Numbers 31:1-12 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,… I. THAT IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE DIVINE GOVERNMENT THE PUNISHMENT OF SIN IS CERTAIN. 1. The sin which the Midianites had committed. 2. The Author of the punishment of the Midianites. 3. The executioners of the punishment. 4. The severity of the punishment. (1) It fell upon an immense number. (2) It tell upon persons of every rank. (3) It involved the destruction of their towns and villages, and the loss of their property. II. THAT GOD CAN WORK BY MANY, OR BY FEW, IN THE EXECUTION OF HIS PURPOSES. The accomplishments of the purpose of God by this small force was fitted to answer three ends. 1. To teach them that this expedition was, in a special manner, the Lord's. 2. To teach them that He can effect His purposes "by many or by few" (1 Samuel 14:6; Judges 7:1.). 3. To check any temptation or tendency to self-glorification on the part of the soldiers. III. THAT GOD HONOURS THE HOLY ZEAL OF HIS SERVANTS BY EMPLOYING THEM AS LEADERS IN THE EXECUTION OF HIS PURPOSES. IV. THAT GOD ENRICHES HIS PEOPLE WITH THE SPOILS OF THEIR ENEMIES. (W. Jones.) Parallel Verses KJV: And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, |
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