Numbers 25:9

but those who died in the plague numbered 24,000.

Study Bible

but those who died in the plague
This phrase refers to the divine judgment that fell upon the Israelites due to their sin at Peor, where they engaged in idolatry and immorality with Moabite women. The plague was a direct consequence of their disobedience to God's commandments, highlighting the seriousness of idolatry and immorality in the eyes of God. This event serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where blessings were contingent upon obedience, and curses followed disobedience (Deuteronomy 28). The plague can be seen as a form of divine discipline intended to bring the people back to repentance and faithfulness.

numbered 24,000.
The number 24,000 is significant as it underscores the severity of the judgment. This large number indicates the widespread nature of the sin and its impact on the community. In 1 Corinthians 10:8, Paul references this event, noting that 23,000 fell in one day, which may suggest a rounding or a focus on the immediate impact of the plague. The discrepancy in numbers between the Old and New Testament accounts can be understood in light of ancient historiographical practices, where exact numbers were often less critical than the theological or moral lessons conveyed. The number also serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, emphasizing the need for holiness and separation from pagan practices.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God who were journeying through the wilderness towards the Promised Land. They fell into sin by engaging in idolatry and immorality with the Moabites.

2. Moab
A nation neighboring Israel. The Moabites enticed the Israelites into sin, leading to God's judgment.

3. Phinehas
The grandson of Aaron, who took zealous action to stop the plague by executing an Israelite man and a Midianite woman engaged in sin.

4. Plague
A divine judgment sent by God as a consequence of Israel's sin, resulting in the death of 24,000 people.

5. Baal of Peor
The false god of the Moabites, whom the Israelites began to worship, leading to their downfall.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin, especially idolatry and immorality, leads to severe consequences. The Israelites' actions resulted in a devastating plague. We must be vigilant against sin in our lives.

Zeal for God's Holiness
Phinehas' actions demonstrate the importance of zeal for God's holiness. We should be passionate about upholding God's standards in our lives and communities.

The Danger of Compromise
The Israelites compromised their faith by mingling with the Moabites. We must guard against compromising our beliefs and values in a world that often opposes them.

God's Mercy and Justice
While God is just and punishes sin, He is also merciful. Phinehas' intervention stopped the plague, showing that God responds to righteousness and repentance.

Learning from the Past
The events at Peor serve as a warning and lesson for us today. We should learn from the past to avoid repeating the same mistakes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What led the Israelites to fall into sin at Peor, and how can we guard against similar temptations in our lives today?

2. How does Phinehas' response to the sin at Peor challenge us to act when we see wrongdoing in our communities?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we do not compromise our faith in a culture that often opposes biblical values?

4. How does the account of the plague in Numbers 25:9 illustrate the balance between God's justice and mercy?

5. Reflect on a time when you learned from a past mistake. How can the account of Israel at Peor encourage you to apply those lessons in your spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The incident of the golden calf, where the Israelites similarly fell into idolatry, resulting in God's judgment.

1 Corinthians 10:8
Paul references this event to warn the Corinthians against sexual immorality and idolatry, highlighting the consequences of such actions.

Psalm 106:28-31
This passage recounts Israel's sin at Peor and praises Phinehas for his righteous zeal, which turned away God's wrath.