Conquests of a New Generation

Numbers 20-21 begins talking about the generation which grew up in the wilderness. Moses and Aaron disqualify themselves from leading this generation into the Promised Land because of their failure to follow God's instructions, and Aaron shortly dies thereafter, his ministry continued by Eleazar. The nation as a whole is denied passage through Edom, forcing Israel to fight its way through to the Promised Land. Their victories at Hormah, Heshbon, and Bashan prepare the people for what lies ahead and puts fear into all the surrounding nations.

One of the biggest victories the people have, however, is over themselves.  After complaining against Moses and God, many are bitten by poisonous snakes, which they are cured from by looking at a bronze serpent on a pole.  The example of the bronze serpent is used by Christ to reveal His own saving power to those who believe.