What is the meaning of Numbers 5:1? Then • The opening adverb links this command to the flow of the narrative. It follows the careful census and ordering of the Levites in Numbers 4, showing that God’s instructions are given in a deliberate sequence (Numbers 4:49). • Scripture often notes precise timing to underline that God’s commands are neither random nor delayed (Genesis 22:20; Joshua 1:1). • “Then” reminds us that obedience to previous revelation prepares the way for the next step (Psalm 119:60; James 1:22). The LORD • The covenant name, “YHWH,” stresses God’s unchanging faithfulness (Exodus 3:14; Malachi 3:6). • He alone defines holiness for His people, as seen throughout the wilderness journey (Leviticus 11:45; 1 Peter 1:16). • The same LORD who redeemed Israel from Egypt continues to direct their daily life, affirming His ongoing, personal involvement (Deuteronomy 4:7; Hebrews 13:8). Said • God speaks with absolute authority; His words carry creative and moral power (Genesis 1:3; Isaiah 55:11). • Revelation is verbal and clear, not vague impressions—“All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). • Because God speaks, His people are expected to listen and respond (Deuteronomy 6:4-5; John 10:27). To Moses • Moses serves as the appointed mediator, receiving and relaying God’s will (Exodus 19:3-7; Numbers 12:7-8). • His leadership underscores the principle of divinely established authority within the covenant community (Hebrews 3:5). • The pattern anticipates the greater Mediator, Jesus Christ, who perfectly reveals the Father (Deuteronomy 18:18; John 1:17-18). summary Numbers 5:1, “Then the LORD said to Moses,” signals another precise, authoritative command from the covenant-keeping God, delivered through His chosen mediator. The verse anchors the subsequent instructions in God’s unbroken sequence of revelation, highlighting His faithfulness, the power of His spoken word, and the necessity of obedient response from His people. |
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