Numbers 25:3

So Israel joined in worshiping Baal of Peor, and the anger of the LORD burned against them.

Study Bible

So Israel joined in worshiping Baal of Peor
This phrase indicates a significant moment of apostasy for the Israelites. Baal of Peor refers to a local manifestation of the Canaanite god Baal, worshiped at Peor, a location in Moab. The Israelites' involvement in this idolatry was not merely a religious error but a breach of their covenant with Yahweh, who had commanded exclusive worship. This act of idolatry is linked to the seduction by Moabite women, as described earlier in the chapter, which led the Israelites into both sexual immorality and idol worship. The worship of Baal often included fertility rites and rituals that were in direct opposition to the laws given to Israel. This event is a stark reminder of the dangers of syncretism and the influence of surrounding pagan cultures. It also foreshadows future struggles Israel would face with idolatry, as seen in the books of Judges and Kings.

and the anger of the LORD burned against them
The phrase highlights God's righteous indignation towards Israel's unfaithfulness. The anger of the LORD is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, often resulting in divine judgment or discipline. In this context, it underscores the seriousness of Israel's sin and the breach of their covenant relationship with God. The burning anger signifies not only God's displeasure but also His holiness and justice. This divine response serves as a warning to the Israelites and future generations about the consequences of turning away from God. It also points to the need for atonement and repentance, themes that are fulfilled in the New Testament through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the wrath of God for humanity's sins. This incident is a precursor to the later teachings of the prophets, who called Israel back to faithfulness and warned of the consequences of idolatry.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The nation chosen by God, who at this time was journeying through the wilderness towards the Promised Land. They were called to be a holy people, set apart for God's purposes.

2. Baal of Peor
A local deity worshiped by the Moabites and Midianites. The worship of Baal often involved immoral practices, which were contrary to the laws given by God to Israel.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who had delivered them from Egypt and given them His laws. His anger is kindled by Israel's idolatry and unfaithfulness.

4. Moab
The region where the Israelites were encamped. The Moabites, along with the Midianites, enticed Israel into idolatry and immorality.

5. The Plague
A divine judgment that came upon Israel as a result of their sin, demonstrating God's holiness and intolerance of idolatry.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but can be anything that takes the place of God in our lives. We must guard our hearts against modern forms of idolatry.

The Consequences of Sin
Sin has serious consequences, both spiritually and physically. The Israelites' sin led to God's anger and a devastating plague. We must take sin seriously and seek repentance.

The Call to Holiness
As God's people, we are called to be holy and set apart. This requires vigilance and a commitment to God's commands, resisting the temptations of the world.

God's Righteous Anger
God's anger is a response to sin and unfaithfulness. Understanding His righteous anger helps us appreciate His holiness and the seriousness of our covenant relationship with Him.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for maintaining a right relationship with Him. Disobedience leads to separation and judgment, while obedience brings blessing and favor.

Bible Study Questions

1. What modern "idols" might we be tempted to worship, and how can we guard against them in our daily lives?

2. How does the incident at Peor illustrate the importance of community accountability in maintaining faithfulness to God?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains pure and focused solely on God, avoiding the influence of worldly practices?

4. How can we apply the lessons from Israel's failure at Peor to our personal walk with God, especially in resisting temptation?

5. What steps can we take to cultivate a deeper understanding of God's holiness and the seriousness of sin in our spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The first and second commandments, which prohibit the worship of other gods and the making of idols, directly relate to Israel's sin in Numbers 25:3.

Deuteronomy 4:3-4
Moses later reminds Israel of the incident at Peor, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to God and the consequences of idolatry.

1 Corinthians 10:8
Paul references this event as a warning to the Corinthian church, illustrating the dangers of idolatry and immorality.