Alva Review-Courier -

Last week we read the book of Acts about the establishment of Christ’s church, and the spreading of the good news throughout the world. The miraculous works of God were evident in accomplishing His purposes. This week we will read Numbers 1-18. Moses wrote the first five books of the Old Testament. They were actually written as one book of law and history. Book, chapter and verse divisions were added later to make them easier to follow and to study.

The story of the Israelites leaving Egypt began in Exodus. The journey to the promised land took generations and decades because of the rebellious actions of the people. They rebelled against God many times in many ways. They rebelled against Moses as well. Neither Moses nor God ever gave up on the plan to make the people a Holy people and to get them established in the promised land.

Numbers tells of taking a census by tribe of those able to fight. There is more detail about the law and atonement, and about observing Passover and other offerings. The people rebel and complain over and over. God reminds them who He is over and over. We are so fortunate today that Jesus Christ became our sacrifice so we do not have to do any of the many blood sacrifices the Israelites were required to do.

Numbers also tells where the tribe were to camp around the Tabernacle, the order by which they would move out when they moved, and which families of the priests were responsible for moving the different parts of the Tabernacle. Nothing was left to chance. God had a plan for everything needed to get His people to the promised land. He still does.