REBELLION AND JUDGMENT
Numbers 14:11–24
Fear is a strong, debilitating emotion. It can render its victims paralyzed and unable to rationalize or reason effectively.
Many times, God asks us to do something in faith that may make us a little scared. We may reject what the Lord is trying to do in our lives and instead give in to our fears and relinquish the opportunity for that blessing forever. Sometimes it can be a life-changing forfeiture.
This is what happened in our lesson today when the people of Israel — because of their fear and lack of trust — rejected God and rebelled against Him.
God’s Judgment (11–16)
Numbers 14 continues the dramatic moment when Israel refuses to enter the promised land after hearing the spies’ fearful report. The people rebel, wish to return to Egypt and even talk of choosing a new leader.
God responds by asking a question: “How long will these people despise me?” Other translations use the words “show contempt for me.” The Hebrew word implies rejection. Israel’s lack of faith is not just doubt; it is dishonor to God.
They had seen His mighty power on their behalf, yet they doubted and showed no trust. Despite witnessing miracles (e.g., Red Sea crossing, manna, pillar of cloud and fire), the people still failed to trust His ability to deliver them. As a result, God threatened to destroy them and start over with a new people through Moses.
But Moses intervenes on their behalf and asks God to show forgiveness because of His love and for His namesake.
God’s Glory (17–19)
Moses appeals not on Israel’s merit but on God’s name and character. Moses implores God to do what He had done in the past. This was not the first time the people had rebelled. It echoes Exodus 32 with the incident of the golden calf when God vows to destroy Israel and start over with Moses. But Moses interceded for the people and God showed mercy.
Here in verse 18, Moses quotes from Exodus 34:6–7 when God reveals His nature: “The LORD is slow to anger and abounding in faithful love, forgiving iniquity and rebellion.” But he also affirms God’s justice: “He will not leave the guilty unpunished.”
Moses reasons that although the people may deserve God’s judgment, it may be seen by the nations of the earth that God’s power and love aren’t enough to fulfill His promise to His people.
Future Consequences (20–24)
God listens to Moses and grants mercy, but the consequences still follow. Forgiveness does not necessarily mean erasure of all consequences. Even though David was forgiven for his sin with Bathsheba, we see in 2 Samuel 2:10 that God let the consequences remain in place. The Israelites would soon realize the same fate.
God vows — “as I live” — which is a solemn declaration of irreversible judgment. Despite being forgiven, this generation would not enter the promised land. This is an opportunity lost for all eternity. However, there were two exceptions to God’s judgment. Caleb is singled out for his faith and obedience. He — and later Joshua — would be rewarded for their faithfulness. They would be the only ones who would enter the land and inherit their portion.
By Darrell Nimmo
Retired Baptist pastor living in Goodlettsville, Tennessee
