Numbers 14:11-19 – Moses Intercedes
Two things God justly complains of to Moses:—(1.) Their sin. They reject, reproach, and despise Him, for they will not believe Him. Distrust of God, of His power and promise, is itself a very great sin, and at the bottom of many other sins. (2.) Their continuing in it. The God of heaven keeps an account how long sinners persist in their sin; and the longer they persist the more He is displeased. The fact that they are a special, chosen people who have experienced God’s power and goodness, just makes everything worse. The more God has done for us the greater is the sin if we distrust Him.
Moses makes humble intercession for them. Here he is a type of Christ, who intercedes for His persecutors, and prays for those that despitefully use Him. Moses essentialy prays, “Do not bring upon them the ruin they deserve.” This is Christ’s prayer for those that crucify Him. Moses focuses on the glory of God. God’s honour is nearer to his heart than anything else. If God should destroy them, His power will be questioned; if He continues and completes their salvation, despite the difficulties that arise, not only from the strength of their enemies, but from their own sin, this will greatly magnify His power. Three things God has solemnly declared, which Moses here fastens upon:—[1.] The goodness of God’s nature in general, that He is long-suffering, or slow to anger, and of great mercy; not soon provoked, but tender and compassionate towards offenders. [2.] His readiness in particular to pardon sin. [3.] His unwillingness to go to the extreme, even when He does punish. Moses does not ask that they may not be corrected, but that they may not be disinherited.
Question
- What does God tell Moses He will do?
- How does Moses respond?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks for God’s mercy and patience.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.