Numbers 9:9

Then the LORD said to Moses,

Study Bible

Then the LORD said to Moses,
This phrase indicates direct communication from God to Moses, a common occurrence in the Pentateuch, highlighting Moses' unique role as a prophet and leader of Israel. This divine communication underscores the authority of the instructions that follow. In the context of Numbers, God often speaks to Moses to provide guidance for the Israelites, emphasizing the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people. This phrase also reflects the theocratic nature of Israel's leadership, where God is the ultimate authority. The phrase connects to other instances where God speaks directly to Moses, such as in Exodus 3:4 at the burning bush, reinforcing Moses' role as a mediator between God and the Israelites.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who communicates His will and instructions to His people through Moses.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. He serves as the mediator between God and the Israelites.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt, learning to live according to God's laws and commands.

4. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites are journeying towards the Promised Land, a place of testing, learning, and divine provision.

5. Passover
The event and festival commemorating God's deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt, which is the context for the instructions given in Numbers 9.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Just as God gave specific instructions to Moses, we are called to obey God's Word in our lives. Obedience is a demonstration of our faith and trust in God.

The Role of Leadership
Moses serves as a mediator and leader, showing the importance of godly leadership in guiding others according to God's will. Leaders today are called to seek God's guidance and lead with integrity.

The Importance of Remembrance
The Passover is a reminder of God's deliverance. We are encouraged to remember and celebrate God's faithfulness in our lives, fostering gratitude and trust in His promises.

God's Communication with His People
God speaks to His people, providing guidance and direction. We are reminded to seek God's voice through prayer and Scripture, being attentive to His leading.

Community and Worship
The instructions for Passover were given to the community of Israel, highlighting the importance of communal worship and shared faith experiences in strengthening our walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Moses as a mediator between God and the Israelites inform our understanding of leadership in the church today?

2. In what ways can we practice obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, and what challenges might we face in doing so?

3. How does the observance of Passover in the Old Testament connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus as our Passover lamb?

4. What are some practical ways we can remember and celebrate God's faithfulness in our personal and communal lives?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper sensitivity to God's communication with us through prayer and Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Provides the original instructions for the Passover, which is the context for the instructions in Numbers 9. It highlights the importance of remembering God's deliverance.

Leviticus 23
Lists the appointed feasts of the LORD, including Passover, emphasizing the significance of these observances in the life of Israel.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul refers to Christ as our Passover lamb, drawing a parallel between the Old Testament Passover and the sacrifice of Jesus, highlighting the continuity of God's redemptive plan.