BIBLE READING PLANNER

THE BOOK OF NUMBERS

Numbers, the fourth book of Moses, is so called because it contains two 'numberings' (censuses) of Israel in the wilderness (Numbers chapter 1 & chapter 26).

Nearly all the generation that left Egypt at the time of the Exodus died in the wilderness because of lack of FAITH. A new generation was then given the opportunity to show more faith in the word of God.

Numbers continues the account of how the 12 tribes became a nation ready to occupy the land of Canaan.

CHRIST AND THE WILDERNESS JOURNEY

Israel's experiences provide many 'types' or 'shadows' pointing forward to Christ.

In NUMBERS we meet several examples, including:

Caleb - man of faith of the tribe of Judah (14:24).

• Joshua - his Hebrew name is the same as the Greek name Jesus and he too became leader of God's people (14:30).
• Aaron - the High Priest. Jesus is the greater High Priest (Hebrews 7:11,22).
• Aaron's rod that budded (17:8). See note below.
• The smitten rock (Exodus 17:6 compared with Numbers 20:11, 1 Corinthians 10:4).

• The brazen serpent - like Christ crucified (Numbers 21:8-9; John 3:14).

DAILY NOTES

SUNDAY - Numbers 14 - Verse 21. In spite of man, God will fulfil His promise to fill the earth with His glory. Compare Habakkuk 2:14.

MONDAY - Numbers 17 - Verse 8. The almonds coming from a dead rod point forward to Christ and the resurrection.

TUESDAY - Numbers 20 - Moses was commanded to speak to the rock (verse 8) but he smote it (verse 11) and displeased God.

WEDNESDAY - Numbers 21 - Neither the tabernacle nor the sacrifices of the Law could help Israel on this occasion, but faith in what God prescribed, pointing again to Christ.

THURSDAY - Numbers 22 - God's angel was an adversary (the Hebrew word is 'Satan') to prevent Balaam cursing Israel (verse 22).

FRIDAY - Numbers 23 - God will keep His promises about Israel, made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (verse 19 and Romans 11:29).