Numbers 32:6

But Moses asked the Gadites and Reubenites, "Shall your brothers go to war while you sit here?

Study Bible

But Moses asked the Gadites and Reubenites
Moses, the leader of the Israelites, addresses the tribes of Gad and Reuben. These tribes had large herds and saw the land of Jazer and Gilead as suitable for their livestock. This request to settle east of the Jordan River rather than crossing into the Promised Land reflects a potential division among the tribes. The Gadites and Reubenites' request is significant as it challenges the unity and collective mission of the Israelites. Historically, this moment underscores the importance of communal responsibility and the potential for internal conflict within the Israelite community.

“Shall your brothers go to war
The term "brothers" emphasizes the familial bond among the tribes of Israel, highlighting the expectation of mutual support and shared responsibility. The Israelites were preparing to enter Canaan, a land promised to them by God, which required military conquest. This phrase underscores the expectation that all tribes would participate in the battles necessary to claim the land. The concept of collective effort in warfare is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, reflecting the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where obedience and unity are crucial for success.

while you sit here?
Moses questions the fairness and justice of the Gadites and Reubenites' desire to remain behind while their fellow Israelites engage in battle. This phrase challenges the tribes' commitment to the collective mission and raises issues of duty and solidarity. The idea of "sitting" implies inactivity and a lack of contribution to the common cause. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of active participation in God's plans and the dangers of complacency. It also foreshadows the need for accountability and the potential consequences of failing to support the community, as seen in other biblical narratives where unity and cooperation are essential for achieving God's purposes.

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 this passage, Moses is addressing the tribes of Gad and Reuben.

2. Gadites and Reubenites
These are the members of the tribes of Gad and Reuben. They requested to settle in the land of Jazer and Gilead, which they found suitable for their livestock, instead of crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land with the rest of the Israelites.

3. The Promised Land
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Israelites are on the verge of entering this land after their exodus from Egypt and years of wandering in the wilderness.

4. The Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary that the Israelites must cross to enter the Promised Land.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The period of 40 years during which the Israelites wandered in the desert after their exodus from Egypt, due to their disobedience and lack of faith.

Teaching Points

Unity and Collective Responsibility
The question posed by Moses underscores the importance of unity and shared responsibility among God's people. Just as the tribes of Gad and Reuben were reminded of their duty to support their brethren, Christians today are called to support one another in spiritual battles and communal endeavors.

Avoiding Complacency
The request of the Gadites and Reubenites to settle before reaching the Promised Land serves as a warning against complacency. Believers must remain vigilant and committed to God's mission, not settling for comfort at the expense of God's greater plan.

Faithfulness in God's Promises
The tribes' desire to settle outside the Promised Land challenges us to trust fully in God's promises and timing. We must resist the temptation to rely on our understanding and instead follow God's direction.

The Role of Leadership
Moses' response highlights the role of godly leadership in guiding and correcting the community. Leaders are tasked with ensuring that the community remains focused on God's purposes and united in their efforts.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' question to the Gadites and Reubenites challenge us to consider our role in supporting our Christian community today?

2. In what ways can we guard against spiritual complacency in our personal lives and within the church?

3. How does the concept of unity in Numbers 32:6 relate to Paul's teaching on the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12?

4. What lessons can we learn from the tribes of Gad and Reuben about trusting in God's promises and timing?

5. How can leaders in the church today emulate Moses' example in guiding and correcting their communities toward God's purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1
This chapter describes the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and the preparation for crossing the Jordan River. It highlights the importance of unity and collective effort in claiming God's promises.

Deuteronomy 3
This passage recounts the allocation of land to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, emphasizing the need for these tribes to assist their fellow Israelites in conquering the Promised Land.

1 Corinthians 12
Paul speaks about the body of Christ and the importance of each member working together for the common good, paralleling the need for unity among the tribes of Israel.