How does Numbers 22:6 connect to Jesus' teachings on loving enemies? The Setting: Balak’s Request in Numbers 22:6 “‘Come now, please curse this people for me, for they are too powerful for me. Perhaps I will be able to defeat them and drive them out of the land. For I know that whomever you bless is blessed, and whomever you curse is cursed.’” (Numbers 22:6) What Balak Wanted • A supernatural weapon: a spoken curse to weaken Israel. • A reversal of God’s covenant promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:3) that those who curse Israel would themselves be cursed. • A worldly logic: harm your enemy before he harms you. How God Responded • He blocked Balaam from speaking a curse, turning intended curses into blessings (Numbers 23:11–12; 24:10). • He upheld His promise and protected His people without Israel ever lifting a sword in this episode. • He showcased that His word overrides human schemes. Jesus’ Teaching: The Radical Call to Love Enemies “‘You have heard that it was said, “Love your neighbor” and “Hate your enemy.” But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…’” (Matthew 5:43–44) “‘Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.’” (Luke 6:28) Connecting the Dots • Numbers 22 illustrates humanity’s instinct to weaponize words against foes; Jesus commands the opposite—use words to bless. • Balak’s strategy—curse enemies to secure victory—reveals fear and self-reliance; Jesus’ strategy—love enemies—reveals faith in the Father’s justice and sovereignty. • God protected Israel without retaliatory curses. That same divine pattern undergirds Jesus’ instruction: trust God to vindicate (Romans 12:17–21). • The failed cursing of Israel foreshadows Christ absorbing every curse on the cross (Galatians 3:13) so believers can freely bless even hostile opponents. Practicing the Lesson Today • Choose blessing over cursing when wronged—mirror God’s own response in Numbers 22 and Christ’s words in Matthew 5. • Pray specific good for adversaries; Balaam’s mouth was forced to bless—our redeemed mouths should willingly bless (1 Peter 3:9). • Rest in God’s covenant care; if He could overturn Balak’s hired curses, He can handle the backlash of those we choose to love. |
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