Numbers 32:15

For if you turn away from following Him, He will once again leave this people in the wilderness, and you will be the cause of their destruction."

Study Bible

For if you turn away from following Him,
This phrase serves as a warning against apostasy and disobedience. In the context of Numbers 32, the tribes of Reuben and Gad requested to settle east of the Jordan River, which could be seen as a reluctance to fully enter the Promised Land. Turning away from God is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, often leading to dire consequences. This echoes the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28 about the blessings of obedience and the curses of disobedience. It also reflects the human tendency to stray from God, as seen in the story of the Israelites' repeated cycles of sin and repentance in the Book of Judges.

He will once again leave this people in the wilderness,
This phrase recalls the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness as a result of the Israelites' lack of faith and disobedience after the Exodus from Egypt. The wilderness represents a place of testing and judgment, as well as a period of divine discipline. The threat of returning to the wilderness underscores the seriousness of the consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a reminder of the previous generation that perished in the wilderness due to their unbelief, as recorded in Numbers 14. The wilderness experience is also a type of spiritual journey, symbolizing the trials believers face before reaching their ultimate rest in God.

and you will be the cause of their destruction.”
This phrase highlights the communal responsibility and the potential impact of individual actions on the larger community. The decision of the tribes of Reuben and Gad could lead to discouragement and division among the Israelites, ultimately resulting in their downfall. This reflects the biblical principle that sin and disobedience can have far-reaching effects, not just on the individual but on the entire community. The concept of corporate responsibility is seen throughout Scripture, such as in the sin of Achan in Joshua 7, which brought trouble upon all Israel. It also points to the importance of unity and collective faithfulness in achieving God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is addressing the tribes of Reuben and Gad regarding their request to settle on the east side of the Jordan River.

2. Reuben and Gad
Two tribes of Israel who requested to settle in the land of Gilead, east of the Jordan, instead of crossing into the Promised Land.

3. The Wilderness
The place where the Israelites wandered for 40 years due to their disobedience and lack of faith.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from Egypt and were on their journey to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness to God’s Commands
The importance of remaining faithful to God's commands is emphasized. Turning away from God can lead to dire consequences, not only for individuals but for the entire community.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Disobedience can result in prolonged hardship and delay in receiving God's promises. The Israelites' 40-year journey in the wilderness serves as a stark reminder.

Community Responsibility
The actions of a few can impact the whole community. The tribes of Reuben and Gad were reminded that their decision could lead to the destruction of the entire nation.

Trust in God’s Promises
Trusting in God's promises requires action and sometimes sacrifice. The tribes were challenged to trust God by entering the Promised Land rather than settling for immediate comfort.

Spiritual Vigilance
Believers are called to be vigilant in their spiritual walk, ensuring that they do not turn away from following God, as this can lead to spiritual wilderness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the request of the tribes of Reuben and Gad reflect a lack of trust in God's promises, and how can we apply this lesson to our own lives?

2. In what ways can the actions of a few individuals impact the larger community of believers today?

3. How does the concept of spiritual wilderness apply to modern Christian life, and what steps can we take to avoid it?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that we remain faithful to God's commands in our daily lives?

5. How can we encourage one another to trust in God's promises, especially when faced with difficult decisions or circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 1:26-36
This passage recounts the Israelites' initial refusal to enter the Promised Land due to fear, leading to their wandering in the wilderness.

Hebrews 3:12-19
This New Testament passage warns believers against having an unbelieving heart that turns away from God, using the Israelites' wilderness experience as an example.

Joshua 22:16-18
This passage describes a later incident where the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh are questioned about their loyalty to God, highlighting the ongoing concern for faithfulness.