It appears that there were at least 14 prayers of Moses; which I think I can safely say shows his prayers were more frequent and a more intimate relationship with the Lord than anyone besides David and of course Christ Himself; except perhaps John the Baptist. Exodus 33:11 speaks of the uniqueness of Moses who spoke face to face with the Lord and even got to view him from afar (his back quarters) in Exodus 33:20-23. We do well to "camp out" on these prayers to learn something about humility as we see was part of Moses' character; as well as his two faults listed in scripture.
Going back into history a bit; we can see through the prayers for offspring of Abraham and Sarah; and that of a wife for Isaac that the entire Biblical lineage as well as the foundation of the patriarchs who constituted the beginnings of the nation of Israel to come much later were established. We go further to Joseph who oddly enough from what I can see doesn't have any prayers listed although certainly lived a faithful existence. With Abraham we have promises of freedom of captivity after 400 years ( Genesis 15:13) which was finally coming to fruition with Moses being God's chosen vessel for this undertaking. Now we had an entire nation of Jews along with a multitude of others along with untold women and children exiting Egypt and basically wandering in the desert; punished by God so that only Joshua and Caleb remained of the original generation to be accompanied by the next generation. It is noteable that Moses' prayer or plea to God to enter the Promised Land was rejected; although He was allowed to view it from afar. ( Deut. 32:52). This was due to his sin at Meribeh ( Numbers 20:13-15). Moses only had one other sin listed; that of killing the Egyptian back before his own 40 years of exile and hiding in Exodus 2:12.
Themes of prayer for a corporate body in Exodus remind us of prayers needed for the church at large. We also need leaders today like this
The first 9 verses discuss 4 horses which are likely the same spiritual entities listed in Revelation. The white horse is described as going with the black horse and somehow "quieting my spirit" in the north country. This seems to be referring to the angel himself; likely a scenario at that time with nations attempting to intrude from the north. Verse 10 mentions people coming out of captivity; which is somewhat paralleled in recent years with the Jews coming from Russia and other areas; and fulfilled completely during the Millennium after the Tribulation when captives are freed.
Verses 11-15 discuss crowning Joshua; but then mention the final fulfillment with "The BRANCH" starting in verse 12. The Messianic rule is clear here with the building of the Millennial Temple (verses 12-13); and the O.T. saints crowned as a "memorial" verse 14. Finally; verse 15 shows people from far off (probably nations throughout the world) and indicates these things happen "if ye will diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God." (v. 15).
We can see from this near and far fulfillments; as well as conditionally what would have perhaps been sooner in coming to pass with continual obedience; which of course is impossible in the law. We certainly can learn today to continue to be salt and light ( Matt. 5:13-14) so as not to allow spiritual decay farther before the Lord's return. Christ was necessary to fulfill the role of Priest for our justification but also wat the final Prophet as well as the King of Kings. Scripture demonstrates that the most godly have from time to time fallen short ( Numbers 20:10-13; Matthew 11:3). The Lord wishes to move in His Body the church but will withdraw His candlestick when we fall short ( Revelation 2:5).
Study Ezekiel 40-48 for further insights on the Millennial Temple as well as changes on the earth at that time.
Job knew that. Abraham knew that. Moses knew that. Aaron knew that. Miriam must have known that. Physical death will come to us, but eternal life will continue our life after death. This eternal life is from God and not a natural life that everyone has. Only the elect.
Some people do know that they will soon die. The very aged, those with a terminal illness, those who face martyrdom, or who are engaged in combat. Each person will face this reality in different ways, but God continues to desire for the salvation of people, so He continues to work in the hearts of all people until death takes them. If they turn to God, they will be saved forever. if they refuse to do so, they will be damned forever. So, it is important for us to minister to those near death until the end, if we are able to be involved in the process with them. We are to continue to pray for them until the very end, as David did for his infant son. But when death takes the ones we love, we then entrust them into God's wise and just hands believing that he will always judge rightly. We do not need to pray for these loved ones once they have died. But we can certainly pray and minister to the ones left behind. There can often be open doors for proclamation of the gospel at such times. Sensitivity is important, but we should also be bold enough to speak as the Spirit leads us to do so.
Miriam and Aaron had easy deaths, it seems. The text does not say that either had illnesses or other factors that would lead to death. Just their advanced age and God's decree that they would die in the wilderness. The 40 years was up, as God had ordained. They must have known that they would die soon and that the people would enter the promised land soon without them. They were gathered to their people-to Abraham, to Job, to Noah, to Isaac, to Jacob, to Joseph, and all of the others who had gone before them believing God. And their faith was counted unto them as righteousness ( Romans 4).
The next section tells of Moses sending messengers to the king of Edom (Esau's descendants) asking for permission for the Israelites to pass through their lands on the way to the place they would go to enter the promised land. This would be going north on the eastern side of the Jordan River where Canaan and Edom bordered one another. Edom's king refused to allow this passage, coming out against the nation of Israel keeping them from passing through. The people travel from Kadesh eastward to Mount Hor.
The narrative shifts to God speaking to Moses that Aaron would soon die and therefore, Aaron must pass the rights, vestments, and obligations of the High Priesthood onto his son, Eliazar. So the three went up upon the mountain. Moses took the garments from Aaron and put them on Eleazar. Then Aaron died right there. He knew he was going to die. He knew his time in this life was up. He, too, must have looked forward to Christ as Moses did, knowing that there is an eternal land ahead for him.
It says that Aaron was to not enter the physical land because of sinning with Moses at the event when the water came from the rock again miraculously. But I do think also that Aaron was of the generation that was to die in the wilderness and not enter the land. Only Caleb and Joshua were said to be the ones of their generation to enter the land. So, neither Moses, nor Aaron expected to enter the physical land because they believed what God had prophesied to them on this matter.
When the people were informed of Aaron's death they mourned him for 30 days. Aaron must have been buried by Moses and Eleazar with the rest of the Israelites not knowing where his grave was located since only the three went up the mountain.
This chapter reminds me that we will all die. We do not know how much time we have left. But we can be confident that we will live eternally with God, even if we die physically. We know we will be resurrected on the last day.
Moses and Aaron went before the Lord at the entrance to the tabernacle and the glory of the Lord appeared to them, instructing Moses to take the rod (of Aaron) and SPEAK to THE rock before them. Was this a natural rock that was already in this wilderness or was this a rock that they carried with them throughout the wilderness journey? ( 1Cor. 10:4 says that the spiritual rock followed them; which was Christ)
Moses and Aaron then went out to the people. Moses derides the people angrily and strikes the rock twice. Water flows from it miraculously. God disciplines Moses for sinning in the way he carried out God's instructions. God did not tell Moses to strike the rock, just speak to it. Perhaps Moses had thought that since he had struck the rock the first time ( Exodus 17) that that is the way he was to always do this. God did not tell Moses to scold the people in anger. Unfortunately, Moses sinned by not following the exact instructions of God, but added to what God had told him to do. Moses credited himself to be the one to bring water out of the rock rather than give God the credit and glory for it alone. He did not sanctify God in this instance before the people fo Israel.
The result of this sin was that Moses would not enter the promised land. Moses did not argue with God. He did not bargain with Him. Nor did he intercede for himself. He accepted the will of God. He knew that there was an eternal promised land (like Abraham) he would enter that was better than the physical land. ( Hebrews 11:39-40) Moses knew of the Messiah, the gospel that that would come from Him, and the salvation that he would receive from Him ( Gal. 3:8).
So here, as in Exodus, the waters of Meribah were bitter-sweet. Bitter because the people received discipline from God, but sweet, because God was merciful towards them and provided the water they sorely needed.
Moses must have known that his life was coming to an end soon.
In this chapter we hear of the deaths of both Miriam and Aaron. They did not enter the promised land as they were of the generation that came out of Egypt that were to wander in desert for 40 years.
The Israelites came into the Wilderness of Zin (again) in the first month (the beginning of the year in Spring). 40 years earlier they were there where the twelve spies were sent out and the people sinned in disbelief of God and His promises due to the evil report of the spies. As a result, the generation that left from Egypt was to die in the wilderness and not enter the promised land.
Once they had settled in this wilderness (Kadesh) Miriam died She was buried and the people mourned for her.
Now, forty years later, they come again to the Wilderness of Zin, the place of great rebellion against God, and the people grumble against God, Moses and Aaron again because there was no water for them. They were sure that God had brought them out of Egypt here to die of thirst. Again, they distrusted God and doubted His benevolence towards them and His power to sustain them in this situation. Once before ( Exodus 17) there was no water and the people grumbled against God an Moses. God instructed Moses to strike a rock and when he did water flowed out of it plentifully. God had provided water before, why would they think He would not do so again?
The land was barren. No place was found for seed or fruits or vines to grow. This area was a deep cleft in the terrain with high cliffs on all sides. It was very rugged territory. The people called it an evil place. Did they not know how close they were to the Promised Land that the spies had explored 40 years earlier? Did they not know that if they believed God and trusted in His goodness they would soon go into the land promised? If God had miraculously given them manna and quail all of these years without fail, why would they think He would not also give them water miraculously again?
About that incident at the waters of Meribeh, I am sure you know that there is a more detailed account of it in Numbers 20:1-13. Although it is not that clear what caused God to be angry with Moses and Aaron, the verses in Psalms 106:32-33 may be the answer, "They (multitude) angered him (Moses) also at the waters of strife, so that it went ill with Moses for their sakes: Because they provoked his spirit, so that he spake unadvisedly with his lips.". What was it that Moses had said that was not right? In Numbers 20:10 we read, "And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, YE REBELS; must we fetch you water out of this rock?". This is not a way a shepherd (pastor, elder or any spiritual leader) talks to their sheep. Jesus never said that sort of things to Judas, "You thief ...".He never revealed Judas' stealing to the other disciples, never insulted or spoke bad to him, but waited patiently for and tried to do anyhing He could to make Judas return from his sinful way and repent. A shepherd must be very careful how they behave and talk to their sheep, they must glorify God with their behavior and also with the way they talk, properly like a saint talks. This is the best interpretation of that incident I have heard so far. GBU
Moses controlled the sea by order of GOD. Exodus 14:15-31,
Other times, Joshua 3, 2Kings 2:8, 2Kings 2:14, Mark 4,
Exodus 17:6, note Numbers 20:7-12, GOD even gave them the power & authority to just speak to the water to come forth, matter of fact; it was an Order, & because it wasn't followed it was counted against them.
Numbers 20:7-12, is a portion of the whole story & reason.
Let's look at the bigger picture:
Numbers 20:12, please note it says "Because you believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore._._" , Please read Exodus, Moses' doubts: Exodus 3:11,13, Exodus 4:1,3,10,14, Exodus 4:24-26, Exodus 5:22, Exodus 6:12, Exodus 6:30, Exodus 14:11-15, Exodus 16:2-28, Exodus 17:2-7, Exodus 32:11-19,30,31,32,33, Exodus 33:1-3, Numbers 11:1-15, mercy ( Numbers 11:16-20,) Numbers 11:21-23, * Numbers 13, Numbers 13:30,31,32, * Numbers 14, very significant I believe, when they were supposed to take the promised land please read Numbers chapters 13 & 14, & notice: Numbers 13:30, Numbers 14:24, Numbers 14:22-23,
I believe that this would be the passages your thinking of.
Numbers 20:7-12, 10"And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock?" 12 "And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them."
Great work! Just wanted to I understand the view as you stated it, Moses was supposed to speak to the rock the second time, Christ was the rock 1 Corinthians 10-4. Moses was to smite the rock in Exodus 17:6. And speak to it in Numbers 20:8-11. It seems in verse 10 Moses shows frustration and says "Hear now, ye rebels; must "WE" fetch you waters out of this rock?
I believe he misrepresented the Lord and made it look like theLord was angry. But to fulfill the type, if the rock was Christ scripture says it pleased the Lord to bruise him. And then we come to Numbers 20:12.
GOD had said "If the men come to call the" the previous verse Numbers 22:19, he had told them to "tarry ye here this night, that I may know what the LORD will say unto me more" Those guys were already there, Balaam didn't wait. GOD has specific instructions at times especially for HIS prophets. Note: Numbers 20:7-12,
Numbers 22:32-34, Numbers 22:35 given the o.k. to go
I've wondered that too. GOD directs some people to do out of the ordinary things & out of the ordinary things happen when they've done what GOD directed them to do. I think we're thinking too much into it like 'if we tried it will it work' here's some other examples
Exodus 17:6, Numbers 20:1-11, notice Numbers 20:8 GOD said "speak to the rock" , Numbers 20:12, Numbers 13 & 14,
10 A river went out of Eden to water the garden and from there it divided into four streams.11 The name of the first is Pishon; it winds throughout the land of Havilah, where there is gold.12 The gold of that land is good; aromatic resin and onyx stone are also found there.13 The name of the second river is Gichon;it winds throughout the land of Kush.14The name of the third river is Tigris;it is the one that flows toward the east of Ashur.The fourth river is the Euphrates.
The river that went out of Eden to water the garden was the river of the water of life, sparkling like crystal,flowing from the throne of GOD.It was an heavenly and wide and larger river, and this river exists until the current time and will exist for ever and ever,to the Eternity.
And the river of life divided in four streams, the water continues excelent, sparkling like crystal, and also gives life because the waters also flow from GOD's Throne to the river of the water of life, and after to the four streams,and the first stream is Pishon, something a rationed water for consumption,destined for a few, and not for all without exception. The majority did not have access to this pure water.I'm talking about the Word of God that was revealed during the Old Testament, from Moses to John the Baptist.Ah, the only peoples that benefited from this water was Israel,all other people did not have direct access to this pure and crystaline water.Read Numbers 20:1-29 and see the events caused because of this water.
The 2nd stream is the river Gichon.This is the water of life pure and crystaline from God's Throne for all nations through JESUS in the New Testament.JESUS said:whoever drinks the water I will give him will never be thirsty again!On the contrary,the water I give him will become a spring of water inside him, welling up into eternal life!"Jo.4:14
The 3rd stream is Tigris.Its water will be given now in this millennial Kingdom.
It seems that the priesthood in the camps of Moses are like the Egyptians full of money power and traditions and fine clothes which is like future priests of Israel corrupt and self made
You would have to ignore and reject the reason given to hold that view,
Numbers 20:11-12. And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also.
And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.
It is indeed sad to read Deuteronomy 3:26 with Moses feeling cut off from the Lord. All he wanted was to enter the Promised Land which he yearned for but was denied this before his death. And so it is when we enter into a state of wilful disobedience, grieving the Lord, especially when that disobedience is prompted by unrighteous anger & self-elevation ( Numbers 20:7-13).
And then we read Deuteronomy 4:21-31, a part of Moses' final message to the children of Israel. We do read here of Moses' warning to them if they should reject the Lord by serving other gods. That if they did so, God would reject them by scattering them amongst the nations (as happened in the Assyrian & Babylonian captivity and also at the Jewish Diaspora resulting from Roman rule). So yes, this was a prophetical message by Moses, which ultimately Israel did not heed & so suffered terribly. But Moses also rehearsed before the people of God's goodness towards them in bringing them out of bondage in Egypt & into a land that flowed with milk & honey ( Exodus 3:16,17; Deuteronomy 1:6-8), but this generally came with a warning to remain faithful to the Lord.
The Torah is Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy, the first five books of The Bible written by Moses by inspiration of The Holy Spirit.
Have you NOT read the Torah? I probably have read Leviticus the least. I'm currently in a Bible study on Genesis. But I've read through these books many times over the years.
Many significant things to me: a very few of them are...
Abraham believed God and it was reckoned to him as righteousness. Genesis 15:6
Moses intercedes for his people Exodus 33:12-23 "My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest."
Sevenfold curses for Israel's rebellion Leviticus 26
Moses strikes the rock twice. Oops! Numbers 20:10-13
How can we know if a prophet speaks from God Deuteronomy 18:15-22
It is interesting to note that while God would not allow Moses to enter into the Promised Land along with the Israelites because of his disobedience, that Moses did eventually enter on the Mount of Transfiguration when he appeared alongside Elijah and with Jesus on that mount. He may yet appear a second time when the two witnesses show up during the Tribulation period, maybe again with Elijah - the two who represent the Law (Moses) and the Prophets (Elijah).
We understand from Numbers 20:7-13, that Moses disobeyed God at the waters of Meribah by striking & not speaking to the rock to bring out much needed water. As well, there seems to be a failure by Moses to give God the Glory for this miracle & allowed the people to assume that it was done in his own power. So Moses was prevented from entering the Promised Land but could only view it afar off ( Deut 34) & died there on top of Mt. Pisgah & God buried him in the land of Moab, in a place not revealed (v6).
We must remember the curse of enmity in Genesis 3:15 applies to anger and God is the God of peace. The anger of Moses played against his humbleness of heart and his discourse was not something God was proud to observe while giving life with water to the people and their animals.
God told Moses to 'speak' to the rock. But Moses disobeyed God and hit the rock with his rod. It still brought out water but for this God told Moses he would not go into the promised land.
Numbers 20:11 Moses struck the rock twice, that is a symbol of Christ being crucified on the cross twice. Not good, for that reason Moses didn't go into the promise land.
It appears that there were at least 14 prayers of Moses; which I think I can safely say shows his prayers were more frequent and a more intimate relationship with the Lord than anyone besides David and of course Christ Himself; except perhaps John the Baptist. Exodus 33:11 speaks of the uniqueness of Moses who spoke face to face with the Lord and even got to view him from afar (his back quarters) in Exodus 33:20-23. We do well to "camp out" on these prayers to learn something about humility as we see was part of Moses' character; as well as his two faults listed in scripture.
Going back into history a bit; we can see through the prayers for offspring of Abraham and Sarah; and that of a wife for Isaac that the entire Biblical lineage as well as the foundation of the patriarchs who constituted the beginnings of the nation of Israel to come much later were established. We go further to Joseph who oddly enough from what I can see doesn't have any prayers listed although certainly lived a faithful existence. With Abraham we have promises of freedom of captivity after 400 years ( Genesis 15:13) which was finally coming to fruition with Moses being God's chosen vessel for this undertaking. Now we had an entire nation of Jews along with a multitude of others along with untold women and children exiting Egypt and basically wandering in the desert; punished by God so that only Joshua and Caleb remained of the original generation to be accompanied by the next generation. It is noteable that Moses' prayer or plea to God to enter the Promised Land was rejected; although He was allowed to view it from afar. ( Deut. 32:52). This was due to his sin at Meribeh ( Numbers 20:13-15). Moses only had one other sin listed; that of killing the Egyptian back before his own 40 years of exile and hiding in Exodus 2:12.
Themes of prayer for a corporate body in Exodus remind us of prayers needed for the church at large. We also need leaders today like this
The first 9 verses discuss 4 horses which are likely the same spiritual entities listed in Revelation. The white horse is described as going with the black horse and somehow "quieting my spirit" in the north country. This seems to be referring to the angel himself; likely a scenario at that time with nations attempting to intrude from the north. Verse 10 mentions people coming out of captivity; which is somewhat paralleled in recent years with the Jews coming from Russia and other areas; and fulfilled completely during the Millennium after the Tribulation when captives are freed.
Verses 11-15 discuss crowning Joshua; but then mention the final fulfillment with "The BRANCH" starting in verse 12. The Messianic rule is clear here with the building of the Millennial Temple (verses 12-13); and the O.T. saints crowned as a "memorial" verse 14. Finally; verse 15 shows people from far off (probably nations throughout the world) and indicates these things happen "if ye will diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God." (v. 15).
We can see from this near and far fulfillments; as well as conditionally what would have perhaps been sooner in coming to pass with continual obedience; which of course is impossible in the law. We certainly can learn today to continue to be salt and light ( Matt. 5:13-14) so as not to allow spiritual decay farther before the Lord's return. Christ was necessary to fulfill the role of Priest for our justification but also wat the final Prophet as well as the King of Kings. Scripture demonstrates that the most godly have from time to time fallen short ( Numbers 20:10-13; Matthew 11:3). The Lord wishes to move in His Body the church but will withdraw His candlestick when we fall short ( Revelation 2:5).
Study Ezekiel 40-48 for further insights on the Millennial Temple as well as changes on the earth at that time.
CONT...
Job knew that. Abraham knew that. Moses knew that. Aaron knew that. Miriam must have known that. Physical death will come to us, but eternal life will continue our life after death. This eternal life is from God and not a natural life that everyone has. Only the elect.
Some people do know that they will soon die. The very aged, those with a terminal illness, those who face martyrdom, or who are engaged in combat. Each person will face this reality in different ways, but God continues to desire for the salvation of people, so He continues to work in the hearts of all people until death takes them. If they turn to God, they will be saved forever. if they refuse to do so, they will be damned forever. So, it is important for us to minister to those near death until the end, if we are able to be involved in the process with them. We are to continue to pray for them until the very end, as David did for his infant son. But when death takes the ones we love, we then entrust them into God's wise and just hands believing that he will always judge rightly. We do not need to pray for these loved ones once they have died. But we can certainly pray and minister to the ones left behind. There can often be open doors for proclamation of the gospel at such times. Sensitivity is important, but we should also be bold enough to speak as the Spirit leads us to do so.
Miriam and Aaron had easy deaths, it seems. The text does not say that either had illnesses or other factors that would lead to death. Just their advanced age and God's decree that they would die in the wilderness. The 40 years was up, as God had ordained. They must have known that they would die soon and that the people would enter the promised land soon without them. They were gathered to their people-to Abraham, to Job, to Noah, to Isaac, to Jacob, to Joseph, and all of the others who had gone before them believing God. And their faith was counted unto them as righteousness ( Romans 4).
Cont...
The next section tells of Moses sending messengers to the king of Edom (Esau's descendants) asking for permission for the Israelites to pass through their lands on the way to the place they would go to enter the promised land. This would be going north on the eastern side of the Jordan River where Canaan and Edom bordered one another. Edom's king refused to allow this passage, coming out against the nation of Israel keeping them from passing through. The people travel from Kadesh eastward to Mount Hor.
The narrative shifts to God speaking to Moses that Aaron would soon die and therefore, Aaron must pass the rights, vestments, and obligations of the High Priesthood onto his son, Eliazar. So the three went up upon the mountain. Moses took the garments from Aaron and put them on Eleazar. Then Aaron died right there. He knew he was going to die. He knew his time in this life was up. He, too, must have looked forward to Christ as Moses did, knowing that there is an eternal land ahead for him.
It says that Aaron was to not enter the physical land because of sinning with Moses at the event when the water came from the rock again miraculously. But I do think also that Aaron was of the generation that was to die in the wilderness and not enter the land. Only Caleb and Joshua were said to be the ones of their generation to enter the land. So, neither Moses, nor Aaron expected to enter the physical land because they believed what God had prophesied to them on this matter.
When the people were informed of Aaron's death they mourned him for 30 days. Aaron must have been buried by Moses and Eleazar with the rest of the Israelites not knowing where his grave was located since only the three went up the mountain.
This chapter reminds me that we will all die. We do not know how much time we have left. But we can be confident that we will live eternally with God, even if we die physically. We know we will be resurrected on the last day.
Continued....
Moses and Aaron went before the Lord at the entrance to the tabernacle and the glory of the Lord appeared to them, instructing Moses to take the rod (of Aaron) and SPEAK to THE rock before them. Was this a natural rock that was already in this wilderness or was this a rock that they carried with them throughout the wilderness journey? ( 1Cor. 10:4 says that the spiritual rock followed them; which was Christ)
Moses and Aaron then went out to the people. Moses derides the people angrily and strikes the rock twice. Water flows from it miraculously. God disciplines Moses for sinning in the way he carried out God's instructions. God did not tell Moses to strike the rock, just speak to it. Perhaps Moses had thought that since he had struck the rock the first time ( Exodus 17) that that is the way he was to always do this. God did not tell Moses to scold the people in anger. Unfortunately, Moses sinned by not following the exact instructions of God, but added to what God had told him to do. Moses credited himself to be the one to bring water out of the rock rather than give God the credit and glory for it alone. He did not sanctify God in this instance before the people fo Israel.
The result of this sin was that Moses would not enter the promised land. Moses did not argue with God. He did not bargain with Him. Nor did he intercede for himself. He accepted the will of God. He knew that there was an eternal promised land (like Abraham) he would enter that was better than the physical land. ( Hebrews 11:39-40) Moses knew of the Messiah, the gospel that that would come from Him, and the salvation that he would receive from Him ( Gal. 3:8).
So here, as in Exodus, the waters of Meribah were bitter-sweet. Bitter because the people received discipline from God, but sweet, because God was merciful towards them and provided the water they sorely needed.
Moses must have known that his life was coming to an end soon.
In this chapter we hear of the deaths of both Miriam and Aaron. They did not enter the promised land as they were of the generation that came out of Egypt that were to wander in desert for 40 years.
The Israelites came into the Wilderness of Zin (again) in the first month (the beginning of the year in Spring). 40 years earlier they were there where the twelve spies were sent out and the people sinned in disbelief of God and His promises due to the evil report of the spies. As a result, the generation that left from Egypt was to die in the wilderness and not enter the promised land.
Once they had settled in this wilderness (Kadesh) Miriam died She was buried and the people mourned for her.
Now, forty years later, they come again to the Wilderness of Zin, the place of great rebellion against God, and the people grumble against God, Moses and Aaron again because there was no water for them. They were sure that God had brought them out of Egypt here to die of thirst. Again, they distrusted God and doubted His benevolence towards them and His power to sustain them in this situation. Once before ( Exodus 17) there was no water and the people grumbled against God an Moses. God instructed Moses to strike a rock and when he did water flowed out of it plentifully. God had provided water before, why would they think He would not do so again?
The land was barren. No place was found for seed or fruits or vines to grow. This area was a deep cleft in the terrain with high cliffs on all sides. It was very rugged territory. The people called it an evil place. Did they not know how close they were to the Promised Land that the spies had explored 40 years earlier? Did they not know that if they believed God and trusted in His goodness they would soon go into the land promised? If God had miraculously given them manna and quail all of these years without fail, why would they think He would not also give them water miraculously again?
About that incident at the waters of Meribeh, I am sure you know that there is a more detailed account of it in Numbers 20:1-13. Although it is not that clear what caused God to be angry with Moses and Aaron, the verses in Psalms 106:32-33 may be the answer, "They (multitude) angered him (Moses) also at the waters of strife, so that it went ill with Moses for their sakes: Because they provoked his spirit, so that he spake unadvisedly with his lips.". What was it that Moses had said that was not right? In Numbers 20:10 we read, "And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, YE REBELS; must we fetch you water out of this rock?". This is not a way a shepherd (pastor, elder or any spiritual leader) talks to their sheep. Jesus never said that sort of things to Judas, "You thief ...".He never revealed Judas' stealing to the other disciples, never insulted or spoke bad to him, but waited patiently for and tried to do anyhing He could to make Judas return from his sinful way and repent. A shepherd must be very careful how they behave and talk to their sheep, they must glorify God with their behavior and also with the way they talk, properly like a saint talks. This is the best interpretation of that incident I have heard so far. GBU
Other times, Joshua 3, 2Kings 2:8, 2Kings 2:14, Mark 4,
Exodus 17:6, note Numbers 20:7-12, GOD even gave them the power & authority to just speak to the water to come forth, matter of fact; it was an Order, & because it wasn't followed it was counted against them.
Mark 9:23, Luke 18:27, Mark 10:27, Matthew 19:26,
James 4:1-3,
Hopefully these scriptures are helpful
Numbers 20:7-12, is a portion of the whole story & reason.
Let's look at the bigger picture:
Numbers 20:12, please note it says "Because you believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore._._" , Please read Exodus, Moses' doubts: Exodus 3:11,13, Exodus 4:1,3,10,14, Exodus 4:24-26, Exodus 5:22, Exodus 6:12, Exodus 6:30, Exodus 14:11-15, Exodus 16:2-28, Exodus 17:2-7, Exodus 32:11-19,30,31,32,33, Exodus 33:1-3, Numbers 11:1-15, mercy ( Numbers 11:16-20,) Numbers 11:21-23, * Numbers 13, Numbers 13:30,31,32, * Numbers 14, very significant I believe, when they were supposed to take the promised land please read Numbers chapters 13 & 14, & notice: Numbers 13:30, Numbers 14:24, Numbers 14:22-23,
Psalms 95:6-11, note Psalms 95:10-11,
Hebrews 3:5-19, Luke 13:24, Mark 10:15,
Hopefully this is helpful
Numbers 20:7-12, 10"And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock?" 12 "And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them."
numbers 20:8-11
Great work! Just wanted to I understand the view as you stated it, Moses was supposed to speak to the rock the second time, Christ was the rock 1 Corinthians 10-4. Moses was to smite the rock in Exodus 17:6. And speak to it in Numbers 20:8-11. It seems in verse 10 Moses shows frustration and says "Hear now, ye rebels; must "WE" fetch you waters out of this rock?
I believe he misrepresented the Lord and made it look like theLord was angry. But to fulfill the type, if the rock was Christ scripture says it pleased the Lord to bruise him. And then we come to Numbers 20:12.
Thanks.
God bless.
Vr 6 = Deuteronomy 23:3-6, Numbers 20:18-22, Numbers 24:18, Judges 11:17, 1 Kings 11:14, 2 Kings 3, 2 Kings 8:20,
Vrs. 5 & 6 = 2 Kings 8:22,
Vrs 6 & 7 = 1 Samuel 14:47,
Ezekiel 25:12, Joel 3:19, Amos 1:9,
Vrs 9 = Numbers 31:3-9, Joshua 13:21-32,
Vrs 11 = Judges 7:25, vrs 6 & 11 = Judges 8,
1 Chronicles 18:11, 1 Chronicles 18, whole chapter, 2 Chronicles 25:20-24,
Hopefully these are helpful in your study
Deuteronomy 32:45-52, Deuteronomy 33:1, Deuteronomy 34:1-8, Jude 1:9,
Hopefully these are helpful
GOD had said "If the men come to call the" the previous verse Numbers 22:19, he had told them to "tarry ye here this night, that I may know what the LORD will say unto me more" Those guys were already there, Balaam didn't wait. GOD has specific instructions at times especially for HIS prophets. Note: Numbers 20:7-12,
Numbers 22:32-34, Numbers 22:35 given the o.k. to go
Hopefully this is helpful.
Numbers 14:31-33*, read all of Numbers 14, Numbers 20:12, Acts 7:40-43, Hebrews 8:9,
Hopefully this is helpful & adds well to your discussion.
Exodus 17:6, Numbers 20:1-11, notice Numbers 20:8 GOD said "speak to the rock" , Numbers 20:12, Numbers 13 & 14,
Genesis 31:12,
10 A river went out of Eden to water the garden and from there it divided into four streams.11 The name of the first is Pishon; it winds throughout the land of Havilah, where there is gold.12 The gold of that land is good; aromatic resin and onyx stone are also found there.13 The name of the second river is Gichon;it winds throughout the land of Kush.14The name of the third river is Tigris;it is the one that flows toward the east of Ashur.The fourth river is the Euphrates.
The river that went out of Eden to water the garden was the river of the water of life, sparkling like crystal,flowing from the throne of GOD.It was an heavenly and wide and larger river, and this river exists until the current time and will exist for ever and ever,to the Eternity.
And the river of life divided in four streams, the water continues excelent, sparkling like crystal, and also gives life because the waters also flow from GOD's Throne to the river of the water of life, and after to the four streams,and the first stream is Pishon, something a rationed water for consumption,destined for a few, and not for all without exception. The majority did not have access to this pure water.I'm talking about the Word of God that was revealed during the Old Testament, from Moses to John the Baptist.Ah, the only peoples that benefited from this water was Israel,all other people did not have direct access to this pure and crystaline water.Read Numbers 20:1-29 and see the events caused because of this water.
The 2nd stream is the river Gichon.This is the water of life pure and crystaline from God's Throne for all nations through JESUS in the New Testament.JESUS said:whoever drinks the water I will give him will never be thirsty again!On the contrary,the water I give him will become a spring of water inside him, welling up into eternal life!"Jo.4:14
The 3rd stream is Tigris.Its water will be given now in this millennial Kingdom.
The 4th stream is Euphrates,after millnnial kin
You would have to ignore and reject the reason given to hold that view,
Numbers 20:11-12. And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also.
And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.
God bless.
Deuteronomy 8:3 ...neither did thy fathers know;
Genesis 15:15 And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace;
Genesis 47:9 ...have not attained unto the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage.
Genesis 48:21 unto the land of your fathers
Numbers 20:15 How our fathers went down into Egypt, and we have dwelt in Egypt a long time; and the Egyptians vexed us, and our fathers:
...
Who are these Fathers? any special meaning?
And then we read Deuteronomy 4:21-31, a part of Moses' final message to the children of Israel. We do read here of Moses' warning to them if they should reject the Lord by serving other gods. That if they did so, God would reject them by scattering them amongst the nations (as happened in the Assyrian & Babylonian captivity and also at the Jewish Diaspora resulting from Roman rule). So yes, this was a prophetical message by Moses, which ultimately Israel did not heed & so suffered terribly. But Moses also rehearsed before the people of God's goodness towards them in bringing them out of bondage in Egypt & into a land that flowed with milk & honey ( Exodus 3:16,17; Deuteronomy 1:6-8), but this generally came with a warning to remain faithful to the Lord.
Have you NOT read the Torah? I probably have read Leviticus the least. I'm currently in a Bible study on Genesis. But I've read through these books many times over the years.
Many significant things to me: a very few of them are...
Abraham believed God and it was reckoned to him as righteousness. Genesis 15:6
Moses intercedes for his people Exodus 33:12-23 "My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest."
Sevenfold curses for Israel's rebellion Leviticus 26
Moses strikes the rock twice. Oops! Numbers 20:10-13
How can we know if a prophet speaks from God Deuteronomy 18:15-22