Numbers 31:23

everything that can withstand the fire--must be put through the fire, and it will be clean. But it must still be purified with the water of purification. And everything that cannot withstand the fire must pass through the water.

Study Bible

everything that can withstand the fire—must be put through the fire
This phrase refers to the purification process for items taken as spoils of war. In the context of Numbers 31, the Israelites had just defeated the Midianites, and God instructed them on how to purify the plunder. The use of fire for purification is symbolic of God's holiness and judgment, as fire often represents purification and the presence of God (e.g., Exodus 3:2, Malachi 3:2-3). The fire tests the durability and purity of materials, separating what is valuable from what is not, much like God's refining process for believers (1 Peter 1:7).

and it will be clean
The result of passing through the fire is cleanliness, signifying that the object is now fit for use by the Israelites. This reflects the broader biblical theme of purification and sanctification, where God calls His people to be holy and set apart (Leviticus 11:44-45). The concept of cleanliness is not just physical but also spiritual, pointing to the need for inner purity (Psalm 51:10).

But it must still be purified with the water of purification
Even after passing through the fire, the items require further purification with water. This dual process underscores the thoroughness required for true purification. The water of purification likely refers to the water mixed with the ashes of a red heifer, as described in Numbers 19, which was used for ceremonial cleansing. Water is a common biblical symbol for cleansing and renewal (Ezekiel 36:25, John 3:5), and it prefigures the cleansing work of Christ, who offers living water (John 4:10).

And everything that cannot withstand the fire must pass through the water
Items unable to endure fire, such as fabrics or wooden objects, are purified solely with water. This provision shows God's understanding and accommodation of different materials, reflecting His wisdom and care. The use of water alone for purification highlights the adaptability of God's laws to various circumstances. This also points to the inclusive nature of God's grace, which purifies all who come to Him, regardless of their condition (Isaiah 1:18, Titus 3:5).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received God's instructions regarding the purification of spoils taken from the Midianites.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to purify the spoils of war.

3. Midianites
The people defeated by the Israelites, whose possessions were subject to purification.

4. Purification Process
The ritual cleansing of items taken from the Midianites, involving fire and water.

5. Water of Purification
A special water used for cleansing, symbolizing spiritual purification.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Purification
Just as the Israelites were required to purify the spoils of war, believers are called to purify their lives from sin and worldly influences.

Fire as a Symbol of Testing and Purification
The use of fire in purification symbolizes the trials and tests that refine our faith and character.

Water as a Symbol of Spiritual Cleansing
The water of purification represents the cleansing power of God's Word and the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Holiness in Everyday Life
The command to purify even material possessions underscores the call to holiness in all aspects of life.

God's Provision for Purification
The provision of specific means for purification in the Old Testament points to God's ultimate provision for our purification through Jesus Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the purification process in Numbers 31:23 reflect God's desire for holiness among His people?

2. In what ways can the concept of purification by fire and water be applied to our spiritual lives today?

3. How do the purification rituals in the Old Testament foreshadow the work of Christ in the New Testament?

4. What are some "spoils" or influences in your life that need to be purified, and how can you apply God's Word to this process?

5. How can understanding the original Hebrew context of purification deepen our appreciation for the spiritual cleansing offered through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11
Discusses the laws of clean and unclean, providing a broader context for understanding the importance of purification in the Israelite community.

Malachi 3:2-3
Describes God as a refiner's fire, purifying His people, which parallels the purification process in Numbers 31:23.

1 Peter 1:7
Compares the testing of faith to the refining of gold by fire, echoing the purification theme.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Explains how the blood of Christ purifies our conscience, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament purification rituals.