Numbers 32:17

But we will arm ourselves and be ready to go ahead of the Israelites until we have brought them into their place. Meanwhile, our little ones will remain in the fortified cities for protection from the inhabitants of the land.

Study Bible

But we will arm ourselves
This phrase indicates a commitment to military readiness and responsibility. The tribes of Reuben and Gad, who settled east of the Jordan River, pledged to support their fellow Israelites in conquering the Promised Land. This reflects the importance of unity and shared responsibility among the tribes. The act of arming themselves also signifies preparation and willingness to engage in battle, a common theme in the Old Testament where God often calls His people to be prepared for spiritual and physical battles.

and be ready to go ahead of the Israelites
Here, the tribes of Reuben and Gad promise to lead the charge, demonstrating leadership and courage. This act of going ahead can be seen as a type of Christ, who goes before His people as a leader and protector. It also reflects the biblical principle of servant leadership, where those in positions of strength or advantage take on the responsibility of leading and protecting others.

until we have brought them into their place
This phrase underscores the commitment to the collective goal of settling the Israelites in the Promised Land. It highlights the idea of perseverance and dedication to God's promises. The "place" refers to the land God promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's covenant. This also connects to the New Testament concept of believers striving to enter the "rest" promised by God, as seen in Hebrews 4.

Meanwhile, our little ones will remain in the fortified cities
The mention of "little ones" staying in fortified cities shows a concern for the safety and well-being of families. Fortified cities were common in ancient times for protection against enemy attacks, indicating a strategic approach to safeguarding the vulnerable. This reflects the biblical theme of God as a fortress and protector, as seen in Psalms, where God is often described as a refuge and strength.

for protection from the inhabitants of the land
This phrase acknowledges the presence of existing inhabitants in the land, who could pose a threat to the Israelites. It highlights the reality of spiritual and physical opposition faced by God's people. The need for protection is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God often provides guidance and defense against adversaries. This also foreshadows the spiritual battles believers face, as described in Ephesians 6, where the armor of God is necessary for protection against spiritual forces.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Reubenites and Gadites
These are the tribes of Israel who requested to settle on the east side of the Jordan River, as the land was suitable for their livestock.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who negotiated with the Reubenites and Gadites regarding their request to settle outside the Promised Land.

3. The Israelites
The collective people of God, journeying to the Promised Land, whom the Reubenites and Gadites promised to support in battle.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. Fortified Cities
These are the cities where the women and children of the Reubenites and Gadites would stay for protection while the men went to battle.

Teaching Points

Commitment to Community
The Reubenites and Gadites demonstrate a commitment to the larger community of Israel, prioritizing collective success over individual comfort.

Faithfulness to Promises
Their willingness to fight for the Promised Land, despite settling elsewhere, underscores the importance of keeping one's word.

Protection of Family
The decision to leave their families in fortified cities highlights the biblical principle of safeguarding one's household.

Spiritual Readiness
Just as the Reubenites and Gadites armed themselves for battle, Christians are called to be spiritually prepared for the challenges they face.

Balancing Responsibilities
The tribes balanced their duty to their families with their commitment to the community, a model for managing personal and communal obligations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the actions of the Reubenites and Gadites reflect the importance of community in the Christian faith?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of keeping promises in our daily lives, especially in our commitments to others?

3. How does the concept of "fortified cities" relate to the ways we protect our families today, both physically and spiritually?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the physical arming of the Reubenites and Gadites and the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6?

5. How can we balance our personal responsibilities with our obligations to our church and community, as demonstrated by the Reubenites and Gadites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1
This chapter describes the fulfillment of the promise made by the Reubenites and Gadites as they assist in the conquest of Canaan.

Deuteronomy 3
Provides additional context on the land given to the Reubenites and Gadites and Moses' instructions to them.

Ephesians 6
Discusses the spiritual armor of God, drawing a parallel to the physical arming of the Reubenites and Gadites for battle.