Disciplers Bible Studies
EGYPT TO CANAAN
LESSON 19
On the Brink of Conquering the
Promised Land - Numbers 31-36
Introduction
Chapters 31 through 36 of Numbers focus primarily
on the land the Israelites were about to occupy. From
an historical point of view, these chapters cover Moses’
last battle, settlement on the east side of the Jordan by
two and a half tribes, a review of the journey from Egypt
to Moab, the division and boundaries of the land, and
the establishment of special cities. From a legal point
of view, they establish the manner in which the Levites
would be supported, instructions on how to possess
the land, regulations concerning capital punishment,
and the inheritance of women.
Outline of Numbers 31-36
I. Vengeance on the Midianites - Numbers 31
II. Inheritance East of the Jordan - Numbers 32
III. Instructions on Occupying Canaan - Numbers 33
IV. Borders of the Promised Land - Numbers 34
V. Provision for the Levites - Numbers 35
VI. Preserving Inheritance - Numbers 36
I. Vengeance on the Midianites - Numbers 31
A. Moses’ Last Battle - Numbers 31:1-7
The LORD spoke to Moses instructing him to take full
vengeance on the Midianites for their hostility, trickery,
and deceit (Numbers 25:16-18). Moses instructed the
people to choose "a thousand warriors from each tribe"
and he sent them to war with Phinehas the son of Eleazar
the priest, with the holy articles and the signal trumpets
in his hand. This would constitute an army of twelve
thousand to execute the LORD’S vengeance.
B. Midianite Defeat - Numbers 31:8-24
The army of Israel killed every male, including the five
kings of Midian and Balaam, the son of Beor. They
captured the Midianite women and children, plundered
the flocks and material goods, and burned their cities.
When the plunder was taken to Moses and Eleazar,
Moses' anger was aroused because the women had
been allowed to live. It had been the Midianite women,
through the council of Balaam, who had infiltrated the
camp and corrupted the Israelites (Numbers 25).
Moses gave instruction to kill every male child and
every woman who had been intimate with a man. Only
the young girls were allowed to live. He also instructed
those who had killed or touched a dead body to remain
outside the camp for a week to purify themselves and
their possessions. In addition, all metal articles were to
be purified with fire and with the "water of purification"
(see also Numbers 19:9, 17). Those things which could
not withstand fire were to be "put through water."
The purity of the people was of utmost importance to
the LORD. He works in this world through people, and
those He chooses as His tools are to be pure. All those
who know Him are chosen to touch the lives of others.
Are you a pure vessel? Do you need to take time to
purify yourself to be more effective for your Lord?
C. Dividing the Spoil - Numbers 31:25-54
The LORD gave instructions for Moses and Eleazar to
inventory the spoils gathered from the battle and divide
them according to His instructions. Half the spoils were
to go to the men who actually fought the battle and the
other half to those who had remained behind.
In order to provide for the Levites who maintained the
tabernacle, a tax was levied on the goods. One from
every five hundred people or animals captured was
taxed from the soldiers, while one from every fifty was
taxed from the rest of the congregation.
The army officers reported to Moses that not one man
had been lost in the battle. In appreciation for the
LORD’s protection a special offering from the soldiers’
personal gain was made. What a miracle! Not a single
man from the twelve thousand had been killed in battle.
What a wonderful outpouring of generosity resulted!
Surely the men recognized that it was God who had
protected them and they wanted to acknowledge His
miracle. Let us, too, reflect on our daily protection and
faithfully express our appreciation to Him.
D. Moral Warfare
Just as the Israelites encountered an enemy who sought
to corrupt them, we are targets of the evil one. He knows
our weak points and, as with the Israelites, our battles
are often in moral warfare. We must recognize we are
always in danger and prepare ourselves for the battle.
(See Ephesians 6:10-20.)
The apostle Paul gives this assurance, No temptation
has overtaken you except such as is common to man;
and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted
beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will
also make the way of escape, that you may be able to
bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13). We must be watchful for
© 2014 by Disciplers Bible Studies, Inc., all rights reserved. Egypt to Canaan Lessons written by Pearl C. Hamilton, 1991
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the dangers of temptation, look for the way of escape,
and be willing to take it. Those who hesitate place
themselves in peril.
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and a half tribes did not fulfill their promise, they would
receive their possession in the land of Canaan rather
than east of the Jordan. The problem was resolved and
unity was preserved.
II. Inheritance East of the Jordan - Numbers 32
A. The Request of Two Tribes - Numbers 32:1-5
Two tribes, Reuben and Gad, along with half the tribe
of Manasseh (32:33), had a very great multitude of
livestock, and decided the land in Jazer and Gilead
was ideal for them. The tribal leaders of Reuben and
Gad approached Moses, Eleazar, and the leaders of
the congregation with a request to settle in the fertile
region on the east side of the Jordan River.
B. Moses’ National Commitment to Unity - Numbers 32:6-15
Moses' concern was that granting their request might
discourage those who needed to continue on and fight
for their inheritance in the land of Canaan. Moses
reminded them of the ten spies at Kadesh-Barnea
who had discouraged the people from entering the
land (Numbers 13:32-33). Their negative influence had
resulted in forty years of wandering in the wilderness
(Numbers 14:30-34).
We must take care that what we say or do, even in
innocence, does not lead to discouragement among
fellow believers. All Christians should be encouragers
(1Thessalonians 5:11)! Will you commit to be an
encourager who edifies others?
C. Moses’ Decision - Numbers 32:16-42
The leaders of Ruben and Gad promised to cross the
Jordan with their brothers and fight until each tribes'
inheritance was secured. Moses agreed. If they fought
to subdue the Promised Land, their obligation would
be fulfilled and they could return to settle with their
families on the east side of the Jordan. Reuben and
Gad received the land that had been taken from Sihon,
king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan. The half
tribe of Manasseh dispossessed the Amorites living in
Gilead and received that land by order of Moses.
III. Instructions on Occupying Canaan Numbers 33
A. Inspiration of Scripture - Numbers 33:1-2
This chapter primarily lists the locations through
which the chosen people of Israel traveled after leaving
Egypt. While other chapters in Numbers list names and
numbers, places are listed here.
Moses was directed by the LORD to record the Israelites’
journey. 1 Timothy 3:16 says, "All Scripture is given by
inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,
for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the
man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for
every good work." God chose certain men like Moses
to record His words for us. He directed the writing and
has protected it for us to this day.
Our responsibility is to read Scripture with a teachable
attitude, accountability, and self-examination. The
purpose is to correct our behavior and develop a life of
righteousness. Is this your approach to Bible study?
B. Stages of the Journey –Numbers 33:3-49
1. Rameses to the Red Sea – 33:3-10
On the day after the Passover, the people had boldly
begun their journey. The miracle which led them
through the Red Sea occurred between their campsites
at Hahiroth and Marah.
2. Red Sea to Sinai - 33:11-15
There was no water at Rephidim, and the people had
complained, accusing Moses of bringing them out
into the wilderness to kill them. Although they had
witnessed numerous miracles, the people could only
see their problem. The LORD miraculously provided
water through Moses striking the rock.
In 32:23, Moses recorded a warning principle worth
noting, "but if you do not do so, then take note, you have
sinned against the LORD; and be sure your sin will find
you out." It is impossible to commit sin without paying
the consequences. Ronald Allen (Expositor’s Bible
Commentary) comments, “The language is striking: it is
not just that their sin will be discovered but that their
sin will be an active agent in discovering them.”
How quickly they forgot the goodness of God! And
how quickly we do the same thing. Each of us needs
to remember the miracles God has performed in our
lives. Instead of living in fear and despair over our
current problems, we should be anticipating His next
miracle. Will you begin to make this attitude a part of
your life? Will you thank God for His miracles instead
of grumbling about your problems?
Upon reaching agreement, Moses gave an explanation
to the other tribes. He included a warning. If the two
At Sinai, the LORD gave Israel the Law that would
govern their lives.
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3. Sinai to Kadesh-Barnea - Numbers
33:16-36
The remainder of the forty year journey took place
during this period.
4. Kadesh-Barnea to the Plains of Moab Numbers 33:37-49
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the wilderness of Zin near Edom with the Dead Sea
as the easternmost extension. From there the border
proceeded south of Kadesh-Barnea westward and
northward passing through Azmon to the Wadi of Egypt
on the Mediterranean. It formed a rough broad angle
with Kadesh above the southernmost point.
C. Western Border - Numbers 34:6
Aaron’s death, at the age of one hundred and twentythree, was recorded at Mount Hor. See also Numbers
20:22-29.
The western border was the Mediterranean Sea.
The battles with the Canaanites and conquering the
lands on the eastern side of the Dead Sea occurred
during their march to the plains of Moab.
The northern border was almost a mirror image of the
southern border, moving northeast to Lebo Hamath
and then dropping sharply to an area north and east
of the Sea of Galilee. The Mount Hor mentioned in 34:7
should not be confused with Mount Hor in the south
where Aaron died (33:38-39). This mountain is in the
region of Lebanon.
5. Instructions for Occupying the Land Numbers 33:50-56
The LORD gave Moses exact instructions for the people
to conquer and possess the land. They were to:
D. Northern Border - Numbers 34:7-9
E. Eastern Border - Numbers 34:10-12
•
Drive out all of the inhabitants.
•
Destroy all symbols of idolatry.
•
Demolish the sites of idolatrous worship.
The eastern border is the most difficult to draw. It was
a large sweeping curve southward to the Sea of Galilee,
encompassing much of modern day Syria. From there
it followed the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River
southward to the Dead Sea.
•
Take possession of the land and live in it.
V. Provision for the Levites - Numbers 35
The land was to be divided among the families according
to need. The larger families were to receive more and
the smaller ones would receive less. Distribution would
be by lot to ensure that the LORD's will was done.
These positive admonitions were followed by a strong
warning. If Israel did not drive out the inhabitants
of the land, those who remained would cause them
perpetual trouble. Here is a lesson for us: it is important
to eliminate the root causes of sin in our lives. If we
do not, sin will grow like weeds in a garden, and be a
source of perpetual trouble in our lives.
IV. Borders of the Promised Land - Numbers 34
A. Instructions to Moses - Numbers 34:1-2
The LORD directed Moses to describe the boundaries of
the land He would deliver to His people, previewing the
magnitude of His great gift before it was received. God
is not stingy. He has promised a bounty of spiritual
blessings in Christ and is ready to pour them out on
those who believe and trust Him. Please read Ephesians
1:1-14 for great encouragement in these blessings.
B. Southern Border - Numbers 34:3-5
The southern border was to extend westward from
A. Cities of the Levites - Numbers 35:1-8
The responsibility of caring for the tabernacle was
entrusted to the tribe of Levi, so the Lord made special
provision for them in the Promised Land. Since God
was their inheritance, they would receive no inheritance
in the land (Numbers 18:20; Deuteronomy 18:1-2).
However, they would need towns to live in and places to
care for their livestock, so the Lord commanded Moses
to give them forty-eight cities and the surrounding
pasture land. God provides for those who serve Him.
Those who are called to serve Him should go forward
with confidence that He will provide.
B. Cities of Refuge - Numbers 35:9-34
1. Places of refuge - Numbers 35:9-15
Six cities among the forty-eight that were given to the
Levites were designated as places of refuge for one
who had unintentionally killed another person. These
cities served to protect an accused person from "the
avenger" until a trial was held. They were strategically
located for easy accessibility. Three were designated
on the eastern side of the Jordan River and three in
the land of Canaan.
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2. Process of refuge - 35:16-32
A clear distinction was made between murder and
accidental homicide (manslaughter). If a person struck
the victim with an iron or wooden object or a stone, he
was a murderer subject to the death penalty. Likewise,
if he pushed someone with hatred, threw something
while lying-in-wait, or hit and killed someone from
hostility he was a murderer.
However, if the death had resulted from an accident or
an impulsive reaction, the accused was not to be charged
with murder and could remain in the city of refuge.
Upon the death of the high priest he would be allowed
to return to his hometown. The punishment was to fit
the crime. If the intent was to murder, then he was to
be punished accordingly. However, if murder was not
his intent, he was to be spared. Thus, judgment was
based not only on actions, but also on intent.
3. Pollution of the land - 35:33-34
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The surprising implication in this passage is the role
these women played in choosing their mates. We tend
to think that marriage partners were chosen for women,
but apparently, because they had an inheritance, they
were active participants in the decision.
We must not overlook the greater issue in the LORD’s
eyes. The most important matter was permanence in
the tribal inheritance. God had portioned out the land,
and the destiny of each family was tied to their land.
The women were not given freedom to choose outside
their clan since this would disrupt the equitable land
division among the tribes.
Summary
The Book of Numbers is much more than a record
of land, commands, regulations, and quantities of
livestock for sacrifices. Consistent with all Scripture, it
gives a glimpse of God’s heart, how He loves His people,
provides for them, and protects them.
There is an underlying theology in these verses that
is significant. The crime of murder not only violates
the sanctity of life, but also pollutes the land/nation
in which it occurs. The Promised Land was a sacred
land where the LORD Himself dwelt. It was not to be
defiled by murder.
God’s attention to every person and detail was seen in
the two censuses, the arrangement and assignments
of each tribe in the camp, the role of the Levites, the
detailed outline for the feasts, the land boundaries for
the tribes, the cities of refuge, and the response to the
request from Zelophehad’s daughters.
Today, many focus on ecology while overlooking the
sanctity of human life. God's Law focuses on the
sanctity of life.
VI. Preserving Inheritance - Numbers 36
God’s grace was evident in every response to His
stubborn, complaining people. He never failed to provide
spiritual direction, food, water, or victory over enemies.
His fairness was demonstrated in the land distribution to
the tribes, provisions for the Levites, and administering
punishment to all who disobeyed, even when it was
His own “friend”, Moses (Exodus 33:11).
This chapter addresses the potential problem of a tribe
losing part of its inheritance if a woman inherited land
and then married outside her father's tribe.
A. The Problem - Numbers 36:1-4
The issue brought to Moses by the Gileadites, of the
tribe of Manasseh, was a concern for the stability of
their tribal inheritance. The daughters of Zelophehad
had inherited the land of their father because he had
no sons (Numbers 27:1-22). In the year of Jubilee
(Leviticus 25), when all inheritance was returned, two
tribes would be able to claim rights to the land if tribal
intermarriage had occurred.
B. The Solution - Numbers 36:5-13
The LORD instructed Moses to allow the women to marry
whomever they wished, but only within their father’s
tribe. The inheritance they received would therefore
remain as God had distributed it. The daughters of
Zelophehad complied with the ruling and married
within their tribe.
Applications
1. How effective is your life in service for God? Do you
strive to maintain purity in your thoughts and actions
so He can freely use you? Do you faithfully study God's
Word with a teachable attitude, accountability, and
self-examination?
2. Do you reflect on your daily protection and faithfully
express your gratitude to God? What will you thank
Him for right now?
3.To whom do you go to find refuge and justice? Do
you look to God in every situation of life to discern
the right thing to do? Are you obedient to all that you
know of God's Word?
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Egypt to Canaan Lesson 19
QUESTIONS
Questions are based on the New King James Version of the Bible.
DAY ONE: Read all notes and references.
1. How would you answer someone who asked what the Book of Numbers is about?
2. What do you remember or appreciate learning from Numbers about:
The Lord?
Moses?
The people of Israel?
The Bible?
DAY TWO: Read Deuteronomy 1:1-7.
3. a. From Deuteronomy 5:1-2 and 29:1, how could you surmise that Deuteronomy means “the second giving of the Law”?
b. (Thought Question) Why do you think Moses gave the Law a second time? Give as many reasons as you can.
c. When was the Law first given? Use the references in your Bible.
4. a. How long was it between the first and second giving of the Law? Give verse.
b. Using Deuteronomy 1:1-3; 2:1-3, 14, how much attention is given to those years?
c. How fruitful, useful, or important were those years?
d. How does the promise in Joel 2:25 apply to wasted years?
5. Name the two kings whose defeat opened the way into the Promised Land.
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Egypt to Canaan Lesson 19
6. What command did the LORD give to the Israelites in Deuteronomy 1:6-7?
DAY THREE: Read Deuteronomy 1:8-46.
7. To whom had God promised the land of Canaan?
8. Give two good principles of leadership from Deuteronomy 1:12 and 18.
9. a. What crisis had developed at Kadesh-Barnea that destroyed a generation of people?
b. List as many consequences from that crisis as you can find in Deuteronomy 1.
c. Which verses have the words "fear not," "discouraged," "rebelled," "complained," "murmured," "possess?"
DAY FOUR: Read Deuteronomy 2.
10. a. What two nations were the Israelites not to disturb? Why?
b. How can this example be used concerning our "territory"; for instance, our jobs or the
responsibilities God gives us?
11. a. What phrase describes the loving-kindness of the Lord during Israel's wilderness years?
b. What evidences from Deuteronomy 2:20-37 show that God's purpose for Israel had not changed?
12. Which two rivers did the Israelites cross in Deuteronomy 2?
DAY FIVE: Read Deuteronomy 3.
13. a. From Deuteronomy 3:1-11, list phrases, with verses, describing the power and strength of Og.
b. List phrases, with verses, describing the Lord's power and encouragement.
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Egypt to Canaan Lesson 19
c. Whose power was greater, Og’s or the LORD’s?
14. Which two and one-half tribes were allowed to settle east of the Jordan?
15. a. Give some points of Moses' praise to God.
b. For what did Moses pray?
c. How did God encourage Moses without wavering on His decision?
DAY SIX: Read Deuteronomy 4.
16. a. Which verses in Deuteronomy 4:1-14 speak of Moses teaching the people God's words?
b. What were the people forbidden to do?
c. What similar commands do you find in Revelation 22:18-19?
17. a. What is the reward for staying true to the LORD?
b. What would corrupt the people?
18. From Deuteronomy 4:25-31 list some:
Warnings
Prophesies
Promises
19. a. Why did God choose Israel? Give Verses.
b. Why did He bring them out of Egypt?
c. s(Thought Question) Why do you think God saves people today?