downfall. To oppose Israel is to oppose Israel’s God (verses 22-23). In verse 24, there is a future prophecy of how Israel's enemies will be defeated. 

10.  How did Balak respond to the 2nd oracle given? vs. 25

11.  How did Balaam reply back to Balak? vs. 26

12.  Balak wants to change locations one more time to find out if Balaam can get God to agree with him to curse Israel. (vs.27)  Where did Balak take Balaam this time? vs. 28

13.  Once again, what did Balaam have Balak do here? vs. 29-30

Application:

14.  Balaam was a false prophet, as clearly seen from the passages in 2 Peter, Jude, and Revelation.  Yet, the Lord used him to speak forth His blessings upon Israel.  Can a person speak for God when they themselves are not truly believers?  Yes, they can even cast out demons and perform miracles according to what Jesus told His disciples.  Comment on the following verse:

• Matthew 7:15-23 -

15.  Did you receive comfort from the words Balaam spoke on behalf of God - that He is one to lie or change?  His people are secure in His hands and His purposes cannot be thwarted.  Commment on the following verses:

• Hebrews 13:8 -
• Malachi 3:6 -
• Job 42:2 -
• Daniel 4:35 -
• Hebrews 6:7 -
• Romans 8:28 -

16.  In conclusion, Balak wants to try one more time at the peak of Peor.  We will see this is another high place dedicated to the pagan god - Baal.  Once again, God will bless through Balaam and not allow His people to be cursed.  We are not under a curse because Jesus has taken our curse.  Comment on the following verses:

• Galatians 3:13,14 -

17.  Summarize this lesson and post a prayer if you would like.

Numbers Worksheet ~ Numbers, Chapter 22

Review & Intro:  For the third time in the wilderness journey the children of Israel are coming to a rest. They stayed a long time at Sinai; they stayed a long time at Kadesh; now they’ll stay a long time here in the plains of Moab. There are certain resemblances to what happens here as to what happened earlier in those long campsites. Today's lesson shows the certain sovereignty of God and the unshakable certainty of His promise of blessing to His covenant people in the face of the attempt of their enemies to bring to bear a supernatural curse on them.

Numbers Chapter 22 - Observation Questions

1.  The sons of Israel had recently won two victories.  News had spread that they were many and to be feared.  Where did they set up camp next on their journey? vs. 1

2.  The king of Moab was Balak.  He had seen what the Israelites had done to the Amorites (vs.2) ... What made him fear for his own sake? vs.2,3

3.  What did Moab tell the elders of Midian about the sons of Israel? vs. 3,4

4.  Because Balak, the king of Moab, was fearful of Israel, he dediced to get a well-known "diviner" to bring a curse upon them for him.  Who was the man that he sent the request to? vs. 5

5.  Where was this "diviner" from? vs. 5

6.  What was Balak's hope of what Balaam could do for him? vs. 6

7.  What did Balak say he knew to be true about the words of Balaam? vs. 6

8.  The elders of Moab & Midian departed to repeat Balak's word to Balaam.  What did they take in their hands? vs. 7

9.  How did Balaam answer them? vs. 8

10.  God asked Balaam who the men were with him. (vs.9) ... Balaam told him they had been sent from Balak, king of Moab.  He told God that the king wanted him to come and curse the sons of Israel so that he might be able to drive them out of their land. (vs.11) ... What was God's clear answer to him? vs. 12

11.  Balaam arose the next morning and told the men who had come from Balak to return to Moab becaus the Lord had refused to let him go with them. (vs.13) ... The leaders went back and told Balak what Balaam had said. (vs.14) ... What did Balak, king of Moab "do" about it? vs. 15

12.  Have you noticed when you stand firm against the temptations, many times a stronger temptation comes around to wear your resistance down?  What is the Lord's promise concerning temptation?  He will help us endure and find the way of escape.  Do we look for the escape?  Why or why not?  Comment on the verse below:

• 1 Corinthians 10:13 -

13.  What did Balak promise Balaam with the 2nd attempt of more distinguised and numerous representatives? vs. 17

14.  Balaam answers that regardless of what Balak would offer him, he would not be able to overrule God's plan for the Israelites.  It's not that he didn't want the house full of gold and silver, but he did not have the power to overrule God most High. (vs.18) ... Rather than to refuse the men based on God's first "clear NO", he has them spend the night so that he can see what kind of "deal" he might be able to strike with God. (vs.19) ...  The Lord tells him "go ahead" if you want but you will only speak words I tell you to. (vs.20) ... Balaam got up the next day and went with the leaders toward Moab. (vs.21) ...  How did the Lord feel about this and what did He do about it? vs. 22

15.  Balaam was riding on his donkey and his 2 servants were with him. (vs.22)...What did the donkey "see" that the men did not "see"? vs. 23

16.  What did the angel of the Lord have in his hand that caused the donkey to turn away from the road? vs. 23

17.  What did Balaam do to his donkey? vs. 23

18.  Where did the angel of the Lord stand after this? vs. 24

19.  What did the donkey do when she saw the angel of the Lord? vs. 25

20.  What did Balaam do to his donkey again?

21.  Where did the angel of the Lord go after that? vs. 26

22.  Since the donkey could not go to the right or the left, what did she do this time? vs. 27

23.  What did Balaam do to his donkey again? vs. 27

24.  The Lord opened the mouth of the donkey!  What did the donkey say to Balaam? vs. 28

25.  Balaam talked back to the donkey saying that she had made a mockery out of him.  He said if he had a sword in his hand, he would have killed her by then.  (awww....) ...vs.29 ...The donkey reminded him that she had been his donkey all of his life and had never been this way before...(vs.30) ... Then the Lord OPENED the "eyes" of Balaam to see the angel of the Lord standing in the way with his sword drawn.  What did Balaam do at that point? vs. 31

26.  The angel of the Lord said "Why have you struck your donkey these 3 times? ..and then told Balaam he had come out as an "adversary" to him because his ways were contrary to Him (the Lord) ..vs.32 ...He said if his donkey had not turned aside the 3 times, He would have surely killed Balaam and let the donkey live. .. (vs.33) ...

27.  What did Balaam say at that time? vs. 34

28.  What did the angel of the Lord say to Balaam? vs. 35

29.  Where did Balak come out to meet Balaam? vs. 36

30.  Balak wanted to know what took Balaam so long to get there. (vs.37) ... Balaam wanted Balak to know that although he had arrived, he would only be able to speak the word that God put in his mouth. (vs.38).  Where did they go together? vs. 39

31.  Balak sacrificed oxen and sheep to his god (which would be Baal) ... and sent some of the food to Balaam and the leaders who were with him. (vs.40) ... Where did Balak take Balaam the following morning? vs. 41

Note:  From this high place, they could look down and see a portion of the people of Israel, whom Balak wanted Balaam to curse.

Application:

 32.  We will continue the story of Balaam in the next 2 chapters, but at this point, we have seen that he went back and tried to deal with the Lord after the Lord had plainly told him "no".  It might seem that the Lord changed His mind when He told him to go ahead and speak what He gave him to speak, but the bottom line is the Lord knew the heart of Balaam as he knows the heart of us all.  Man may look at the outward appearance, but God looks upons the heart.  Read and comment on the verses below to help us understand exactly what Balaam's heart was like:

• Read 2 Peter 2:1-22 - What is Balaam compared to or given as an example of?
• Read Jude 4-16 - What was Balaam's corruption a warning against?
• Read Revelation 2:12-16 - What was the church at Pergamum to know about Balaam?  This truly tells us what he did in order to get the Lord to judge Israel.

33.  When the Lord would only "bless" Israel through him and not allow a "curse" to come out of his mouth, Balaam led Balak to put a stumbling block to cause Israel to fall into idolatry and immorality.  The Lord had to judge them for those things.  Are we judged (disciplined) by the Lord if we fall into idolatry or immorality?  Comment on the verses below:

• 1 Corinthians 5:11 -
• 1 Corinthians 6:18 -
• 1 Corinthians 10:14 -
• 2 Corinthians 6:16 -
• Ephesians 5:3-12 -
• Colossians 3:5 -7 -
• 1 Timothy 1:8-11 -
• 1 Thessalonians 1:9 -
• 1 John 5:21 -

34.  Summarize the lesson and post a prayer if you would like.