Numbers 17:11

So Moses did as the LORD had commanded him.

Study Bible

So Moses did
This phrase highlights the immediate obedience of Moses, a central figure in the Old Testament. The Hebrew root for "did" is עָשָׂה (asah), which means to do, make, or accomplish. Moses' actions are a testament to his faithfulness and dedication to God's commands. In a broader scriptural context, Moses' obedience serves as a model for believers, emphasizing the importance of acting upon God's instructions without hesitation. His life is a continuous narrative of responding to God's call, demonstrating that true leadership in the faith community is marked by submission to divine will.

as the LORD had commanded him
The phrase underscores the divine authority and the specificity of God's instructions. The Hebrew word for "commanded" is צָוָה (tsavah), which conveys the idea of giving orders or directives. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God, as the sovereign Lord, provides guidance and direction. Historically, this obedience is set against the backdrop of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, a period marked by rebellion and divine instruction. Moses' compliance is not just a personal act of faith but a necessary step in maintaining the order and sanctity of the community. It serves as a reminder that God's commands are not arbitrary but are given for the well-being and spiritual growth of His people. Moses' adherence to God's command is a call for believers to trust in God's wisdom and to follow His guidance with a willing heart.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In Numbers 17, Moses acts as an intermediary between God and the Israelites.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. In this chapter, Aaron's rod is used as a sign of God's chosen priesthood.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, who are wandering in the wilderness. They have been grumbling and questioning the leadership of Moses and Aaron.

4. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among His people, where the rods of the leaders of the twelve tribes were placed before the LORD.

5. The Rod of Aaron
A symbol of God's chosen leadership and priesthood, which miraculously budded, blossomed, and produced almonds as a sign to the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Choice
God chooses whom He wills for His purposes, as seen in His selection of Aaron's priesthood. Believers should trust in God's sovereign decisions and His appointed leaders.

Signs of Divine Approval
Just as Aaron's rod budded as a sign of God's approval, believers should seek God's confirmation in their callings and ministries through spiritual fruit and alignment with His Word.

The Danger of Grumbling
The Israelites' grumbling led to God's intervention. Believers are reminded to guard against a spirit of discontent and to trust in God's provision and leadership.

The Role of Intercession
Moses' role as an intercessor highlights the importance of prayer and mediation. Believers are called to intercede for others, following the example of Christ, our ultimate intercessor.

The Importance of Obedience
Moses did as the LORD commanded, demonstrating the importance of obedience to God's instructions. Believers are encouraged to follow God's commands faithfully.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the budding of Aaron's rod serve as a confirmation of God's chosen leadership, and how can we seek similar confirmations in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the account of Aaron's rod relate to the New Testament concept of spiritual fruitfulness, as seen in John 15?

3. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' grumbling, and how can we apply these lessons to our own attitudes and behaviors?

4. How does Moses' role as an intercessor in Numbers 17 inspire us to pray for others, and what New Testament examples of intercession can we follow?

5. What does the obedience of Moses in this passage teach us about the importance of following God's commands, and how can we apply this to our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 7
Aaron's rod is used by God to perform miracles before Pharaoh, establishing his authority and God's power.

Hebrews 9
The rod of Aaron is mentioned as part of the contents of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's chosen priesthood and His miraculous provision.

John 15
Jesus speaks of Himself as the true vine, and believers as branches, emphasizing the importance of abiding in Him for spiritual fruitfulness, similar to the miraculous budding of Aaron's rod.