"Seven Feasts of the Lord"
#4 - Day of Atonement (Part One)
Leviticus 23:26-32
I. Introduction
In the 1st month (Nisan), we saw 3 feasts that depicted the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The 4th feast, Pentecost, took place exactly 50 days following the Feast of Tabernacles. What a picture of the descent of the Holy Spirit and the Birth of the Church, made up of Jew & Gentile.
Last week we looked at the 5th feast, the Feast of Trumpets - What a glorious picture we see of the Church Age and the Rapture of the Church - "Pre-Millennial Rapture".
There were 3 feasts in the first month; then Pentecost; in the 7th month (Tishrei), there are also 3 feasts. The first was Trumpets and tonight we look at the most sacred of all Jewish feasts - Yom Kippor or The Day of Atonement.
Read Leviticus 23:26-32We need to go back a few chapters in order to learn about this important and sacred Holy Day - The Day of Atonement.
II. The Day of Atonement (Lev. 17:11; 23:28-32)What was the purpose of the Day of Atonement? It was to show the Jews that God "REQUIRES BLOOD" for Atonement (17:11)
It has always been that way - and always will be that way.
Each year, the nation of Israel observed this feast, and were quite terrified in the doing so.
Lev. 23:28-32 clearly states that the Jew was to do NO WORK and he/she was to "AFFLICT their souls" for a period of 24 hours.Can YOU imagine staying awake 24 hours confessing sins???
You might IF your eternal destiny depended on it!
During this day, the HIGH PRIEST ONLY did work - The same is true today - Only Jesus Christ, our High Priest, can do work necessary for the Atonement of Sins.
There are some great types or shadows of the Lord in this Feast - Lets examine some of them.
III. Pictures of Christ in the Day of Atonement (Lev. 16-17)The Preparation of the Priest (Lev. 16:1-14)
He had to be alone (vs. 1-2; 17) Christ was rejected by His own; He alone could pay our sin debt; even the Father forsook Him while He bore the sins of the world.
He had to lay aside his glorious garments (vs. 4) What a picture of the Lord coming to earth as a MAN! He laid aside His glory, but not His deity! His glory was veiled by a robe of flesh. (Phil. 2:5-8)He had to wash (vs. 4) Christ is seen sanctifying Himself - He had no defilements to cleanse as did the priest, but He did sanctify Himself for our sakes (Jn. 17:19). He was completely dedicated to the Father in fulfilling the task at hand - Calvary.
He had to offer a sin offering for himself (vs. 6, 11) It is here that there is no type - Christ is Pre-eminent! (Heb. 7:23-28).
He had to take the incense into the Holy of Holies (vs. 12-13)The High Priest went into the Holy of Holies 3 times on that day - some say 4 - He first went into to burn the incense; there he went with the bulls blood for his own sin offering; then he went in to sprinkle the goat’s blood for the sins of Israel. The first visit is important - The incense represents praise & glory to God - Christ did not come to simply die for sinners -He died FOR the Glory of God the Father! Read Ephesians Ch. 1 and notice how often Paul states, "to the praise of His glory."
He had to offer blood for himself upon mercy seat (vs. 14) Again, there is no type of Christ seen here, for Christ needed offering for sin; however, the priest did in order that he might offer sacrifice for others.
The Presentation of the Goats (Lev. 16:15-34)The goats (2) were actually ONE Sacrifice; although one lived and one died; these two goats beautifully picture what Christ did on the Cross for the whole world.
Explain the "Scapegoat"Emphasize the difference between "covering" & "remitting"
The Book of Hebrews is filled with "greater than" examples of Christ in comparison to these rituals in the O.T. Law.
Only AFTER this work was done, did the high priest put on his garments of glory once more!III. Prophetic Pictures of the Day of Atonement (Lev. 23:28-32)
As do the first four feasts, the Day of Atonement also pictures a prophetic picture for us.
There is no N.T. fulfillment of the Day of Atonement - This is a day which is extremely Jewish.
When will this Day of Atonement come to pass??? The Tribulation Period will see the ultimate fulfillment of this great feast.
Lev. 17 emphasized the Importance of the Blood!
The Blood is the only sacrifice that God will accept; It is only acceptable in one place - The Door of the Tabernacle!
My friend, I will never apologize for preaching about the Blood of Jesus Christ - It is the Blood and the Blood alone that enables us to have salvation (1 Pet. 1:18-19).
The Jews did not believe that Jesus was the Lamb of God - The Messiah - who had come to take away sin in the flesh.
My friends - Zechariah 12-13 reveal clearly that the DAY is Coming WHEN Israel WILL LOOK & WAIL as they look upon the Lamb of God!
READ Zech. 12:10-13:1; 6
There is coming a DAY when the whole world will KNOW that Jesus was all that was needed for Atonement of Sin.
READ Rom. 11:26 - Amazingly, the remnant of Israel will be saved because Jesus has returned.
Matt. 24:15-27; Rev. 7:9-17IV. Conclusion
"Seven Feasts of the Lord"
#5 - Day of Atonement (Part 2)
Lev. 23:26-32
I. Introduction
Last week we began discussing the 6th feast - The Day of Atonement - the most holy day of the year for the Jews.
It was on this particular day - the 10th day of the 7th month (Tishrei) - that the High Priest entered into the Holy of Holies to offer sacrifice for the atonement of the sins of "national Israel".
There were many particular rituals performed by the High Priest -
1st - He prepared himself for the work2nd - He did the work "Alone"
3rd - He laid aside his glorious garments
4th - He offered a "Sin Offering" for himself (bullock)
5th - He offered incense within the Holy of Holies
6th - He sprinkled the bull’s blood upon and before the ark
7th - He offered "Sin Offering" for the people (2 goats)
8th - He slew one and sprinkled the blood of it upon and before the ark
9th - He then sent one into the wilderness - "Scape-goat"
10th- Only "AFTER" his work was finished did the High Priest put on his "garments of glory" once again.
The Day of Atonement clearly pictures the work of Jesus Christ on the Cross of Calvary - however, His work is "greater than" all of the High Priests of Israel!
Let us now examine the "Prophetic Significance" of this wonderful feast.
II. Prophetic Pictures of the Day of Atonement (Lev. 23:28-32)As do the first four feasts, the Day of Atonement also pictures a prophetic event for us.
vss. 26; 29; 32 - "Ye shall AFFLICT your souls".This means that they were to spend 24 hours in fasting and prayer.
vss. 25; 28; 30; 31 - DO NO WORK!In the matter of Atonement - the only work was done by the High Priest - our work is of no avail!
The consequences of NO Affliction & Work resulted in "Being Cut Off & Destroyed!"
Many believe, as do I, that this feast clearly pictures prophetically the Period of Tribulation.
The 7 Year Period of Tribulation is a period in which God "pur-ges" His Chosen People, Israel, in preparation for The 2nd Coming and 1,000 Year Kingdom.
The Jews did not believe that Jesus Christ was the Messiah foretold by their own prophets of old.
Because of their Rejection of Christ, God set aside the nation of Israel, but He has not "cast away His people" (Rom. 11:1).
As one studies the Scriptures, there are many passages that clearly teach that the Lord God of Israel will one day again deal with them as He once did.
III. Zechariah’s Prophecy (Zech. 12:10-14:9)As we read this great prophesy, we clearly see reference to the Day of the Lord - "The Tribulation Period".
We see reference to many aspects of the Crucified, Buried, Risen, and COMING AGAIN CHRIST who will come, not as the Lamb of God, but as The LION OF JUDAH!!
This same theme can be clearly seen in the New Testament also -
Read - Matthew 24:3-42; Rev. 7; 19My friend, God has not cast away His people!! God Forbid!!
However, this will be a terrible time of "Affliction" for the nation of Israel, as well as any Gentiles that go through the Great Tribula-tion Period!
The Good News is that NO ONE has to go through that terrible, awful period. YOU can Receive Atonement for Sin TODAY!!
IV. Conclusion
"Seven Feasts of the Lord"
#6 - Feast of Tabernacles
Lev. 23:33-44
I. Introduction
Last week we discussed the 6th feast - The Day of Atonement - the most holy day of the year for the Jews.
It was on this particular day - the 10th day of the 7th month (Tishrei) - that the High Priest entered into the Holy of Holies to offer sacrifice for the atonement of the sins of "national Israel".
In connection with this feast is the Feast of Tabernacles - a week long feast beginning on the 15th day of Tishrei and lasting for one whole week until the 21st day of Tishrei (Sept.-Oct.)
II. The Purpose of the Feast of Tabernacles (Lev. 23:43)
The main purpose of the Feast of Tabernacles is revealed in Lev. 23:43 - "That your generations may KNOW that I am brought them OUT OF BONDAGE - I am the Lord your God!"
The nation of Israel needed to be reminded that God ALONE was responsible for their deliverance from captivity.
At a time when the Israelites had just celebrated the Day of Atonement, the Lord now gives a brighter picture of salvation with this 7th feast.
God not only Delivers one from the Bondage of Sin - He also Provides our Daily Needs!
It was the LORD Jehovah who had brought the Jews out of Egypt and the captivity of the Pharaoh, and the feast served as a reminder to all of Israel that He IS the Lord their God!
III. Particulars of the Feast of Tabernacles (Lev. 23:33-44)Each year on the 15th Day of Tishrei - (7th month) or the 7th New Full Moon - devout Jews built little shelters outside their houses and worshipped in them.
This marked the completion of the whole harvest by the ingathering of the grapes.
This was a time when everyone went out into the vineyards for their "communal working holiday" - they lived in tents, and so it was an excellent time to remember what God had done for them when they lived in tents during their wilderness wanderings.
This was a time of "Thanksgiving" for the blessings of the Lord.
Deut. 16:13-16By New Testament times, this feast grew more spectacular.
Tents made of palm leaves were placed on rooftops, in courtyards, and in gardens, and people lived in them for the entire week.
Two priestly processions left the Temple each morning; one went to collect leafy boughs; the other went to the Pool of Siloam.When they returned there was a procession round the altar - once around each of the first 6 days; 7 times around on the 7th day - in commemoration of the "Fall of Jericho".
Then a booth or tabernacle was made for the altar itself.
The water from the Pool of Siloam was poured out on the Temple steps so that it would flow down and out through the Temple to the world outside - indicating the way that the Jewish faith would satisfy the world.
Four (4) candelabra were set up in the Court of the Women; their bowls filled with oil and the wicks made of the garments of priests worn during the previous year.Everyone in Jerusalem could see the light, and there was much music and dancing beneath the flaming torches.
The light symbolized the revelation and truth of the Jewish faith.
IV. The Prophecy of the Feast of Tabernacles (Zech. 14:16-19)The Feast of Tabernacles represents, as do all of the feasts in Lev. 23, something prophetic.
The Lord will provide Shelter during the Kingdom to Come!
This important feast will be observed during the Millennium as prophesied by the prophet Zechariah - Read Zech. 24:16-19.
The Lord will establish His Tabernacle in Jerusalem (Ezek. 37:21-27) and All the World Will KNOW that HE IS LORD!!!
Not everyone today thinks that God stills is concerned about Israel.
Isaiah 1:1-26; 65:1-25 - READ Excerpts of MillenniumV. Conclusion
After looking at these 7 Feasts - it becomes very clear that God did a momentous thing here -
"He forecast the entire career of the Messiah, the Jews, the Church, and even the other nations."
Interesting Meditation -The Seven Feasts reassure us about a "Pre-Tribulation Rapture".
Is It Possible to Pinpoint the Day of the Antichrist’s blasphemy in the Temple of Jerusalem??? (Matt. 24:15)If the Tribulation Period ends with the Day of Atonement, then we must conclude that it also begins with the Atonement 7 years prior.
Since the Day of Atonement is on the 10th day of the 7th month, and since the Antichrist comes exactly in the midst of the Tribulation Period (Dan. 9:27; Rev. 11:1-3), then the day in which the Abomination of Desolation takes place must be at the 3 ½ year point - "THE 10TH DAY OF THE 1ST MONTH IN THE 4TH YEAR"!!!
What is Significant about that DATE??? It is Four (4) Days before the Passover Feast!!
Remember….. the Jews were instructed to choose their passover lamb on the 10th Day of the 1st month in Ex. 12:3.
The Lord Jesus Christ also PRESENTED HIMSELF to the nation of Israel by riding into the gates of Jerusalem on the 10th day of the 1st month - four days before the Passover!
So we see that the Antichrist again attempts to make himself the "Perfect COUNTERFEIT"; arriving at the Temple 4 days before the Passover Feast and "presenting himself as Almighty God"!!!
Christ came riding a donkey - making Himself of NO Reputation; whereas the Antichrist comes claiming to be GOD!!
ARE YOU READY FOR THE FEAST OF TRUMPETS??
IT IS THE NEXT IMPORTANT FEAST ON GOD’S CALENDAR - THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO LEV. 23!
#7- Feast of Tabernacles
"Sabbath Year & Year of Jubilee"
Leviticus 25-27
I. Introduction
READ - Lev. 25:1-10On May 15, 1948, Israel was declared an Independent State.
1998 marks the 50th Anniversary of the State of Israel as a nation.From the Babylonian Captivity, in 606 B.C., until 1948, there was never a sovereign, independent state of Israel.
In our day, we have seen a modern-day miracle performed - a nation which had been dispersed for 2,500 years has once again regained their homeland, having the same capital, Jerusalem, and maintaining the integrity of their ancient language and religion.
This is the 1st Year of Jubilee that Israel has been able to observe in 2-1/2 millenniums.
The first national celebration of the Year of Jubilee for the state of Israel was observed at the home of Ezer Weizman, President of Israel just recently.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was an honored guest and spoke to the gathering.
In light of what is going on in Israel today, fighting, religious factions, division, hatred, threats to bring down government, redeployment of Israeli armies in West Bank, and social division, it is highly unlikely that Israel is getting the point of the Law of Jubilee!II. What Is the Year of Jubilee?
In order to understand what the Year of Jubilee is, we must first understand what a God instituted as a "Sabbath Year."
Lev. 25:1-7 explains "Sabbath Year":
Every 7th Year was a Sabbath (Rest) year.Israel was to sow the land for six (6) years, but not the 7th.
Every 7th year was to be a year of "REST" for the land.
No sowing, pruning, or cultivating of the land was permitted.
The people were to eat only that which grew by itself; not that which they had sown and harvested.
The same was true of all their cattle, herds, and the beasts of the field.
Lev. 25:8-19 explains the Year of Jubilee:
Following Seven (7) Sabbath Years or 7X7 years equaling 49 years, on the Day of Atonement (10th day of the 7th month), a trumpet was sounded signaling the 50th Year - "Jubilee".During this 50th Year called Jubilee, many things were to occur:
Liberty was to be proclaimed throughout all the land.
It was a time of Obedience; Rest; Freedom.
All land and possessions were to be returned to their original owners.
All Slaves (indentured or forced) was to be set free.
Israel was to exercise FAITH in the LORD, Jehovah, to supply their physical needs during a 3 year period.
No sowing, pruning, or cultivating of the land was to be done during the 49th or 50th years.
Jehovah promised Israel that HE WOULD cause the land to yield enough food to last them until the harvest of the 51st year.
III. Why Did God Institute Such Observances?
God instituted the Sabbath Year & Year of Jubilee so that the nation of Israel would enjoy peace, harmony, and land preservation.
Farmers today will quickly tell you that land must lay fallow periodically in order for it to replenish itself.
But God had an even "greater purpose" for instituting these two observances - He Tested Israel’s Faith!
We are quick to announce our faith to others, but "Faith without Works is DEAD!"
Our Faith will never increase unless it is "Put to the TEST!" (John 15:1-8 / no fruit; some fruit; more fruit; much fruit)
HAS GOD PUT YOUR FAITH TO THE TEST LATELY???
IV. Israel’s History of Keeping the Sabbath Year & Jubilee
There is NO Biblical Record that the people of Israel ever made an attempt to keep either laws regarding these two holy years.How sad that God’s Chosen People would not trust God to honor His promises (Lev. 26-27)
As a matter of fact, the reason for Israel’s Babylonian Captivity is cited in 2 Chron. 36:20-21 & Jer. 25:9-12, is the fact that for 490 years Israel failed to observe 70 Sabbaths Years.
During their captivity of 70 years, the land enjoyed its REST.
After Zerrubabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah led the Israelites back to the land of Canaan, they were again given 49 years (7 weeks of years) to build, plant, and harvest crops and to observe the Law of the Sabbath Year & Law of Jubilee.
Again, they failed miserably! Read Malachi 2:2-3; 11; 13
Israel had become an "Idolatrous Nation" which was self-serving and unbelieving!
Since that time until now Israel is still "Unbelieving"!
V. What Is Israel Like Today?
Over 50% of Jewish marriages today are "mixed marriages."Israel’s government is giving God’s Land to Canaanites (Palestinians or PLO)
Estimated 86% of Jews living in Israel are "Atheistic".
Religious community of Judaism is divided by Hatred.
Government cannot agree on the "law of return".
Confusion persists on who really is a Jew.
Orthodox Jews have blocked a reformed Rabbi from tgaking a seat on the religious counsel.
Conservative and Reform Jews world-wide are debating the law of conversion.
Antagonism between the political parties make it impossible for the government to function efficiently.
Personal greed and lust for power has so splintered politics that the two leading party gatherings have ended in riots.
The first assassination of an Israeli Prime Minister, Yitsak Rabin in 1995.
The nation of Israel is well on its way to self-destruct, and many today predict that Israel will separate into northern and southern sections as they did before.
VI. Conclusion
What does all of this mean to Christians???What we see in our day is a definite "setting up of the day in which the Antichrist will be able to rise to power!"
Matt. 24:1-12 - Beginning of Sorrows
Today, Israel celebrates the Year of Jubilee - BUT - "IS IT REALLY A TIME OF REJOICING AND CELEBRATION?"
My friend, "There will be no PEACE in Jerusalem until the Prince of Peace (Jesus Christ) Returns to sit upon the Throne of David!" (READ - Isa. 9:6-7)
"EVEN SO, COME, LORD JESUS!!!"
Balaam: The Son of Beor
In Numbers 22 we find the story of a man named Balaam. Balaam is an interesting character of the Bible. Many who study the Old Testament are prone to think of it only as a historical account of mankind, especially of the nation of Israel. The Apostle Paul instructed the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 10:11 of the purpose of the Old Testament. He wrote, "Now all these things happened unto them (Israel) for examples: and they (recorded incidents) are written for our (New Testament saints) admonition, upon who the ends of the world are come."
When studying characters in the Old Testament, one should keep three important things in mind: 1.) The Holy Spirit discloses both virtues and vices of characters 2.) The Holy Spirit is selective about the accounts of characters recorded 3.) The Holy Spirit teaches us truth in the recording of these accounts, such as the law of sowing and reaping. Lessons concerning sowing and reaping are apparent in the study the life of Balaam. Numbers 22-25 reveals that what Balaam sowed resulted in death.
Numbers 22:1-6 records the first mention of Balaam. Nearly forty years had transpired since the nation of Israel was led out of Egypt. They had traveled down the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula to Mt. Sinai, where Moses received the Law from God. As revealed by the LORD, Moses commanded them to construct a tabernacle, appoint a priesthood, and institute a system of sacrificial offerings. After a year had transpired, the camp of Israel was led by God from Mt. Sinai north through the Sinai Peninsula to a place called Kadesh-Barnea. By the end of the second of year of their journey they had reached their destination.
At Kadesh-Barnea, Israel faltered in unbelief. Their lack of faith resulted in the judgment of God. Because of the unbelief of the people to trust God to deliver the inhabitants of Canaan, they were judged of God to wander in the wilderness for thirty-eight more years. Every Israelite over twenty years of age, except for Joshua and Caleb, would die in the wilderness. They would not enter into His rest because of the hardness of their unbelieving hearts (Psalms 95:7-11). This became what some scholars refer to as the "longest recorded funeral march in history."
Finally, after thirty-eight years of wandering in the wilderness, Israel had returned full circle to Kadesh-Barnea. The time had almost come for them to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. They had attempted to go through the land of Edom, but they had been turned away. They made a great easterly journey around the borders of Moab, just across the Jordan River from the city of Jericho. During this journey they encountered conflicts with some of the kings of the area. Sihon, the king of the Amorites, and Og, the king of Bashan, engaged in battle with the nation of Israel. By the power of God, they defeated both of these kings’ armies.
It is at this point that Numbers 22 takes up the story of Balaam. Balak the son of Zippor and king of Moab saw what Israel military might and was fearful, so he formed an alliance with the elders of Midian to send for the man named "Balaam the son of Beor to Pethor, which is by the river of the land of the children of his people" (Numbers 22:4). Balaam was from the Euphrates River region in a city called Pethor. "Pethor" means "to interpret dreams". Evidently, Pethor was a community of sorcerers and astrologers. It is the same area from which the magi came in search child Jesus. Balaam was a member of this sect of sorcerers and astrologers, and obviously he was a powerful one. The name "Balaam" means "the devourer of people." Balaam’s father’s name, "Beor" means "one who burns up", so Balaam may have come from a long line of powerful sorcerers. No doubt Balak, king of Moab, felt that if Balaam could be seduced to come and place a curse upon the nation of Israel, they could be defeated.
Why study the life of Balaam? Micah 6:5 states, "Oh my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim unto Gilgal; that ye may know the righteousness of the LORD." If Israel was admonished to "remember what Balaam the son of Beor" so that they "may know the righteousness of the LORD", then no doubt we should as well. There is more said in Scripture concerning Balaam than there is Mary, the mother of Jesus. There is more said about Balaam in Scripture than most of the apostles. There are three references of Balaam in the New Testament, and each time Balaam’s name is mentioned in reference with apostasy. In 2 Peter 2:15-16 Peter speaks of "The Way of Balaam." The second New Testament reference to Balaam is found in Jude 11 where the writer speaks of "The Error of Balaam." Lastly, in Revelation 2:14, John mentions Balaam for the third time in the New Testament and speaks of "The Doctrine of Balaam."
Numbers 22 coincides with the first New Testament mention of Balaam. It speaks of "Way of Balaam" which is the "way of covetousness." Numbers 23-24 discusses the "Error of Balaam" which is the "misunderstanding the righteousness of God imputed to sinners." Numbers 25 discloses "The Doctrine of Balaam" which is "The Doctrine of Apostasy." Let us examine these three aspects of Balaam in our endeavor to learn more about this character.
Let us examine the "Way of Balaam" by examining his "piety; price; God’s permissive will in his life; his persistence; pride; insincere penitence; and his progression." The "piety of Balaam" is revealed in Numbers 22:7-13. Balaam’s reputation as a diviner had preceded him. It is interesting to note that God did speak to Balaam, and even gave him a clear answer to his prayer (Numbers 22:12). God instructed Balaam not to go with Balak’s men nor to curse the people of Israel. At this point it is difficult to determine whether or not Balaam is a man of God. However, one should remember that God is "Sovereign", and He sometimes uses evil men to do His bidding. He who has made all things has every right to do whatever He so desires. At this point in the story Balaam informed Balak’s men that the LORD had refused him to go with them.
The "price of Balaam" is found in Numbers 22:14-19. Balak would not take, "No," for an answer. Obviously, Balaam’s ability as a sorcerer was so extraordinary that Balak would stop at nothing to acquire his help. This time Balak sent his very best men to make Balaam an offer to come. It is here that we see Balaam’s "price." The LORD had already given Balaam a clear response to his prayer in verse 12. Now Balaam is offered more money and power. In Numbers 22:18 we see the real desire of Balaam’s heart - "If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold,…." What prompted this comment by Balaam? "But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart" (Matthew 15:18).
Balaam told Balak’s servants to spend the night while he went to the Lord in prayer a second time. How often we do the same in our own lives? We pray for an answer from God, but if the answer is not want we want, we repeatedly seek God to give us the answer we desire. In Numbers 22:20-21 we see the "permissive will of God in Balaam’s life." The law of "sowing and reaping" establishes that we reap what we sow. God often allows us to "get what we want" in order to teach us valuable lessons in life. This is a very important principle of God’s Word is taught in Psalms 106:15 - "And he gave them their request; but sent leanness unto their souls." This time God told Balaam to go with the men, and Balaam did. No doubt he had ulterior motives for wanting to go. In Numbers 22:22 we read, "God’s anger was kindled because he went." Why? Because it was not God’s will that Balaam should go with these men. God made man a "free moral agent." God allows man to make choices even contrary to His will.
Balaam’s "persistence" is revealed clearly in Numbers 22:22-26. In this familiar story Balaam was set on going his own way. He was blind to the Lord’s attempts to thwart his efforts. This is what the Apostle Peter called the "Way of Balaam" in 2 Peter 2:15-16. The "Way of Balaam" is the wrong way driven by covetousness rather than love of God. The "Way of Balaam" is a sinful way; motivated greed and lust and covetousness. Isaiah wrote, "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way…." The world’s philosophy is to get bigger and better or more and more. This thirst for things that will satisfy is a never-ending treadmill that will always result in disappointment and despair. Three times the Lord stood in the way of Balaam, but each time he was too blind and insensitive to God’s will to see Him.
The "pride of Balaam" is evidenced by his mistreatment of his loyal donkey. In Numbers 22:27-33 we see the miracle of Balaam’s ass speaking to its master. When the ass saw the angel of the LORD (a theophany or preincarnate appearance of Jesus Christ) standing in the way, the donkey fell down bowing his head. The most amazing thing about this miracle is not the fact that the donkey spoke, but that Balaam was not as discerning as his donkey. Balaam’s eyes were spiritually blinded with greed, pride, and arrogance. He was consumed with the covetousness of Balak’s offer to him.
Finally, when Balaam was confronted personally by the angel of the LORD in verse 32-33, we see the "penitence of Balaam." The problem with his confession of sin is that it was not heartfelt and sincere. Notice in Numbers 22:34 that Balaam said, "…now therefore, IF it displease thee, I will get me back again." How futile it is when we try to confess sin without being sincere. God knows the hearts of men, and nothing can be hidden from Him. Balaam’s repentance was actually only "lip service." Balaam knew that it displeased God for him to go with Balak’s men. In Numbers 22:12 God had told him not to go with Balak’s men nor to curse Israel. Yet Balaam persisted in going, and God’s permissive will allowed Balaam in order to teach him a lesson.
In Numbers 22:36-41 we find the "progression of Balaam." Even after the Lord’s gracious efforts to hinder Balaam, he continued with Balak’s men knowing full well that God did not want him to go. Again we see a lesson in the law of sowing and reaping (Galatians 6:7-8). The "Way of Balaam" was the way of disobedience to God. "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death" (Proverbs 14:12).
The second mention of Balaam in the New Testament is found in Jude 11 - "Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward…." The "Error of Balaam" is discussed in Numbers 23-24. In these two chapters of God’s Word we find four prophesies foretold by Balaam to Balak, king of Moab. Balak wanted Balaam to curse the nation of Israel, but Balaam could only speak the words in which the LORD gave him to speak. We see the Sovereignty of God in the manipulation of Balaam’s messages to Balak.
Balaam’s first prophesy concerning Israel (Numbers 23:7-12) was that they would have "posterity" as a great nation. Israel had a bright future regardless of what man thinks or does. The second of Balaam’s prophesies concerning Israel revealed the "error of Balaam" which was not understanding that salvation is dependent upon our "position, not our practice." In Numbers 23:13-26 we learn that Balak wanted Balaam to curse the people of Israel, but God put a word in the mouth of Balaam (vs. 16). In Numbers 23:19-23 Balaam spoke of how God had not beheld iniquity in Jacob (Israel). Certainly Israel had sinned repeatedly. Throughout the Book of Numbers one can easily see that Israel had sinned, that God would send judgment, and finally Israel would repent. Time and time again this cycle was repeated with the same results. The "error of Balaam" is very common today. Balaam did not understand that it was the "position of Israel", and not their practice that God looked upon. The same is true today in our salvation. It is the believer’s position, not their practice that God considers when determining whether or not a person is declared righteous by God! Notice Numbers 23:21-23, "What hath God wrought!" Romans 3:26 states, "To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he (God) might be just, and the justifier of him (sinner) which believeth in Jesus.".
In Romans 3:21-31 we can read the very essence of righteousness. "But NOW.." are words that would scream at the top of their voices if they could speak. In this passage of Romans we find everything we need to know about salvation. Here the Apostle Paul teaches the foundation of salvation revealing that it is by faith and not works. Our salvation is dependent upon the substitutionary death of the Lord Jesus Christ and His subsequent resurrection. Today Christ is seated at the right hand of God making intercession for all who come to Him in faith believing. Without such a High Priest interceding on our behalf, we could never know the joy of sins forgiven.
Balaam’s "error" was that he did not understand the doctrine of imputation. By faith the righteousness of Christ is imputed (placed on our account) unto us. We are not righteous because our own merit, but we are counted righteous by faith. Romans 4:2 clearly states, "For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness." Romans 5:1 says, "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Many today do not understand that justification is by faith and not works. They believe that one must DO something in
order to receive or maintain salvation. Eternal life is a gift to be received, and it is not a reward to be earned. Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly indicates, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."
The third prophesy of Balaam is concerned with the "prosperity of Israel" (Numbers 24:1-3-9). Balaam prophesied that Israel would become fruitful and thatprosperity and blessings would befall them in the days to come. This angered Balak as had the previous prophesies. It is interesting that each time that Balaam gave a good prophesy concerning Israel, Balak became angry and took Balaam to another vantage point to inspect Israel. People in the world will also scrutinize believers from all angles looking for something in which to criticize us.
The fourth prophesy is found in Numbers 24:15-25. Balaam speaks of the "preeminence of the Prince of Peace" which should one day come in the latter days. When the Lord Jesus Christ returns the second time He will establish His Kingdom upon this earth and rule and reign from His throne in Jerusalem. What a glorious day that will be in the nation of Israel. God hath not forsaken nor forgotten His chosen people.
The third mention of Balaam in the New Testament is found in Revelation 2:14. Here John discusses the "Doctrine of Balaam." The doctrine of Balaam is discussed in whole in Numbers 25 where we find that Balaam taught Balak how to "corrupt Israel from within." Since God would not allow Balaam to curse Israel directly, Balaam chose to indirectly cause the nation of Israel to commit apostasy. In Numbers 31:16 we find evidence of Balaam’s involvement - "Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass against the LORD in the matter of Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD."
Israel committed whoredom with the women of Moab. They committed idolatry by worshipping Moabite idols, and because they became unequally yoked with these heathen people, God sent judgement upon Israel. In Numbers 25:4-9 we find that 24,000 Israelites died because of a plague upon them. There were also many who were hung for their part in leading others astray. One of the most noble characters in the Word of God is found in Numbers 25:7-18. Phinehas, the son of Eleazar and the grandson of Aaron took a bold stand against sin. He killed Zimri and Cozbi who dared to infest the camp of Israel with their sin. He is memorialized by the LORD in Numbers 25:11. The church today needs more people like Phinehas who are willing to stand against evil and apostasy. Phinehas’ actions turned away God’s anger from the children of Israel. God is a jealous God. If He is not on the throne; He will De-throne!
Balaam ultimately reaped what he sowed. In Numbers 31 we find that the children of Israel were avenged. Israel armed themselves and went to war against the Midianites with twelve thousand men, a thousand from each tribe. This united effort was led by Phinehas, the one who had distinguished himself in Numbers 25. They slew the kings of Midian. In Numbers 31:8 we read, "And they slew the kings of Midian, beside the rest of them that were slain; namely, Evi, and Rekem, and Zur, and Hur, and Reba, five kings of Midian: Balaam also the son of Beor they slew with the sword." We see in this verse the law of sowing and reaping exemplified. "The Way of Balaam" was the "way of covetousness"; "The Error of Balaam" was not understanding how that God could be just and the justifier of sinful men; "The Doctrine of Balaam" was corrupting the nation of Israel from within. Balaam was killed because he sowed to the flesh. Galatians 6:7-8 states, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked; for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting."
Moses Looks Back
Book of Deuteronomy is very practical, and there are many lessons to be learned in the study of this Old Testament book. Forgetfulness is a common problem of mankind. No doubt the curse placed upon man as a result of his fall has affected our ability to remember as we should. The Book of Deuteronomy is often referred to as the "Book of Remembrance." In this book Moses reflects back upon various aspects of Israel’s wilderness wanderings, and he reminds them of lessons they should learn and remember. It is said, "The man who does not learn from the past is destined to repeat it."
There is a "New Generation" of Israelites now. All of the Israelites who were over twenty years of age have died in the wilderness, except for Moses, Joshua, and Caleb. Their wilderness journey is nearly over, and they are about to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Moses is now going to remind this new generation of lessons they should have learned during the past forty years.
In Deuteronomy 1-3 Moses reminds Israel of "God’s Guidance." The nation had spent forty years wandering when the journey should only have taken them eleven days. It is a tragedy when believers exercise unbelief! God desires to bless us exceeding abundantly more than we could ever think or ask, yet unbelief squanders the blessings of God and causes heartache. Unbelief causes God’s people to waste time, energy, and talents, and certainly God is not glorified when we fail to believe His promises.
Moses wanted to "engrave" God’s law into the hearts of Israel’s new generation who would now continue where their forefathers had failed. As they cross over Jordan and enter into the Promised Land, they needed to be reminded that God would not fail to guide them if they would be faithful. In Deuteronomy 1, Moses reminded Israel that it was God who had delivered them from Egyptian slavery and led them to Mt. Horeb where they had received God’s commandments at Mt. Sinai. It was God who had instructed them to build a tabernacle and institute their priesthood and sacrificial worship. It was God who instructed them to be organized and prepared to enter into Canaan Land. It would serve this new generation well to understand that it was the unbelief of their forefathers that halted their forward progress and caused their tragic funeral march through the wilderness for forty years. Moses did not want this generation to make the same mistakes.
In Deuteronomy 2:3 Moses relayed the LORD’s words to Israel, "Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward." In this passage, Moses tells Israel that God would have them enter into the Promised Land now. In Deuteronomy 2:4-7 God instructs them to "take ye good heed unto yourselves therefore: Meddle not with them…" It is important that Israel be a separated people. The same can be applied to every Christian today. We too are exhorted to "come out from among them" and to be separated. Moses admonishes Israel in Deuteronomy 2:7 by reminding them how that God has cared for them, "For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness: these forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing." While there were three nations that Israel was to avoid, Edom (the descendants of Esau), and Moab and Ammon (the descendants of Lot), God did promised that He would protect them as they passed through the their borders. The promise of God’s guidance and protection is important as we travel through the wilderness of the world.
In Deuteronomy 2:24-3:29, Moses reflected on how God had allowed Israel to fight and conquer several nations. While the nation of Israel had come to their borders peacefully, these wicked heathen nations attacked them, so God conquered them as an illustration of His power. The surrounding heathen nations soon feared the nation of Israel and their God. Another reason why the LORD enabled the Israelites to defeat these nations was that land would be available for the 21/2 tribes that would settle east of the Jordan River. Those strong, walled cities that caused the former generation of Israel to fear entering into the Promised Land had now been conquered by their descendents. Moses reminded this new generation that God is able to overcome the circumstances and obstacles of life, even the armies of nations who opposed them. In Deuteronomy 3:22 Moses said, "Ye shall not fear them: for the LORD your God he shall fight for you." No doubt this served as a great encouragement to them as they prepared to enter into Canaan.
Moses prayed for God to allow him to cross over Jordan into the Promised Land, but because Moses had disobeyed God’s command speak to the Rock, and instead he struck it twice, God did not allow Moses to enter. God did allow Moses, however, to go to the top of Mt. Pisgah and look upon the land. Later, in the New Testament, Moses did enter into the Promised Land, as he and Elijah appeared on the Mount of Transfiguration with the Lord Jesus Christ, Peter, James, and John. Also during this section of Deuteronomy, Joshua is commissioned to succeed Moses as Israel’s leader.
In Deuteronomy 4 Moses reminds Israel of God’s glory and greatness. Deuteronomy 5:24 says, "And ye said, Behold, the LORD our God hath shown us his glory and greatness, and we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: we have seen this day that God doth talk with man, and he liveth." When God had earlier revealed His glory and greatness, the nation of Israel had trembled with great fear. Moses reminds them that the glory and greatness of God is revealed in His commandments. The Word of God is extremely important in the lives of individuals. Moses had admonished Israel in Deuteronomy 4:9, "Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou FORGET the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons." How sadly we forget what God’s Word says. It is so important to have our pure minds stirred to remembrance.
Moses also reminded Israel in Deuteronomy 4:23, "Take heed to yourselves, lest ye FORGET the covenant of the LORD your God, which he made with you, and make you a graven image, or the likeness of any thing, which the LORD thy God hath forbidden thee." Another major problem of Israel, as well as believers today, is that we forget the covenant God has made with us, and we fail to give the Lord preeminence in our lives. God is still a jealous God who will not tolerate other gods placed before Him. If He is not on the throne, He will dethrone!
One of the most comforting verses in Deuteronomy is found in 4:31, "(For the LORD thy God is a merciful god;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, not FORGET the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them." While we may forget; while we may place other things before Him; while we may not always remember what the Lord has done for us; thank God He is "merciful" and not forgetful. He will not forsake us! Every believer can take great comfort in knowing that our salvation is dependant upon His faithfulness, not ours. While we are prone to sin and forget God, He is will never forget nor forsake us as His children.
Moses reminds Israel not to "Forget God’s Word"; not to "Turn to idols"; and not to "Neglect His Law". Of course, we know from studying the Word of God that Israel did forget His Word; they did turn to idols; and they did neglect His Law. The longsuffering and the patience that God has with Israel and all of mankind is simply amazing. How can we comprehend such love and grace? It is impossible for man to fathom the love that God has bestowed upon a Christ-rejecting world who is totally depraved and so undeserving. Yet God has time and time again proven that He would have all men to be saved.
In Deuteronomy 5 and 6 Moses reminds Israel of the importance of the "God’s Law" and "God’s Goodness." In Chapter 5 Moses repeats the Ten Commandments giving both an amplification and application of them. Several times Moses admonishes Israel to "hear, learn, keep, and do the laws". The reason is so that they might enjoy the blessings of the Lord and have victory in their spiritual lives. Four different times in Deuteronomy Moses repeats the phrase, "Hear, O Israel!" (5:1; 6:3-4; 9:1; 20:3). There are three major reasons why God gave the Law to Israel. The first was "to reveal sin" (Romans 3:20). The second was "to prepare the nation for the coming of Christ" (Galatians 3:19-24). Thirdly, the Law was given "to make Israel a separate nation upon the earth" (Deuteronomy 4:5-8). It is important to understand that their responsibility was based upon God’s redemption, for it was God who had delivered them from slavery in Egypt (5:6; 5:15; 6:12; 8:14; 13:5; 13:10). The same principle is true of every born-again believer today. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Paul wrote, "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: THEREFORE glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s." Our responsibility to "hear, learn, keep, and do the law of God" is based upon our redemption from the slavery of sin.
In Chapter 6 Moses reminds Israel of the basic weakness inherent in every man born of woman. The human nature which exists in all of us is not eradicated when we accept the Lord Jesus Christ. Galatians 5:17 clearly states that there is a constant battle that exists between our flesh and the Spirit of God living within us after we are saved. This battle will continue until that future day when we will be changed in the moment, in the twinkling of eye, and this corruption shall put on incorruption, and this mortal shall put on immortality (1 Corinthians 15:51-58). The common weakness of the flesh mentioned by Moses in Deuteronomy 6:10-12 is that there is a tendency to "forget the Lord!" Like Israel, believers today are also prone to think that they have been responsible for whatever spiritual growth they have incurred. There is a corollary verse in the New Testament that we should remember - 1 Corinthians 10:12 - "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall."
The remainder of Deuteronomy 6 deals with the exhortation of Moses to Israel of the importance of obeying God. Obedience is our responsibility as believers. Just as Moses reminded Israel that God is a jealous God, so too we should remember that when we put idols before the Lord, He will get our attention in one way or another. Moses reminded parents to teach their children and remind them as he was reminding them. It has often been said, "America is only one generation from being a heathen nation." How true this is. As a matter of fact, America very well may be nearer than that! If we as Christian parents fail to instruct and remind our children of the goodness and severity of God, they will not obey Him. We are seeing this very tragic result become a reality today in our country that once prided itself as "One nation under God." Let us return to the "Old Paths" Jeremiah spoke of in his day. Let us purpose in our hearts to bow our knees and our hearts before God and pray for one another. Let us remember how gracious and loving God has been to each one of us.
Precepts in the Pentateuch
Review
Lesson #1
-Genesis-
Joseph: A Type of Christ
Lesson #2
-Exodus-
Manna: A Type of Christ
Lesson #3
-Leviticus-
The Seven Feasts: A Type of Christ
Lesson #4
-Numbers-
Balaam: The Son of Beor
Lesson #5
-Deuteronomy-
Moses Looks Back