Numbers 22:20

That night God came to Balaam and said, "Since these men have come to summon you, get up and go with them, but you must only do what I tell you."

Study Bible

That night God came to Balaam and said,
This phrase indicates divine intervention and communication. In the biblical narrative, God often communicates through dreams or visions at night, as seen with figures like Jacob (Genesis 28:12) and Joseph (Genesis 37:5). Balaam, though a non-Israelite prophet, receives a direct message from God, highlighting God's sovereignty over all nations and peoples. This encounter underscores the theme of God's control over events and His ability to use even those outside the covenant community for His purposes.

Since these men have come to summon you,
The men referred to are the emissaries of Balak, king of Moab, who sought Balaam's services to curse the Israelites. This reflects the historical context of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and the fear they instilled in surrounding nations. The Moabites, descendants of Lot (Genesis 19:37), were historically related to Israel but often in conflict with them. The summoning of Balaam, a renowned seer, indicates the seriousness of Balak's intent and the perceived threat of Israel.

get up and go with them,
God permits Balaam to accompany the Moabite officials, which may seem contradictory to His earlier command not to go (Numbers 22:12). This reflects a biblical theme where God allows human free will to operate within His sovereign plan. It also sets the stage for the unfolding narrative where Balaam's intentions and God's ultimate purpose will be revealed. The command to "get up" signifies readiness and obedience, a common biblical motif when God calls individuals to action.

but you must only do what I tell you.
This condition emphasizes God's control over the situation and Balaam's role as a mouthpiece for divine will. It foreshadows the events where Balaam, despite his own inclinations, can only pronounce blessings over Israel (Numbers 23-24). This directive highlights the biblical principle that true prophecy is not subject to human manipulation but is a revelation of God's will. It also prefigures the New Testament understanding of Jesus as the ultimate prophet who speaks only what the Father commands (John 12:49-50).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet or diviner known for his ability to bless or curse. He is approached by Balak to curse the Israelites.

2. God (Yahweh)
The one true God who communicates with Balaam, demonstrating His sovereignty over all nations and peoples.

3. Balak
The king of Moab who fears the Israelites and seeks Balaam's help to curse them.

4. Moab
The region ruled by Balak, located east of the Dead Sea, where the Israelites camped during their journey to the Promised Land.

5. The Angel of the Lord
Though not directly mentioned in verse 20, the Angel plays a significant role in the subsequent account, representing God's presence and authority.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God is in control of all situations, even when His people are unaware. He can use anyone, even a pagan prophet, to accomplish His purposes.

Obedience to God's Word
Balaam is instructed to do only what God tells him. This emphasizes the importance of adhering strictly to God's commands in our lives.

The Danger of Compromise
Balaam's willingness to entertain Balak's request shows the peril of compromising one's integrity for personal gain.

God's Protection Over His People
Despite Balak's intentions, God ensures that His people are protected and blessed, reminding us of His faithfulness.

The Role of Divine Guidance
Balaam's account illustrates the necessity of seeking and following divine guidance in decision-making.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Balaam's interaction with God in Numbers 22:20 demonstrate God's control over the situation? Reflect on a time when you saw God's sovereignty in your life.

2. In what ways does Balaam's account warn us about the dangers of greed and compromise? How can we guard against these in our own lives?

3. How does the instruction to "do only what I tell you" apply to our daily walk with God? What are some practical ways to ensure we are following God's commands?

4. Consider the connection between Numbers 22:20 and Genesis 12:3. How does this reinforce the idea of God's protection and blessing over His people?

5. Reflect on a situation where you had to choose between following God's guidance and pursuing personal gain. What did you learn from that experience, and how can it inform your future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to Abraham that those who bless him will be blessed, and those who curse him will be cursed, is relevant here as Balaam is asked to curse Israel.

Deuteronomy 23:4-5
This passage recounts how God turned Balaam's intended curse into a blessing for Israel, highlighting God's protective power over His people.

2 Peter 2:15
Balaam is mentioned in the New Testament as an example of someone who loved the wages of wickedness, providing a moral lesson on the dangers of greed.