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Lists of names… census figures… what is this all about?
The Book of Numbers takes place just before the Israelites are led into the Promised Land. It records the awkward in-between moments where they wait with anticipation while also trying to obey in the current circumstances. As you will read, it was not easy. There were many struggles and shortcomings. But through discipline and instruction, God led His people to worship Him and trust in His Mighty Hand.
Although the long name lists are foreign to us, they represent the “final roll call” before victory. Though they were orphans, God cared for them. He actually multiplied their families during this uncomfortable time in the wilderness.
The first census we read (chapters 1-4) represents the first generation of God’s people freed from Egypt. Unfortunately, this generation was stubborn, untrusting, and blamed God for their problems quite often (as we will find out later). The hope that will be offered in Numbers is that God is faithful to His promises regardless of our own rebellion. However, this chapter also outlines the consequences for such behavior. Those who rebelled would not see the blessings firsthand.
The book opens with, “Then the LORD spoke to Moses in the wilderness of Sinai…” The wilderness is fitting on many levels. It’s literally where they were journeying but it also describes the spiritual wasteland that was evident among the people. They needed to have their faith tested. The same is true for us.
We will never grow in our faith outside trials. Many of us love to be blessed by God but unfortunately become stagnant and spoiled as we want to do nothing while He does everything. The trials will either strengthen us to a new resolve or reveal the shallowness of our faith. And many times, we will have to come to a place of complete humility in order to learn what God has been speaking to us.
Numbers 1 opens one year and one month after Israel has departed Egypt in dramatic fashion. It has also been about one month since the tabernacle was constructed in Exodus 40. Why is it called Numbers? The people are actually numbered twice (beginning in verse 1 and again in verse 26).
Practically speaking, it made sense to number the tribes and organize them in marching order as they journeyed toward the Promised Land. We read that one man from each tribe was assigned to help Moses take the census. The Levites were not included because they were in charge of constructing and deconstructing the tabernacle. This was their ministry to God and to the people.
“The Levites were not included because, in a very special sense, they belonged to God. He therefore was responsible for their well-being as He is for all of us who are united by faith with Christ-the true Aaron.”
F.B. Meyer