The Book of Numbers

Author: Moses
Date: 1420 or 1220 B.C.
Content: This book deals with the journey of Israel from Mt. Sinai to the edge of Canaan and the Israelites’ preparation to enter the Promised Land. Because of sin and unbelief, however, they were not allowed by God to claim their inheritance but were condemned to wander in the wilderness for 40 years. After the 40 years, they slowly made their way back to Canaan – this time ready to obey God’s commands. After winning some important battles to the east of the Jordan River, the Israelites prepared for the entrance into the land itself.
Theme: The book shows the continual faithfulness of God and the unbelievable sin of humankind. Israel rejected God but God remained true to his word, in leading the people through the wilderness and providing for their needs. In the New Testament, the Christian life is likened to a wandering in the wilderness with the promise of a heavenly Canaan before us.

I trust the above information is helpful as you celebrate "finally" being out of Leviticus and into Numbers. We've begun with some details on the who, what and where of behind the scenes of worship (This may be a good time to appreciate those who do all the behind the scene stuff that cause our worship experiences to be so meaningful). But hang with your reading - one of my favorite Biblical stories is just around the page - the story of the spies into the promised land.

I'll leave you with the Nazarite Blessing found in Numbers 6 -"The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up His face to you and grant you peace." (6:24-26) CEB - Terry Walton, senior pastor at Gainesville First UMC