What is the meaning of Numbers 22:35? But • The conjunction signals a turning point in the narrative—God had just revealed Balaam’s danger (Numbers 22:32–34). • It reminds us that God’s mercy interrupts judgment; despite Balaam’s reckless path, the Lord steps in (Psalm 103:10). • Similar divine “but” moments appear when God reverses courses of sin (Genesis 8:1; Ephesians 2:4). the angel of the LORD said to Balaam • The Angel, who speaks with God’s authority (Genesis 16:10; Exodus 3:2, 6), meets Balaam after blocking his way (Numbers 22:22–27). • His presence underscores that Balaam isn’t dealing with mere circumstances but with the living God (Psalm 34:7). • Like Elijah’s angelic encounter (1 Kings 19:5–7), this shows God’s direct involvement in guiding—even restraining—His servants. Go with the men • Permission is reiterated from God’s earlier word in Numbers 22:20, revealing divine sovereignty over pagan plans (Proverbs 16:9). • God sometimes allows desires to expose hearts (Psalm 106:15), yet He still governs the outcome for His purposes (Genesis 50:20). • Balaam’s journey anticipates God turning a curse into blessing for Israel (Nehemiah 13:2). but you are to speak only what I tell you • A prophet’s lips must stay bound to God’s message (Deuteronomy 18:18–19; Jeremiah 1:7). • Balaam, tempted by Balak’s rewards (2 Peter 2:15; Jude 11), receives a solemn charge: obedience over profit. • “Whatever the LORD says, that I must speak,” echoes later in 1 Kings 22:14 and points to Scripture’s insistence that true prophecy flows from God alone (2 Peter 1:21). So Balaam went with the princes of Balak • Balaam complies outwardly, yet his motives prove mixed, foreshadowing his later counsel to entice Israel into sin (Numbers 31:16; Revelation 2:14). • God’s word stands: Balak’s princes cannot buy a curse against God’s blessed people (Numbers 23:8). • The scene illustrates how God can use even compromised individuals to proclaim His truth (Philippians 1:15–18). summary Numbers 22:35 reveals God’s sovereign control over human plans. Though Balaam may proceed, he may not deviate from God’s word. The verse underscores divine mercy, the binding authority of God’s message, and the assurance that no scheme can thwart God’s blessing on His people. |
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