Numbers 33
BSB1 These are the journeys of the Israelites when they came out of the land of Egypt by their divisions under the leadership of Moses and Aaron. 2 At the LORD’s command, Moses recorded the stages of their journey. These are the stages listed by their starting points: 3 On the fifteenth day of the first month, on the day after the Passover, the Israelites set out from Rameses. They marched out defiantly in full view of all the Egyptians, 4 who were burying all their firstborn, whom the LORD had struck down among them; for the LORD had executed judgment against their gods. 5 The Israelites set out from Rameses and camped at Succoth. 6 They set out from Succoth and camped at Etham, on the edge of the wilderness. 7 They set out from Etham and turned back to Pi-hahiroth, opposite Baal-zephon, and they camped near Migdol. 8 They set out from Pi-hahiroth and crossed through the sea, into the wilderness, and they journeyed three days into the Wilderness of Etham and camped at Marah. 9 They set out from Marah and came to Elim, where there were twelve springs and seventy palm trees, and they camped there. 10 They set out from Elim and camped by the Red Sea. 11 They set out from the Red Sea and camped in the Desert of Sin. 12 They set out from the Desert of Sin and camped at Dophkah. 13 They set out from Dophkah and camped at Alush. 14 They set out from Alush and camped at Rephidim, where there was no water for the people to drink. 15 They set out from Rephidim and camped in the Wilderness of Sinai. 16 They set out from the Wilderness of Sinai and camped at Kibroth-hattaavah. 17 They set out from Kibroth-hattaavah and camped at Hazeroth. 18 They set out from Hazeroth and camped at Rithmah. 19 They set out from Rithmah and camped at Rimmon-perez. 20 They set out from Rimmon-perez and camped at Libnah. 21 They set out from Libnah and camped at Rissah. 22 They set out from Rissah and camped at Kehelathah. 23 They set out from Kehelathah and camped at Mount Shepher. 24 They set out from Mount Shepher and camped at Haradah. 25 They set out from Haradah and camped at Makheloth. 26 They set out from Makheloth and camped at Tahath. 27 They set out from Tahath and camped at Terah. 28 They set out from Terah and camped at Mithkah. 29 They set out from Mithkah and camped at Hashmonah. 30 They set out from Hashmonah and camped at Moseroth. 31 They set out from Moseroth and camped at Bene-jaakan. 32 They set out from Bene-jaakan and camped at Hor-haggidgad. 33 They set out from Hor-haggidgad and camped at Jotbathah. 34 They set out from Jotbathah and camped at Abronah. 35 They set out from Abronah and camped at Ezion-geber. 36 They set out from Ezion-geber and camped at Kadesh in the Wilderness of Zin. 37 They set out from Kadesh and camped at Mount Hor, on the outskirts of the land of Edom. 38 At the LORD’s command, Aaron the priest climbed Mount Hor and died there on the first day of the fifth month, in the fortieth year after the Israelites had come out of the land of Egypt. 39 Aaron was 123 years old when he died on Mount Hor. 40 Now the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev in the land of Canaan, heard that the Israelites were coming. 41 And the Israelites set out from Mount Hor and camped at Zalmonah. 42 They set out from Zalmonah and camped at Punon. 43 They set out from Punon and camped at Oboth. 44 They set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim on the border of Moab. 45 They set out from Iyim and camped at Dibon-gad. 46 They set out from Dibon-gad and camped at Almon-diblathaim. 47 They set out from Almon-diblathaim and camped in the mountains of Abarim facing Nebo. 48 They set out from the mountains of Abarim and camped on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho. 49 And there on the plains of Moab they camped by the Jordan, from Beth-jeshimoth to Abel-shittim. 50 On the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho, the LORD said to Moses, 51 “Speak to the Israelites and tell them: When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan, 52 you must drive out before you all the inhabitants of the land, destroy all their carved images and cast idols, and demolish all their high places. 53 You are to take possession of the land and settle in it, for I have given you the land to possess. 54 And you are to divide the land by lot according to your clans. Give a larger inheritance to a larger clan and a smaller inheritance to a smaller one. Whatever falls to each one by lot will be his. You will receive an inheritance according to the tribes of your fathers. 55 But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land before you, those you allow to remain will become barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides; they will harass you in the land where you settle. 56 And then I will do to you what I had planned to do to them."
Study Notes — Numbers 33
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Numbers 33
- Themes from Numbers 33
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Numbers 33
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Numbers 33 provides a comprehensive account of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the border of Canaan, listing the various stops they made along the way. The chapter begins with the Israelites' departure from Egypt and concludes with their arrival at the border of Canaan, ready to enter the Promised Land. Key verses include Numbers 33:1-2, which describe the Israelites' departure from Egypt, and Numbers 33:50-56, which outline the instructions for conquering and dividing the land. Throughout the chapter, God's guidance and provision are evident, as well as the Israelites' occasional disobedience and rebellion.
Context for the Chapter
Numbers 33 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Numbers, which details the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. The chapter serves as a summary of the Israelites' journey, highlighting key events and themes that are developed throughout the book. In the larger biblical narrative, the chapter is part of the story of God's covenant with His people, demonstrating His faithfulness and love for them.
Heart Application
As Christians, we can apply the themes of this chapter to our own journey of faith, recognizing the importance of following God's guidance and direction. We can also learn from the Israelites' mistakes, acknowledging the need for humility and obedience in our own lives. By reflecting on the Israelites' journey, we can deepen our understanding of God's faithfulness and love for us.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter tells the story of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, highlighting God's guidance and provision. As seen in Numbers 33:1-2, the Israelites followed God's commands and were led to the border of Canaan, ready to enter the Promised Land. The chapter serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of following His guidance.
Voices from the Church
“The journey of the Israelites is a type of the Christian's journey, demonstrating the importance of faith and obedience in our walk with God.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The faithfulness of God is evident throughout the Israelites' journey, highlighting His love and care for His people.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Journey (33:1-2) — The chapter begins with the Israelites' departure from Egypt, highlighting God's guidance and provision.
- The Journey from Egypt to the Wilderness (33:3-15) — The Israelites travel through the wilderness, stopping at various locations and receiving guidance from God.
- The Journey from the Wilderness to the Border of Canaan (33:16-49) — The Israelites continue their journey, facing challenges and receiving instructions from God for conquering and dividing the land.
- Instructions for Conquering and Dividing the Land (33:50-56) — God provides instructions for the Israelites to conquer and divide the land, emphasizing the importance of following His commands.
- Conclusion (33:57-58) — The chapter concludes with the Israelites' arrival at the border of Canaan, ready to enter the Promised Land and fulfill God's covenant promise.
Core Doctrines
- God's Faithfulness
- This chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people, highlighting His guidance and provision throughout their journey.
- Importance of Obedience
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's commands, as seen in the Israelites' obedience and disobedience.
- Covenant Promise
- The chapter is part of the larger narrative of God's covenant with His people, demonstrating His love and care for them.
- Leadership
- The chapter highlights the importance of godly leadership, as seen in the roles of Moses and Aaron.
Lessons from Numbers 33
- Lesson 1: Follow God's Guidance — The chapter teaches us the importance of following God's guidance and direction in our lives, just as the Israelites followed God's commands in their journey.
- Lesson 2: Obey God's Commands — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obeying God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the blessings of obedience.
- Lesson 3: Trust in God's Faithfulness — The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people, teaching us to trust in His love and care for us.
- Lesson 4: Recognize the Importance of Leadership — The chapter highlights the importance of godly leadership, as seen in the roles of Moses and Aaron, teaching us to recognize and follow wise and faithful leaders.
- Lesson 5: Apply the Themes to Our Lives — The chapter provides practical applications for our own lives, teaching us to reflect on the Israelites' journey and apply the themes and lessons to our own walk with God.
Themes from Numbers 33
- Theme 1: Journey and Pilgrimage — The chapter explores the theme of journey and pilgrimage, highlighting the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land and the importance of following God's guidance.
- Theme 2: Obedience and Disobedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the blessings of obedience.
- Theme 3: God's Faithfulness — The chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people, highlighting His love and care for them throughout their journey.
- Theme 4: Leadership — The chapter highlights the importance of godly leadership, as seen in the roles of Moses and Aaron, emphasizing the need for wise and faithful leaders.
- Theme 5: Covenant Promise — The chapter is part of the larger narrative of God's covenant with His people, demonstrating His love and care for them and the fulfillment of His promises.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from the Israelites' journey about following God's guidance and direction?
- How does the chapter emphasize the importance of obedience to God's commands?
- What role do Moses and Aaron play in the chapter, and what can we learn from their leadership?
- How does the chapter demonstrate God's faithfulness to His people?
- What applications can we make to our own lives from the themes and events of this chapter?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Journey (33:1-2)
| 33:1 | The chapter begins with the Israelites' departure from Egypt, highlighting God's guidance and provision. |
| 33:2 | Moses records the journeys of the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of following God's commands. |
2. The Journey from Egypt to the Wilderness (33:3-15)
| 33:3 | The Israelites travel from Rameses to Succoth, beginning their journey through the wilderness. |
| 33:4 | The Egyptians bury their dead, highlighting the consequences of their rebellion against God. |
| 33:5 | The Israelites travel from Etham to Pi-ha-hiroth, facing challenges and receiving guidance from God. |
3. The Journey from the Wilderness to the Border of Canaan (33:16-49)
| 33:16 | The Israelites travel from the wilderness to the border of Canaan, facing challenges and receiving instructions from God. |
| 33:17 | The Israelites stop at various locations, including Hazeroth and Rithmah, highlighting God's guidance and provision. |
| 33:18 | The Israelites travel from Rithmah to Rimmon-parez, facing challenges and receiving instructions from God. |
4. Instructions for Conquering and Dividing the Land (33:50-56)
| 33:50 | God provides instructions for the Israelites to conquer and divide the land, emphasizing the importance of following His commands. |
| 33:51 | The Israelites are instructed to drive out the inhabitants of the land, highlighting the importance of obeying God's commands. |
| 33:52 | The Israelites are instructed to destroy the idols and images of the land, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone. |
5. Conclusion (33:57-58)
| 33:57 | The chapter concludes with the Israelites' arrival at the border of Canaan, ready to enter the Promised Land and fulfill God's covenant promise. |
| 33:58 | The Israelites are instructed to follow God's commands and obey His instructions, highlighting the importance of obedience and faithfulness. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Israelites' journey in Numbers 33?
The Israelites' journey serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and guidance, highlighting the importance of following His commands and trusting in His love and care. As seen in Numbers 33:1-2, the Israelites' journey demonstrates God's provision and guidance throughout their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.
How does the chapter emphasize the importance of obedience to God's commands?
The chapter highlights the consequences of disobedience and the blessings of obedience, emphasizing the importance of following God's commands. As seen in Numbers 33:50-56, the Israelites are instructed to obey God's commands and drive out the inhabitants of the land, highlighting the importance of obedience and faithfulness.
What role do Moses and Aaron play in the chapter?
Moses and Aaron serve as leaders of the Israelites, guiding them throughout their journey and providing instruction and guidance. As seen in Numbers 33:1-2, Moses records the journeys of the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of following God's commands and trusting in His guidance.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Numbers 33:1 → Exodus 12:37 | The Israelites' departure from Egypt is also recorded in Exodus 12:37, highlighting the significance of this event in the biblical narrative. |
| 2 | Numbers 33:2 → Deuteronomy 1:1-3 | Moses' recording of the Israelites' journeys is also mentioned in Deuteronomy 1:1-3, emphasizing the importance of remembering and reflecting on God's guidance and provision. |
| 3 | Numbers 33:50 → Leviticus 18:1-5 | The instructions for conquering and dividing the land are also found in Leviticus 18:1-5, highlighting the importance of following God's commands and obeying His instructions. |
| 4 | Numbers 33:51 → Joshua 1:1-9 | The conquest of the land is also recorded in Joshua 1:1-9, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's guidance and provision. |
| 5 | Numbers 33:52 → Deuteronomy 7:1-6 | The destruction of the idols and images of the land is also mentioned in Deuteronomy 7:1-6, highlighting the importance of worshiping God alone and avoiding idolatry. |
| 6 | Numbers 33:57 → Deuteronomy 34:1-12 | The Israelites' arrival at the border of Canaan is also recorded in Deuteronomy 34:1-12, emphasizing the significance of this event in the biblical narrative. |
| 7 | Numbers 33:58 → Joshua 13:1-7 | The instructions for dividing the land are also found in Joshua 13:1-7, highlighting the importance of following God's commands and obeying His instructions. |
| 8 | Numbers 33:1 → Hebrews 3:1-6 | The Israelites' journey serves as a type of the Christian's journey, highlighting the importance of faith and obedience in our walk with God. |
| 9 | Numbers 33:50 → 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 | The instructions for conquering and dividing the land serve as a reminder of the importance of following God's commands and obeying His instructions, highlighting the consequences of disobedience and the blessings of obedience. |
| 10 | Numbers 33:51 → Revelation 21:1-4 | The conquest of the land serves as a type of the ultimate conquest of sin and death, highlighting the importance of trusting in God's guidance and provision. |
Sermons on Numbers 33
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Diligence in God's Work - More Lessons From Nehemiah by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being able to escape from God, no matter where one may try to hide. The preacher shares a personal experience as a tee |
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Prickly Problems of This Existence by Vance Havner | The sermon transcript discusses the current state of some churches, describing them as "25 miles wide, one-inch deep." The speaker shares personal experiences of preaching at the F |
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Drive It Out - Obedience Brings Life by Shane Idleman | Shane Idleman passionately delivers a message titled 'Drive It Out - Obedience Brings Life,' emphasizing that true obedience to God stems from love and loyalty, not legalism. He hi |
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Satan's Tools by Charles E. Cowman | Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of laying aside every weight and sin that hinders our Christian progress, emphasizing the dangers of despondency and murmuring which |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Numbers 33
In this chapter, we see the faithful God, who had brought His people out of Egypt, guiding and providing for them throughout their journey. The chapter serves as a reminder of the importance of following God's commands and trusting in His love and care. As Matthew Henry notes, the Israelites' journey is a type of the Christian's journey, highlighting the importance of faith and obedience in our walk with God. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of godly leadership, as seen in the roles of Moses and Aaron, and the need for humility and obedience in our own lives. By reflecting on the Israelites' journey, we can deepen our understanding of God's faithfulness and love for us, and apply the themes and lessons to our own walk with God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Pattern of Obedience and Disobedience
Throughout the chapter, the Israelites' obedience and disobedience to God's commands are evident, highlighting the importance of following God's guidance.
God's Faithfulness
Despite the Israelites' rebellion, God remains faithful and provides for them throughout their journey, demonstrating His love and care for His people.
Importance of Leadership
The chapter emphasizes the importance of godly leadership, as seen in the roles of Moses and Aaron, highlighting the need for leaders to follow God's guidance and direction.