Numbers 27:20

Confer on him some of your authority, so that the whole congregation of Israel will obey him.

Study Bible

Confer on him some of your authority
This phrase refers to the transfer of leadership from Moses to Joshua. Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness, is instructed by God to pass on some of his authority to Joshua. This act signifies a divinely ordained succession plan, ensuring continuity in leadership. The Hebrew word for "authority" here can also mean "honor" or "majesty," indicating that Joshua is to be respected and followed as Moses was. This transfer is not just a political move but a spiritual one, as it involves God's blessing and guidance. The laying on of hands, which Moses performs later, is a symbolic act of this transfer, seen in other biblical contexts such as the ordination of priests (Leviticus 8:10) and the commissioning of leaders (Acts 6:6).

so that the whole congregation of Israel
The "whole congregation of Israel" refers to the entire community of Israelites, including all twelve tribes. This phrase emphasizes the unity and collective identity of the people as God's chosen nation. The congregation is not just a gathering of individuals but a covenant community bound by their relationship with God and their shared history. The leadership transition is crucial for maintaining this unity, as the people are on the brink of entering the Promised Land. The congregation's obedience to Joshua is essential for their success and survival, as they will face numerous challenges and battles in Canaan.

will obey him
Obedience to Joshua is a central theme in this passage. Joshua's leadership is legitimized by the authority conferred upon him by Moses, who is God's appointed servant. This obedience is not merely a matter of following orders but is deeply rooted in the Israelites' covenant relationship with God. The success of the Israelites in conquering the Promised Land is contingent upon their obedience to God's commands, as mediated through Joshua. This theme of obedience is echoed throughout the book of Joshua, where the people's adherence to God's instructions leads to victory, while disobedience results in setbacks (Joshua 7:1-5). Joshua is a type of Christ, as he leads the people into the Promised Land, just as Jesus leads believers into the spiritual rest and inheritance promised by God (Hebrews 4:8-10).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses is instructed by God to confer authority on Joshua.

2. Joshua
A faithful servant and assistant to Moses, chosen by God to succeed Moses as the leader of Israel. He is to receive some of Moses' authority to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being led from Egypt to the Promised Land. They are the congregation that will be led by Joshua after Moses.

4. The Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God communicated with Moses. It is the setting for the commissioning of Joshua.

5. Eleazar the Priest
The high priest who plays a role in the commissioning of Joshua, representing the spiritual leadership of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership Transition
Godly leadership requires careful planning and divine guidance. Moses' obedience in transferring authority to Joshua ensures continuity and stability for the Israelites.

The Role of Authority in God's Plan
Authority is given by God for the purpose of order and obedience among His people. It is not to be taken lightly but used to guide others in righteousness.

The Significance of Obedience
The Israelites' obedience to Joshua is crucial for their success. Similarly, believers are called to obey those whom God has placed in authority over them.

The Power of Laying on of Hands
This act symbolizes the transfer of authority and blessing. It is a practice that continues in the church today, signifying the empowerment and commissioning of leaders.

Faithfulness in Service
Joshua's faithfulness as Moses' assistant prepared him for leadership. Faithful service in small things often leads to greater responsibilities in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the transfer of authority from Moses to Joshua demonstrate God's plan for leadership succession?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience to authority in our own lives, both in the church and in other areas?

3. How does the practice of laying on of hands in the Old Testament connect to its use in the New Testament church?

4. What qualities did Joshua exhibit that made him a suitable successor to Moses, and how can we cultivate similar qualities in our own lives?

5. How can we ensure that our transitions in leadership, whether in ministry or other areas, align with biblical principles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 34:9
This verse describes Joshua being filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses laid his hands on him, showing the fulfillment of the authority transfer.

Acts 6:6
The laying on of hands in the early church for the appointment of leaders, reflecting the practice of conferring authority seen in Numbers 27:20.

1 Timothy 4:14
Paul reminds Timothy of the gift given to him through prophecy and the laying on of hands, illustrating the continuity of this practice in the New Testament.