numbers 21
Summary
Describes the Israelites' victory over the Canaanites, the incident of the bronze serpent, their journey through various territories, and their victories over Sihon and Og.
Key Points:
Defeat of the Canaanites: The Israelites are attacked by the Canaanite king of Arad. They vow to the Lord to destroy the Canaanite cities if He delivers them into their hands. God listens, and they utterly destroy the Canaanites and their cities (Numbers 21:1-3).
The Bronze Serpent: The Israelites complain about the lack of food and water, leading God to send fiery serpents among them. Many are bitten and die. Moses intercedes, and God instructs him to make a bronze serpent. Those who look at it are healed (Numbers 21:4-9).
Journey to Moab: The Israelites continue their journey, making several stops before arriving at the border of Moab (Numbers 21:10-20).
Defeat of Sihon and the Amorites: The Israelites request passage through the land of the Amorites, but King Sihon refuses and attacks them. The Israelites defeat Sihon and take possession of his land (Numbers 21:21-30).
Defeat of Og, King of Bashan: King Og of Bashan attacks the Israelites, but they defeat him and take possession of his land as well (Numbers 21:31-35).
New Covenant Reflections
Provision and Healing: The incident of the bronze serpent, where those who looked at it were healed, foreshadows Jesus' crucifixion. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the bronze serpent, believers are saved by looking to Jesus in faith (John 3:14-15) (Numbers 21:4-9).
Victory Over Enemies: The Israelites' victories over the Canaanites, Amorites, and King Og of Bashan reflect the New Covenant promise of victory over spiritual enemies through Jesus Christ (Romans 8:37) (Numbers 21:1-3, 21-35).
God's Faithfulness: Despite the Israelites' complaints and failures, God remains faithful in providing for their needs and leading them to victory. This mirrors the New Covenant's emphasis on God's faithfulness and grace towards believers (2 Timothy 2:13) (Numbers 21:2-9).
Intercession and Mediation: Moses' role as an intercessor for the people points to Jesus as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity in the New Covenant (1 Timothy 2:5) (Numbers 21:7-9).