who will go out and come in before them, and who will lead them out and bring them in, so that the congregation of the LORD will not be like sheep without a shepherd." who will go out and come in before themThis phrase refers to the leadership role that involves guiding and directing the people in their daily activities and military endeavors. In ancient Israel, a leader was expected to be actively involved in the life of the community, both in times of peace and war. The expression "go out and come in" is a Hebrew idiom for leading in battle and managing the affairs of the people (1 Samuel 18:13, 2 Samuel 5:2). It emphasizes the need for a leader who is present and engaged with the people, ensuring their safety and well-being. and who will lead them out and bring them in so that the congregation of the LORD will not be like sheep without a shepherd. Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe leader of the Israelites who is seeking God's guidance for a successor to lead the people into the Promised Land. 2. Joshua The individual chosen by God to succeed Moses as the leader of Israel. 3. The Congregation of the LORD Refers to the Israelites, God's chosen people, who are in need of a leader to guide them. 4. The Promised Land The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 5. Sheep without a Shepherd A metaphor used to describe the Israelites' need for guidance and leadership. Teaching Points The Importance of Godly LeadershipGodly leadership is essential for guiding and protecting the people of God. Just as Moses sought a successor, we must seek leaders who are led by God. The Role of a Shepherd A shepherd's role is to lead, protect, and care for the flock. In our lives, we should seek to emulate these qualities in our leadership roles, whether in the church, family, or community. Dependence on God for Guidance Just as Moses depended on God to appoint a leader, we must rely on God for direction in our lives and decisions. The Need for Spiritual Oversight The metaphor of sheep without a shepherd highlights the necessity of spiritual oversight. We should ensure that we are under sound spiritual leadership and also provide it to others if we are in such a position. Continuity in Leadership The transition from Moses to Joshua underscores the importance of continuity in leadership. We should prepare and mentor future leaders to ensure the ongoing health and direction of our communities. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the role of a shepherd in biblical times compare to the role of a leader in the church today?2. In what ways can we ensure that we are under godly leadership in our personal and spiritual lives? 3. How can we apply the principle of seeking God's guidance in leadership transitions within our own communities or organizations? 4. What qualities did Joshua possess that made him a suitable successor to Moses, and how can we cultivate similar qualities in our lives? 5. How does the imagery of "sheep without a shepherd" challenge us to provide or seek spiritual oversight in our faith communities? Connections to Other Scriptures Deuteronomy 31:7-8This passage describes Moses commissioning Joshua as his successor, emphasizing the continuity of leadership. John 10:11-14 Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, drawing a parallel to the need for spiritual leadership and care. 1 Peter 5:2-4 Peter exhorts church leaders to shepherd the flock willingly and eagerly, reflecting the shepherd imagery used in Numbers 27:17. Psalm 23 David's psalm portrays the Lord as a shepherd, providing guidance and care, similar to the leadership role described in Numbers 27:17.
People Aaron, Eleazar, Hepher, Hoglah, Israelites, Joseph, Joshua, Korah, Machir, Mahlah, Manasseh, Milcah, Moses, Noah, Nun, Tirzah, ZelophehadPlaces Abarim, Jericho, Kadesh-barnea, Meribah, ZinTopics Assembly, Bring, Bringeth, Company, Congregation, Guide, Keeper, Lead, Lord's, Sheep, Shepherd, TakethDictionary of Bible Themes Numbers 27:15-188130 guidance, from godly people Library The First Blast of the TrumpetThe English Scholar's Library etc. No. 2. The First Blast of the Trumpet &c. 1558. The English Scholar's Library of Old and Modern Works. No. 2. The First Blast of the Trumpet &c. 1558. Edited by EDWARD ARBER, F.S.A., etc., LECTURER IN ENGLISH LITERATURE, ETC., UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, LONDON. SOUTHGATE, LONDON, N. 15 August 1878. No. 2. (All rights reserved.) CONTENTS. Bibliography vii-viii Introduction … John Knox—The First Blast of the Trumpet Epistle xxviii. To Augustine, Bishop of the Angli . Paul's Departure and Crown; The Fifth Commandment Numbers Links Numbers 27:17 NIVNumbers 27:17 NLT Numbers 27:17 ESV Numbers 27:17 NASB Numbers 27:17 KJV Numbers 27:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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