Journal Through the Bible: Week 25 Wednesday

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Numbers chapter 31

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God commanded Moses to lead the army of Israelites against the Midianites before his death. Every tribe sent 1,000 men armed for war. They killed the kings of Midian and Balaam the son of Beor that caused the Israelites to sin.
• The warriors, their captives, and the spoils had to be purified through fire and water.
• Spoils were to be divided between those who went to war and the rest of the congregation. Then a tribute was made to God by offering to the tabernacle: 1/500 from the men of war and 1/50 from the rest of the congregation.

Does God make any promises?

• No, but He kept a prior promise to them to fight their battles for them. Not one Israelite killed in the battle. (The men were so grateful that they brought gold and jewels as a memorial offering.)

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• It isn't mentioned in this chapter, but it was stated in previous readings that the Angel of the LORD would go before them into battle. This Angel is believed to be Jesus.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• The future principle is that right now this earth is populated by the enemies of the LORD. Someday Jesus will lead His army into battle and redeem the earth. This will usher in the New Earth that only God's people will inherit.