numbers 24
Summary
Describes Balaam's final attempts to curse Israel, which turn into blessings and prophecies about Israel's future. Balaam delivers three more oracles, each affirming God's favor and the future triumphs of Israel.
Key Points:
Third Oracle: Balaam, seeing that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel, does not seek enchantments but sets his face toward the wilderness. He delivers a blessing, describing Israel's prosperity and strength (Numbers 24:1-9).
Balak's Anger: Balak's anger is kindled against Balaam for blessing Israel instead of cursing them, and he sends Balaam away without reward (Numbers 24:10-11).
Fourth Oracle: Balaam prophesies about a star coming out of Jacob and a scepter rising out of Israel, foretelling the future dominance of Israel over its enemies (Numbers 24:15-19).
Fifth Oracle: Balaam speaks about the fate of Amalek, predicting their eventual destruction (Numbers 24:20).
Sixth Oracle: Balaam prophesies the downfall of the Kenites, foreseeing their captivity (Numbers 24:21-22).
Seventh Oracle: Balaam concludes with a prophecy about the ships from Kittim that will afflict Asshur and Eber, indicating future conflicts (Numbers 24:23-24)
Further Prophecies: Balaam continues to prophesy about the downfall of various nations, including Amalek and the Kenites, and predicts the eventual destruction of Asshur and Eber (Numbers 24:20-24).
Balaam and Balak Depart: After delivering his prophecies, Balaam returns to his place, and Balak also goes his way (Numbers 24:25).
New Covenant Reflections
God's Sovereignty and Blessing: Despite Balak's attempts to curse Israel, God ensures that Balaam blesses them instead. This reflects the New Covenant promise that believers are blessed in Christ and cannot be separated from God's love (Romans 8:38-39) (Numbers 24:1-9).
Prophecy of a Future Ruler: Balaam's fourth oracle includes a prophecy about a star and a scepter rising out of Israel, which is often seen as a messianic prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ. This aligns with the New Covenant's focus on Jesus as the promised Messiah and King (Matthew 2:2) (Numbers 24:17).
God's Unchanging Nature: Balaam emphasizes that God does not lie or change His mind, highlighting His faithfulness and reliability. This mirrors the New Covenant's assurance of God's unchanging nature and His steadfast promises (Hebrews 13:8) (Numbers 24:19).
Victory Over Enemies: The prophecies about the downfall of Israel's enemies reflect the New Covenant promise of victory over spiritual enemies through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57) (Numbers 24:17-24).