Study 23 From The Book of Numbers
is: Numbers 32. Inheritance of the two and a
1.
What was wrong with the request
of Reuben and Gad? What was the result which Moses feared might arise from it,
and on what conditions only could it be granted? Why is this event particularly
significant for Israel as it arrives in the promised land, and begins to form
itself into a tribal confederacy? How will its future life as a ‘nation’ differ
from all that it has been up to now?
2.
What great principle with
regard to sin and its consequences is expressed in verse 23? Can you think of
instances in Scripture which illustrate its working? Cf. Gal. 6:7-8.
Note. Verses 1-5.
The tribes of Reuben and Gad understandably thought that the land of
Jazer and Gilead would suit their large herds of cattle. But, their self-willed choice brought their
descendants into constant trouble in later times. The territory lacked natural frontiers and
was somewhat isolated and exposed to attack.
Often in later centuries the other tribes had to come to their rescue. Cf. 1 Sa. 11; 1 Ki. 22:3.
