Numbers 15:1-41
Q.1. Why were the directions for Israelites to bring offerings to God encouraging at this point in the journey? – (Num.15:1-16)
The Israelites had grumbled against God and rebelled against His appointed leader. In response, God condemned the adults to a life that would end in the wilderness. Nevertheless, He promised a future generation – … When you enter the land where you are to live, which I am giving you (Num.15:2). In spite of their failure, God’s people could still please Him, and – make a soothing aroma to Him (Num.15:3, 7, 10, 13). This reminds us that sinners can have their relationship with our holy God restored. The provision was extended even to foreigners in their midst – there shall be one statute for you and for the alien who sojourns with you, a perpetual statute throughout your generations … (Num.15:15).
Q.2. What provision did God make for the failings of His people? Did this apply to those who acted defiantly against God? – (Num.15:17-31)
They were to offer proportionately to their increase in the Promised Land (Num.15:17-21). God made provision that covered those who sinned unwittingly and unintentionally (Num.15:22-24). The priest was responsible to make a ruling – so all the congregation of the sons of Israel will be forgiven, with the alien who sojourns among them, for it happened to all the people through error (Num.15:25-30). This cover did not extend to those who deliberately acted defiantly against God’s commandments (Num.15:30-31).
Q.3. What happened to the man who disregarded the Sabbath day? How were God’s people reminded to keep the Commandments? – (Num.15:32-41)
The Scriptures record an immediate defiant violation. An Israelite man gathered wood on the Sabbath. He was taken into custody, so Moses could seek the Lord for a ruling (Num.15:32-34). Afterwards, the man was stoned to death at God’s command (Num.15:35-36). God also ordered the Israelites to make tassels for the corners of their garments – 40 so that you may remember to do all My commandments and be holy to your God. 41 I am the Lord your God who brought you out from the land of Egypt to be your God; I am the Lord your God (Num.15:40-41).