numbers 23
Summary
Describes Balaam's attempts to curse the Israelites at the request of Balak. However, each time Balaam speaks, he ends up blessing Israel instead, as God directs his words.
Key Points:
First Oracle: Balaam instructs Balak to build seven altars and offer sacrifices. When Balaam speaks, he blesses Israel, declaring that they are a people set apart and blessed by God (Numbers 23:1-10).
Balak's Displeasure: Balak is displeased with Balaam's blessing and takes him to another location, hoping for a different outcome (Numbers 23:11-13).
Second Oracle: After offering sacrifices again, Balaam delivers a second oracle, reaffirming that God has blessed Israel and that His blessing cannot be reversed (Numbers 23:14-24).
God's Unchanging Nature: Balaam emphasizes that God is not a man that He should lie or change His mind, and what He has blessed cannot be cursed (Numbers 23:19-20).
Balak's Frustration: Balak is further frustrated by Balaam's continued blessings and takes him to yet another location for a third attempt (Numbers 23:25-30).
New Covenant Reflections
God's Unchanging Nature: Balaam declares that God is not a man that He should lie or change His mind. This reflects the New Covenant's emphasis on God's faithfulness and unchanging nature, assuring believers of His steadfast promises (Numbers 23:19).
Blessing of God's People: Despite Balak's attempts to curse Israel, God ensures that His people are blessed. This mirrors the New Covenant promise that believers are blessed in Christ and cannot be separated from God's love (Numbers 23:20).
God's Sovereignty: The narrative underscores God's ultimate authority and control over all creation. Balaam acknowledges that he can only speak what God commands, highlighting the New Covenant's emphasis on God's sovereignty and His plan for salvation through Jesus Christ (Numbers 23:26).
Protection and Deliverance: God's protection over Israel, as emphasized by Balaam, reflects the New Covenant promise of God's protection and deliverance for believers through Jesus Christ (Numbers 23:21-23).