How does Numbers 11:26 illustrate God's sovereignty in choosing leaders? Setting the Scene Numbers 11 records Moses overwhelmed by complaints, so the LORD instructs him to gather seventy elders. As promised, “I will take of the Spirit that is on you and put the Spirit on them” (v. 17). When the elders assemble at the tent, the Spirit rests on them and they prophesy. Then comes the unexpected verse: “Two men, one named Eldad and the other Medad, had remained in the camp. They were listed among the elders, but they had not gone out to the tent. Yet the Spirit rested on them, and they prophesied in the camp.” — Numbers 11:26 The Spirit’s Unexpected Landing • Eldad and Medad are physically absent from the formal gathering, yet the same Spirit finds them. • Their absence does not nullify God’s call; His choice overrides human protocol. • The event highlights that leadership anointing flows from divine prerogative, not mere attendance or ceremony. Sovereignty Displayed in Four Dimensions 1. Selection • God picks the leaders He wants, even if unnoticed by others. • “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit” (John 15:16). 2. Empowerment • Authority comes only because God supplies His Spirit. • “All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills” (1 Corinthians 12:11). 3. Location • Divine appointment is not confined to sacred venues. • “Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? … even there Your hand will guide me” (Psalm 139:7, 10). 4. Timing • God acts precisely when He intends, independent of schedules. • “A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps” (Proverbs 16:9). Practical Takeaways • Leadership is received, not seized; God’s choice carries the day. • The Spirit can reach anyone, anywhere—faithful attendance is good, but His call is sovereign. • Humility fits every servant; surprises like Eldad and Medad remind all leaders that God alone validates ministry. • Expect God to keep choosing and empowering people in ways that confound human expectations. Supporting Scriptures • Numbers 11:17, 24–29 |
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