Numbers 31:10

Then they burned all the cities where the Midianites had lived, as well as all their encampments,

Study Bible

Then they burned all the cities
The act of burning cities was a common practice in ancient warfare, symbolizing total destruction and the removal of any future threat. This action was a fulfillment of God's command to Moses to execute judgment on the Midianites for their role in leading Israel into idolatry and immorality (Numbers 25). The destruction of cities signifies the complete eradication of the Midianite influence, ensuring that the Israelites would not be tempted by their practices again. This also reflects the biblical principle of purging evil from among God's people (Deuteronomy 13:12-18).

where the Midianites had lived
The Midianites were a nomadic people descended from Abraham through his wife Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). They lived in the region east of the Jordan River and the Dead Sea, in what is now modern-day Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Historically, the Midianites were known for their trade and their involvement in the caravan routes. Their interaction with Israel was complex, involving both conflict and cooperation at different times. The destruction of their cities marks a significant moment in Israel's journey to the Promised Land, as it removed a major source of temptation and conflict.

as well as all their encampments
The term "encampments" refers to the temporary settlements or tents used by the Midianites, reflecting their nomadic lifestyle. Destroying these encampments ensured that the Midianites could not regroup or return to their former way of life. This action can be seen as a type of spiritual warfare, where the removal of physical strongholds represents the removal of spiritual strongholds. In a broader biblical context, this can be connected to the New Testament teaching of demolishing arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). The complete destruction of both cities and encampments underscores the thoroughness of God's judgment and the importance of obedience to His commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Midianites
A nomadic tribe descended from Midian, a son of Abraham by Keturah. They were often in conflict with Israel and were involved in leading Israel into idolatry and immorality.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In this context, they are executing God's judgment on the Midianites.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who was commanded by God to take vengeance on the Midianites for their role in leading Israel into sin.

4. Cities and Encampments
The places where the Midianites lived, which were destroyed by fire as part of God's judgment.

5. Vengeance of the LORD
The divine retribution commanded by God against the Midianites for their seduction of Israel into sin.

Teaching Points

God's Holiness and Justice
God's command to destroy the Midianite cities underscores His holiness and intolerance of sin. It serves as a reminder that sin has serious consequences and that God's justice will prevail.

The Danger of Idolatry and Immorality
The Midianites led Israel into idolatry and immorality, which resulted in severe judgment. Believers must guard against influences that lead away from God.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in executing God's judgment on the Midianites demonstrates the importance of following God's commands, even when they are difficult.

The Consequences of Sin
The destruction of the Midianite cities serves as a warning of the destructive nature of sin and the importance of repentance and turning back to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the destruction of the Midianite cities teach us about God's view of sin and idolatry?

2. How can we apply the lesson of obedience from this passage to our own lives today?

3. In what ways do we see the consequences of sin in our world, and how can we respond as Christians?

4. How does understanding the historical context of the Midianites enhance our comprehension of this passage?

5. What other biblical examples can you find where God commands His people to take action against sin, and what can we learn from them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 25:1-4
Provides background on the Midianites as descendants of Abraham, establishing their historical and familial connection to Israel.

Numbers 25:1-3
Describes the sin of Israel with the Moabite and Midianite women, which led to God's command for vengeance.

Deuteronomy 9:5
Explains that God's judgment on nations is due to their wickedness, not Israel's righteousness, providing context for the destruction of the Midianite cities.

Psalm 106:34-39
Reflects on Israel's failure to destroy the nations as commanded, leading to their own corruption, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's commands.