What is the meaning of Numbers 15:1? Then • The tiny word “Then” signals a direct continuation from the crisis in Numbers 14, where Israel’s rebellion led to defeat at Hormah. • Scripture’s flow reminds us that God does not abandon His people even after judgment; He moves immediately to restore order and worship (cf. Judges 2:18; Psalm 103:9). • “Then” marks a fresh start—new instructions that will shape Israel’s daily life once they finally enter the land (Numbers 15:2). the LORD • The speaker is “the LORD”—Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God who revealed Himself to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 3:15). • His personal name assures Israel that the same faithful God who redeemed them from Egypt now addresses their failure (Exodus 6:7; Malachi 3:6). • Because He is holy and unchanging, His word carries absolute authority for belief and practice (Leviticus 19:37; Isaiah 40:8). said • God speaks; He does not leave His people guessing. Divine revelation is verbal, clear, and binding (Genesis 1:3; Hebrews 1:1-2). • Every “said” that proceeds from the LORD becomes inspired Scripture, “God-breathed” and profitable (2 Timothy 3:16). • The pattern—God speaks, Moses records—underscores the literal reliability of the Pentateuch. to Moses • Moses stands as mediator and prophet (Exodus 3:10; Deuteronomy 34:10-12). • By addressing Moses, God affirms the chain of command for Israel’s life: revelation → prophet → people (Numbers 12:6-8). • This underscores our need for a mediator; ultimately fulfilled in Christ, “the apostle and high priest of our confession” (Hebrews 3:1-6). summary Numbers 15:1, though only eight English words, powerfully sets the stage for the instructions that follow. After judgment, the covenant LORD personally speaks, providing fresh guidance through His chosen servant. The verse highlights God’s faithfulness, the authority of His verbal revelation, and the necessity of a mediator—truths that remain essential for believers today. |
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