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The Bible was not written to convince us that we are good, but rather, to illustrate that God is good despite how much we fail. This is clearly seen in the book of Numbers. Moses can hardly turn his head for a second before the people are complaining, chasing idolatry or engaging in sexual immorality.
Numbers 25 is most likely two stories blended into one narrative. We read about the general sin of the people playing harlot with the daughters of Moab. Then we read a specific example where a Simeonite named Zimri becomes involved with a Midianite woman named Cozbi. There is evidence to indicate she may have been a priestess of Baal.
Probably the most troubling part of the story is the phrase, “in the sight of Moses and in the sight of all the congregation.” Some commentators even believe he engaged in sexual acts in plain view outside the tent. I am not arguing that it would have been better had they done it in secret, however, it does show just how calloused Zimri’s heart had become. He had no fear of being held accountable for what he knew was a terrible decision. Moreso, he had no fear of God.
This is a problem that plagues the church today. No fear. No reverence. No problems. I’m covered in grace, right? Jesus will forgive me later. In the meantime, I’ll just go on sinning in plain sight because no one can judge me. How and why does this happen?
It starts as a subtle compromise. We entertain it and it grows. Conviction comes but we continually push it aside. Before long, we’ve seared our conscience and opened our hearts to more of what we want and less of what God wants. But it starts with fear… or lack thereof. The Bible speaks extensively on how foundational the fear of God is to our relationship with Him.
“Now then let the fear of the LORD be upon you; be very careful what you do, for the LORD our God will have no part in unrighteousness or partiality or the taking of a bribe.”
2 Chronicles 19:7 NASB
“And to man He said, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; And to depart from evil is understanding.'”
Job 28:28 NASB
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Proverbs 1:7 NASB
The reward of humility and the fear of the LORD Are riches, honor and life.
Proverbs 22:4 NASB
And He will be the stability of your times, A wealth of salvation, wisdom and knowledge; The fear of the LORD is his treasure.
Isaiah 33:6 NASB
So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.
Acts 9:31 NASB
How comfortable have you become these days in your waywardness? What will it take to restore in you a fear (reverence) of the Lord?