Journal Through the Bible: Week 20 Saturday

Census Abstract segment

Numbers chapter 1

Now that the rules are in place for the new national government it is time to take the census of all the citizens!

Does God make any promises in this chapter?

• Anyone who was not of the tribe of Levi who presumed to touch the tabernacle equipment would be put to death. (The error of Uzza in the time of King David comes to mind.)

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• The New Testament says that all of the heavenly angels are at Jesus' disposal. It also mentions in Revelations that the saints of God (those who have been redeemed by the blood of the lamb) make up His army when He comes to battle Satan and his army of demons.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• God keeps records of each individual, especially those who are His people and are soldiers for His cause. The  Book of Life that records all the names of those who have trusted Jesus as the atonement for sins is just such a book and by it each person will be judged to see if their citizenship is in Heaven. 

Does God issue any commands?

• Moses was told to take the number of every male 20 years old and older by family groups in order to determine the number of men available for battle. God gave specific instructions as to which man of each of the tribes should serve with Moses and Aaron as census officials. Only the tribe of Levi was not to be counted.
• God commanded that the Levites only be responsible for the carrying, setting up, taking down, and packing of the tabernacle and its furnishings.