Numbers 22:17

for I will honor you richly and do whatever you say. So please come and put a curse on this people for me!'"

Study Bible

for I will honor you richly
This phrase reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of offering substantial rewards for services rendered, especially those involving spiritual or supernatural intervention. In the context of Numbers 22, Balak, the king of Moab, is attempting to persuade Balaam, a prophet, to curse the Israelites. The promise of riches indicates the high value placed on Balaam's perceived ability to influence divine will. This mirrors other biblical instances where wealth is used as a means of persuasion, such as in Genesis 24:53, where Abraham's servant offers gifts to Rebekah's family. Theologically, this highlights the tension between material wealth and spiritual integrity, a theme echoed in the New Testament, particularly in Matthew 6:24, where Jesus teaches about serving God versus money.

and do whatever you say.
Balak's willingness to comply with Balaam's demands underscores the desperation and fear he feels towards the advancing Israelites. This phrase suggests a carte blanche offer, indicating Balak's belief in Balaam's power to alter the course of events through cursing. Historically, this reflects the ancient belief in the power of spoken words and blessings or curses, a concept seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in Genesis 27, where Isaac's blessing of Jacob is irrevocable. This also foreshadows the New Testament understanding of the power of words, as seen in James 3:5-10, which discusses the tongue's potential for both blessing and cursing.

So please come
Balak's plea for Balaam to come physically to Moab highlights the importance of presence in ancient rituals and ceremonies. The act of coming signifies commitment and the seriousness of the request. Geographically, this involves a journey from Pethor, near the Euphrates River, to Moab, indicating the lengths Balak is willing to go to secure Balaam's services. This journey can be seen as a parallel to the spiritual journey of obedience and faith, as seen in the calling of Abraham in Genesis 12:1-4.

and put a curse on this people for me!’”
The request to curse the Israelites is rooted in the belief that spoken curses could invoke divine displeasure and bring about misfortune. This reflects the cultural and religious practices of the time, where words were believed to have tangible effects. Theologically, this request is significant because it contrasts with God's covenantal promises to Israel, as seen in Genesis 12:3, where God promises to bless those who bless Abraham's descendants and curse those who curse them. This sets the stage for the unfolding narrative where God intervenes to prevent Balaam from cursing Israel, demonstrating His sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises. This also serves as a type of Christ, who, in the New Testament, is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the one who blesses rather than curses, as seen in Galatians 3:13-14.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balak
The king of Moab who is fearful of the Israelites and seeks to hire Balaam to curse them.

2. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet or diviner known for his ability to bless or curse, whom Balak seeks to employ.

3. Moab
A region east of the Dead Sea, whose king, Balak, is threatened by the presence of the Israelites.

4. Israelites
The people of God, who are journeying to the Promised Land and are seen as a threat by Balak.

5. The Offer of Riches
Balak's attempt to entice Balaam with wealth and honor to curse the Israelites.

Teaching Points

The Temptation of Wealth and Honor
Balak's offer to Balaam is a reminder of how worldly wealth and honor can tempt us to act against God's will. We must guard our hearts against such temptations and prioritize obedience to God over material gain.

God's Sovereignty Over Curses and Blessings
Despite human attempts to manipulate outcomes through curses or blessings, God remains sovereign. He can turn intended curses into blessings for His people, as seen in the account of Balaam.

The Danger of Compromise
Balaam's account warns us about the danger of compromising our integrity for personal gain. We must remain steadfast in our commitment to God's truth, even when faced with enticing offers.

The Power of God's Protection
The Israelites were protected by God despite Balak's attempts to harm them. This teaches us to trust in God's protection and faithfulness, knowing that He watches over His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Balak's offer to Balaam reveal about the values and priorities of the world, and how can we guard against similar temptations in our own lives?

2. How does the account of Balaam illustrate the principle that God can turn curses into blessings? Can you think of a time in your life when God turned a negative situation into a positive outcome?

3. In what ways does Balaam's willingness to entertain Balak's offer serve as a warning against compromising our faith? How can we apply this lesson in our daily decisions?

4. How does the protection of the Israelites in this account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty and care for His people today?

5. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to prioritize material gain over spiritual integrity. How did you respond, and what biblical principles can help you make godly choices in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 23:4-5
This passage recounts how Balaam was hired to curse Israel but God turned the curse into a blessing.

2 Peter 2:15
Peter warns against following the way of Balaam, who loved the wages of wickedness.

Revelation 2:14
Jesus rebukes the church in Pergamum for holding to the teaching of Balaam, who enticed Israel to sin.

Proverbs 10:22
Highlights that true blessing comes from the Lord, not from human manipulation or curses.