Numbers 19 -21 (part 2)

Speak To The Rock
This reading contains an event that marks Moses' life forever.  His actions demonstrate the supreme importance of the symbolism of the Old Testament, the requirement to follow God's orders, and the unrepentability of God's calling.

Chapter 20 starts out with the ominous announcement of Miriam's death.  Remarkably terse, and with no details, this is all that is said.  Surely Moses and Aaron and the people of Israel grieved over the death of Miriam, but nothing is mentioned.

As is typical, the children of Israel complain about the lack of water.  At this point, one has to wonder how much more the Lord has to do to convince the people that they need to depend on Him. The Lord has continuously delivered them from every hardship. He has clearly demonstrated the leadership of Moses and that He is will Moses.  Yet, the slightest sign of trouble evokes fatalistic complaints ("We wish we had died in the LORD's presence with our brothers!" vs. 3), leadership doubts ("Why did you make us leave Egypt and bring us here to this terrible place?" vs.5), and a general non-recognition of God.

Moses and Aaron immediately call on God and He appears as a presences (vs 6).  The distinction of the acts of Moses/Aaron and the people is highlighted by the juxtaposition of these verses.  One has to question, Why did not the people call on God for water?  Why all the complaining and fatalism? Like us, the children of Israel had a lot to learn.

Verse 7 states that the Lord spoke to Moses and in verse 8 very precise instructions are given to Moses that he is to speak to the rock.  This was absolutely critical!!! The rock typified Jesus Christ.  Moses had already struck the rock (Exodus 17:5) symbolic of the crucifixion of Christ. Once Jesus was crucified and had resurrected, the believer only needs to speak to Him for deliverance.  Why did water still come forth even though Moses disobeyed?  Because Moses was ordained a prophet from his birth and gifts and callings are without repentance. The Lord honored this gift in Moses even though it broke His Word and His spiritual symbolism.

Moses' disobedience came with a heavy price.  He was told (vs 12) that "you will not lead them into the land I am giving them!"  Notice that it did not say that Moses would never go to the land, but that he would not lead them. The scriptures cannot be broken.  Moses did indeed go to the promised land hundreds of years later when he appeared on Mt Transfiguration with Jesus and Elijah! (Matthew 17:3).

May God bless you and bless the reading of His Word.