How does Moses' request in Numbers 27:15 demonstrate his leadership qualities? Text for Study “Then Moses said to the LORD, ‘May the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who will go out and come in before them and bring them out and bring them in, so that the congregation of the LORD will not be like sheep without a shepherd.’ ” Snapshot of the Moment • Israel is poised to enter Canaan. • Moses has just heard that he will view the land but not cross over (vv. 12–14). • Instead of pleading for himself, he turns immediately to the welfare of the people. Leadership Qualities Revealed in Moses’ Request • Unselfish Concern – Facing personal disappointment, Moses thinks first of Israel’s future. – Philippians 2:4 echoes this attitude: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” • Reliance on God’s Authority – He does not name a successor; he asks the LORD to choose. – Shows humility and recognition that ultimate leadership comes from God (Psalm 75:6–7). • Shepherd’s Heart – His language “sheep without a shepherd” portrays deep pastoral care (cf. Matthew 9:36). – He wants a leader who will “go out and come in” with the people—sharing their daily realities. • Vision for Ongoing Mission – Moses looks beyond his lifetime, ensuring continuity. – Proverbs 13:22: “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” • Accountability to the Flock – He seeks someone who will “bring them out and bring them in,” guiding movement and rest—total oversight. – Mirrors later New Testament elder qualifications (1 Peter 5:2–3). • Acceptance of God’s Discipline – Moses’ request submits to God’s verdict about his own entry into Canaan. – Numbers 20:12 showed the reason for his exclusion; here he models obedient acceptance. Key Takeaways for Today • True leaders put the wellbeing of God’s people above personal ambitions. • Effective succession planning begins with prayer, not politics. • Pastoral leadership involves presence—going before, walking with, and returning with the flock. • Humility is displayed when a leader defers to God’s choice rather than asserting his own preference. • Even in personal loss, a servant of God can advance the mission by focusing on those who follow. Supporting Scriptures • Deuteronomy 34:9 – Joshua filled with the Spirit, confirming God answered Moses’ prayer. • Psalm 23:1 – The LORD as ultimate Shepherd, the model Moses imitates. • John 10:11 – Jesus, the Good Shepherd, fulfills the ideal Moses desired. |
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