Lesson 69: Numbers 23:19
The Blueprint — The Verse
God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Memorization Practice
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King James Version (KJV) — Public Domain.
The Context — The History
Balaam was hired to curse IsraelIsrael is the covenant people chosen by Yahweh, descended from Jacob, set apart to bear God’s name, receive His promises, and reveal His character to the nations. More as they camped on Moab's border during their wilderness journey. Balak king of Moab feared Israel's numbers and sought supernatural advantage through a renowned seer.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
Though Balaam intended to curse IsraelIsrael is the covenant people chosen by Yahweh, descended from Jacob, set apart to bear God’s name, receive His promises, and reveal His character to the nations. More for payment, God put blessings in his mouth. This declaration affirms that God's word to bless his people is reliable unlike human fickleness or political manipulation.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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He took up his parable, and said, “Rise up, Balak, and hear! Listen to me, you son of Zippor.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately before this lesson () to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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Behold, I have received a command to bless. He has blessed, and I can’t reverse it.
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Read the verse immediately after this lesson () to continue the passage.
Discussion
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Why is God's unchanging nature good news for his people?
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What promises of God do you need to hold onto?
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How does human inconsistency contrast with God's faithfulness?
Places — Map this passage
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