Numbers 22:35

But the angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but you are to speak only what I tell you." So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.

Study Bible

But the angel of the LORD said to Balaam
The "angel of the LORD" is often seen as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself, which is significant in the Old Testament. This encounter emphasizes God's direct intervention in human affairs. Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, is being addressed by God, highlighting God's sovereignty over all nations and peoples. This moment is pivotal as it shows God's control over the situation, despite Balaam's initial intentions to curse Israel.

“Go with the men
God permits Balaam to accompany Balak's messengers, indicating His allowance of human free will within divine sovereignty. This permission is a test of Balaam's obedience to God's command. The men refer to the Moabite officials sent by Balak, king of Moab, who feared the Israelites due to their numbers and victories. This reflects the historical tension between Israel and surrounding nations.

but you are to speak only what I tell you.”
This command underscores the importance of prophetic integrity and obedience to God's word. Balaam is reminded that his prophetic gift is subject to God's authority. This mirrors the biblical theme that true prophecy comes from God alone, as seen in Deuteronomy 18:18-22, where God promises to raise a prophet who will speak His words.

So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.
Balaam's compliance indicates his acknowledgment of God's authority, yet his later actions reveal a struggle between obedience and personal gain. The "princes of Balak" were high-ranking officials, showing the seriousness of Balak's request. This journey sets the stage for the subsequent oracles, where Balaam blesses Israel instead of cursing them, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:3 that those who bless Israel will be blessed.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet or diviner who is summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. Balaam is known for his encounter with the Angel of the LORD and his talking donkey.

2. Angel of the LORD
A divine messenger who appears to Balaam on his journey to Moab. The Angel of the LORD initially opposes Balaam's path but later instructs him on what to do.

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

4. Moab
A region east of the Jordan River, where Balak rules and where Balaam is summoned to curse the Israelites.

5. Israelites
The people of God, who are journeying to the Promised Land and are seen as a threat by Balak due to their large numbers and recent victories.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Word
Balaam's account emphasizes the importance of obeying God's instructions, even when they conflict with personal desires or external pressures.

God's Sovereignty
The account demonstrates God's control over events and His ability to use even reluctant or misguided individuals to fulfill His purposes.

Spiritual Discernment
Balaam's encounter with the Angel of the LORD highlights the need for spiritual discernment and the dangers of pursuing personal gain over God's will.

The Power of Blessing and Cursing
The account illustrates the spiritual reality and power behind blessings and curses, reminding believers of the importance of aligning their words with God's will.

The Consequences of Greed
Balaam's willingness to entertain Balak's request for financial gain serves as a warning against the dangers of greed and compromising one's integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Balaam's interaction with the Angel of the LORD in Numbers 22:35 illustrate the importance of aligning our actions with God's will?

2. In what ways does the account of Balaam and Balak reflect the promise made to Abraham in Genesis 12:3, and how can this promise encourage us today?

3. How can Balaam's account serve as a warning against the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of spiritual integrity, as mentioned in 2 Peter 2:15?

4. What lessons can we learn from Balaam's experience about the power of words, particularly in the context of blessings and curses?

5. How does the account of Balaam in Numbers 22:35 challenge us to develop spiritual discernment in our own lives, and what practical steps can we take to grow in this area?

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. This connects to Balaam's situation, as he is asked to curse the Israelites, descendants of Abraham.

2 Peter 2:15
Peter references Balaam as an example of someone who loved the wages of wickedness, highlighting the moral and spiritual dangers of Balaam's actions.

Revelation 2:14
Balaam is mentioned in the context of leading others into sin, showing the long-term impact of his actions and teachings.