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Commentary on "The 'Madness' of the Prophet"

MARTIN L. CAREY

 

Day 1: Sabbath Afternoon, November 28, 2009

 

In this lesson, the message of Balaam centers on how the sin of greed overcame a prophet of God, and led him to destruction. Balaam was a servant and prophet of Yahweh, but was overcome by avarice. Three passages in the New Testament are cited to show that Balaam is “a prototype, a symbol of sin.” Balaam stands as a warning for Christians who must wrestle with temptation and overcome through the power of God.

 

Observations

Balaam is indeed a very important story in Numbers. When we understand who Balaam was and what he was attempting to do against Israel, we can appreciate how God’s sovereign purposes are shown in this book. We will see in this week’s lesson just what kind of a “prophet” Balaam was, and why the threat he posed to Israel was taken so seriously by God. He intervenes in very startling and direct ways.

Unfortunately, many Christians have made Balaam and his talking donkey into an amusing little story for children, and miss the glorious encouragement that is offered for embattled believers. The spiritual battle in this story encompasses much more than just Balaam’s temptation and sin of greed. Israel’s God is teaching us in Numbers 22 to 24 that through the ages, our real fight is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness in high places. God never fails his covenant people, even when they have sinned and are surrounded by evil forces. He will fight for us even when we deserve curses, not blessings.

 

Summary

  1. The story of Balaam is about spiritual warfare, not just about overcoming sin.
  2. God will not only help us overcome sin, but as the Covenant Keeper will go before His people and fight for them, even while they are yet sinners.

 

GO TO DAY 2

 

Copyright 2009 BibleStudiesForAdventists.com. All rights reserved. Revised November 28, 2009. This website is published by Life Assurance Ministries, Glendale, Arizona, USA, the publisher of Proclamation! Magazine. Contact email: BibleStudiesForAdventists@gmail.com.

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