- Balak, king of Moab, hired Balaam to curse the Israelites as they were becoming a threat
- Balaam initially refused saying he could only speak what God put in his mouth
- Balaam was eventually allowed to go but was rebuked by God, speaking only blessings over Israel
- Despite multiple attempts, Balaam refused to curse Israel as God had blessed them for their obedience
- However, Israel later sinned through intermarriage with Moabite women, opening the door for God's judgment
Balaam was a Gentile prophet mentioned frequently in the Bible who was hired by Balak, king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. Though God told Balaam not to curse Israel, he went with Balak's men anyway. On the journey, Balaam's donkey saw an angel blocking the path and refused to continue, leading to a confrontation where Balaam was reproved. Ultimately, Balaam blessed Israel instead of cursing them as Balak desired, but later advised Balak to entice Israel to sin through idolatry and sexual immorality. The Bible warns that some in the early church followed the doctrines of Balaam by promoting such sins.
God spoke to Balaam through his donkey when Balaam was traveling to curse the Israelites at Balak's request. When the donkey saw the angel of the Lord and refused to continue, it spoke to Balaam after God opened its mouth. God then opened Balaam's eyes to see the angel as well. Though initially intending to curse Israel for money, Balaam delivered prophecies blessing Israel when God spoke through him. The document provides historical context on the book of Numbers and background on key figures like Balaam. It analyzes and draws lessons from the biblical account, including how God protected Israel and can use anyone to speak truth.
This document discusses several key points from the book of Amos:
- God punishes Israel for their iniquities despite knowing them alone of all peoples.
- Prophets speak with authority directly from God but may err, unlike Old Testament prophets whose words became Scripture.
- God used plagues, famine, drought and other means to urge Israel to repent from oppressing the poor and idolatry.
- People today often seek things other than God. The Day of the Lord will be darkness for those unprepared.
- Pagan worship with idols, songs and instruments provoked God rather than honoring Him. True faith is shown through works.
1) Balaam, a diviner, was called by King Balak of Moab to curse the Israelites but was prevented by God from doing so.
2) When Balaam's donkey saw an angel of the Lord and refused to proceed, Balaam struck the donkey until it spoke, revealing the angel.
3) God then opened Balaam's eyes and reprimanded him for his actions, instructing him to only speak what God commanded.
This document discusses several key points from the book of Amos:
- God punished Israel alone though knowing all nations, because of their sins and idolatry.
- Prophets spoke with authority directly from God and without error. Their words became Scripture.
- Assyria was used as an adversary to bring judgment on Israel's defenses for their sins.
- God showed his displeasure through famines, droughts, plagues to call Israel to repentance.
- The day of the Lord will be darkness for those not seeking him, but salvation for those who do.
Trance states described in the Bible.
The document discusses several examples of trance states experienced by biblical figures, including Abram's visions, Balaam the diviner's prophecies, King Saul's experience among prophets, Peter's vision telling him to "Rise, kill and eat," and Paul's vision while praying in the temple. It provides background on these figures and biblical passages describing their trances, which involved revelations, visions, or being "out of themselves" in an absorbed state to receive divine messages.
1) The document discusses interpretations of imagery in the book of Revelation, particularly regarding God's judgment and warfare.
2) It argues that in Revelation, God/Jesus fights as a lion but acts like a lamb, through willingness to suffer rather than inflict violence.
3) God's people are called to follow this example, fighting through nonviolent witness rather than by killing enemies. Judgment involves enemies spiritually consuming their own sin rather than being actively destroyed.
The document describes three responses that the Israelites had to their dilemma of being trapped between the Egyptian army and the Red Sea:
1. Accusation - The Israelites accused Moses of taking them from Egypt to die in the wilderness instead of remaining slaves.
2. Acquiescence - Moses told the Israelites to stand still and see God deliver them, but some may have gone through the motions without true faith.
3. Action - God commanded Moses to lift his rod and divide the sea so the Israelites could pass through on dry land to safety, demonstrating the response of obedient action.
Balaam was a Gentile prophet mentioned frequently in the Bible who was hired by Balak, king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. Though God told Balaam not to curse Israel, he went with Balak's men anyway. On the journey, Balaam's donkey saw an angel blocking the path and refused to continue, leading to a confrontation where Balaam was reproved. Ultimately, Balaam blessed Israel instead of cursing them as Balak desired, but later advised Balak to entice Israel to sin through idolatry and sexual immorality. The Bible warns that some in the early church followed the doctrines of Balaam by promoting such sins.
God spoke to Balaam through his donkey when Balaam was traveling to curse the Israelites at Balak's request. When the donkey saw the angel of the Lord and refused to continue, it spoke to Balaam after God opened its mouth. God then opened Balaam's eyes to see the angel as well. Though initially intending to curse Israel for money, Balaam delivered prophecies blessing Israel when God spoke through him. The document provides historical context on the book of Numbers and background on key figures like Balaam. It analyzes and draws lessons from the biblical account, including how God protected Israel and can use anyone to speak truth.
This document discusses several key points from the book of Amos:
- God punishes Israel for their iniquities despite knowing them alone of all peoples.
- Prophets speak with authority directly from God but may err, unlike Old Testament prophets whose words became Scripture.
- God used plagues, famine, drought and other means to urge Israel to repent from oppressing the poor and idolatry.
- People today often seek things other than God. The Day of the Lord will be darkness for those unprepared.
- Pagan worship with idols, songs and instruments provoked God rather than honoring Him. True faith is shown through works.
1) Balaam, a diviner, was called by King Balak of Moab to curse the Israelites but was prevented by God from doing so.
2) When Balaam's donkey saw an angel of the Lord and refused to proceed, Balaam struck the donkey until it spoke, revealing the angel.
3) God then opened Balaam's eyes and reprimanded him for his actions, instructing him to only speak what God commanded.
This document discusses several key points from the book of Amos:
- God punished Israel alone though knowing all nations, because of their sins and idolatry.
- Prophets spoke with authority directly from God and without error. Their words became Scripture.
- Assyria was used as an adversary to bring judgment on Israel's defenses for their sins.
- God showed his displeasure through famines, droughts, plagues to call Israel to repentance.
- The day of the Lord will be darkness for those not seeking him, but salvation for those who do.
Trance states described in the Bible.
The document discusses several examples of trance states experienced by biblical figures, including Abram's visions, Balaam the diviner's prophecies, King Saul's experience among prophets, Peter's vision telling him to "Rise, kill and eat," and Paul's vision while praying in the temple. It provides background on these figures and biblical passages describing their trances, which involved revelations, visions, or being "out of themselves" in an absorbed state to receive divine messages.
1) The document discusses interpretations of imagery in the book of Revelation, particularly regarding God's judgment and warfare.
2) It argues that in Revelation, God/Jesus fights as a lion but acts like a lamb, through willingness to suffer rather than inflict violence.
3) God's people are called to follow this example, fighting through nonviolent witness rather than by killing enemies. Judgment involves enemies spiritually consuming their own sin rather than being actively destroyed.
The document describes three responses that the Israelites had to their dilemma of being trapped between the Egyptian army and the Red Sea:
1. Accusation - The Israelites accused Moses of taking them from Egypt to die in the wilderness instead of remaining slaves.
2. Acquiescence - Moses told the Israelites to stand still and see God deliver them, but some may have gone through the motions without true faith.
3. Action - God commanded Moses to lift his rod and divide the sea so the Israelites could pass through on dry land to safety, demonstrating the response of obedient action.
Changing the label on sin does not change the result of the sin. A rose by any other name would smell just as sweet. A skunk by any other name would stink just as bad.
This document provides an overview of chapters 22-24 and 26-27 of the book of Numbers. It summarizes that Balaam, a prophet, was called by Balak king of Moab to curse the Israelites but instead blessed them three times because God would not allow him to curse His people. It also describes a census of the new generation of Israelites and that the inheritance divisions would change based on family sizes. Joshua was chosen as the new leader to succeed Moses.
Balaam was a prophet of God who had turned away from God to pursue wealth. Balak, the king of Moab, summoned Balaam to curse the Israelites. God refused Balaam's first attempt to go, but then allowed him to go with a warning. On the journey, Balaam's donkey spoke to him to prevent him from harming the angel blocking their path. God then opened Balaam's eyes and he saw the angel. When Balaam tried to curse the Israelites at Balak's request, God forced him to bless them instead. Despite losing his reward, Balaam prophesied future blessings for Israel and judgments for their enemies.
The document discusses the biblical prohibition against making idols and images of God found in Exodus 20:4-6. It provides context from Exodus 32 where the Israelites made a golden calf idol while Moses was receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. The document notes that God is spirit and cannot be represented by physical images. It warns that one's image of God determines how they worship and live, and encourages having an image of God shaped by scripture rather than fashioning God into a physical idol.
I. Deborah was a prophetess and judge of Israel who directed Barak to gather an army and face Sisera's forces. Though Barak hesitated without Deborah, she accompanied him and foresaw Israel's victory.
II. During battle, Sisera fled on foot and took shelter in Jael's tent, only to be killed by her when he fell asleep.
III. The real heroes were the Israelites who cried out to God for 20 years under Sisera's oppression, and through their prayers, God delivered them victory.
This document provides a summary and questions about chapters 22-24 of the book of Numbers in the Bible. It discusses Balak hiring the prophet Balaam to curse Israel, God preventing Balaam from cursing Israel and instead blessing them, and Balaam's donkey speaking to warn him of an angel in their path. Balaam ultimately blesses Israel three times instead of cursing them as Balak wanted. The document asks several questions about the events and lessons that can be learned.
The document discusses the book with seven seals from the book of Revelation. It contains prophecies about world history and God's plans for redemption. When no one was found worthy to open it, Christ prevailed as the Lion of Judah and opened the seals, revealing truth that had been hidden by traditions and misinterpretations of scripture. His teachings countered error and brought light to humanity. The seven seals contain symbolic revelations about the major events in the unfolding of God's plans and the history of the world from the time of Christ to the end.
1. A young prophet from Judah prophesied against Jeroboam's idolatrous altar and false worship, saying Josiah would destroy it.
2. The old prophet at Bethel convinced the young prophet to return home with him, but it was a trap. God had told the young prophet not to eat or drink there.
3. After eating at the old prophet's house, the young prophet was killed by a lion on his way home as God had said would happen for disobeying. The old prophet acknowledged it was God's punishment for disobedience.
The document discusses spiritual leprosy and cleansing from sin. It tells the story of Naaman, a commander afflicted with leprosy, who was healed after bathing in the Jordan River at the command of the prophet Elisha. Naaman was initially reluctant but obeyed after being persuaded by his servants. The document emphasizes the importance of obedience over sacrifice and rituals, and calls believers to repent and be baptized in Jesus' name for forgiveness of sins.
God challenges the nations to argue their case for their idols, while affirming that He will raise up Cyrus from the east to deliver Israel from captivity in Babylon. God reassures Israel that as their creator and the one true God, He will strengthen, uphold, and help them against their enemies. While the immediate context refers to Cyrus and the Persian empire, the prophecy ultimately points to a future, complete deliverance of Israel at the coming of the Messiah.
This document discusses the important role of Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, as described in the Book of Judges. It summarizes how Deborah led the army of Israel against their Canaanite oppressors led by Sisera, defeating them with God's help. It also describes how Sisera was later killed by Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, who drove a tent peg into his head while he slept, completing the victory over the Canaanites.
This document provides commentary on Hosea 14 from four scholars - Barnes, Clarke, Gill, and Henry. The commentaries discuss the key themes and messages in Hosea 14, including:
1. God calls Israel to sincere repentance and a total return to Him through abandoning idols and sin.
2. Israel is instructed on how to repent - by bringing words of prayer and supplication from the heart, and by inwardly turning to God in their hearts and outwardly reforming their lives.
3. God puts words in Israel's mouth to help their repentance, including petitions to have iniquity removed and be graciously received, and promises to render praise and thanks to God
The document provides an account of Ezekiel's visions from God. Some key details:
- Ezekiel sees a vision by the Kebar River of Babylon where he is exiled with other Judeans. In the vision he sees fantastic beings and wheels within wheels, surrounded by God's glory.
- God commissions Ezekiel as a prophet to the rebellious nation of Israel, telling him to deliver warnings and prophecies of coming judgment, though the people may not listen.
- Ezekiel acts out sieges on a model of Jerusalem to symbolize its coming destruction. He lies on his side for months representing the years of Israel's and Judah's sins.
- Further visions involve shaving his head and beard and
- God was angry with the Israelites because there was sin in their camp, which was causing them to lose battles against their enemies.
- Joshua did not know about the sin because he had failed to pray to God beforehand. If he had prayed, God would have revealed the sin to him.
- The sin was discovered to be committed by Achan, who had taken forbidden spoils of war for himself after a previous battle. Achan was put to death along with his family for bringing defeat upon the Israelites through his disobedience.
Ecclesiastes 9:13-15 God remembered: Noah, Abraham, His promise, His mercy, His covenant, Hannah, Rachel, that we are but dust, our alms, our iniquity, but He does not remember the sins of the righteous. What will God remember about you?
This is the first sermon in the series: Second String Saints: Major League Instruction from Minor League Players in the Bible. Today we will look at Barak, a great Israeli general who had a weak start but finished strong. We will also see how God fights on behalf of His people.
Pure Heart Music will be leading worship at Rossville Church on Sunday, February 12 at 6pm. The document also provides details about Saul being anointed as the first king of Israel by Samuel and the events that followed. It summarizes key passages from 1 Samuel chapters 9-10 describing Saul hiding among luggage when being chosen by God and the people as king against Samuel's warnings.
The document discusses false prophets in the Bible. It states that false prophets pretended to be sent by God but were not actually commissioned or sent by him. They prophesied lies, divination, and things contrary to God's word. As a result, they misled God's people and caused them to stray from following him. The Bible warns people not to listen to false prophets and describes ways they were crafty, immoral, or influenced by evil spirits in their teachings.
The document summarizes the story of Judges 3-5, which describes how the Israelites were oppressed by King Jabin and his army commander Sisera for 20 years. God raised up judges like Deborah, Barak, and Jael to deliver the Israelites. Deborah told Barak that God would help him defeat Sisera at Mount Tabor. During the battle, heavy rains came and routed Sisera's army. Sisera fled on foot and was later killed by Jael, who drove a nail through his head while he slept. The document provides context and background on the key figures and events in the story.
Joshua gathered the tribes of Israel and recounted God's faithfulness in delivering them from slavery in Egypt and guiding them to the promised land despite opposition from Balak, king of Moab, who tried to curse them by hiring Balaam. God instead put blessings on the Israelites through Balaam. However, the Israelites later brought God's anger on themselves by worshipping Baal and joining in sacrifices to Moabite gods, leading to a plague that killed 24,000 until Phinehas intervened.
Numbers 22-25 CBT week 10 Clash of Kingdoms God protects us from evil while h...Lazarou Richard
The document summarizes passages from Numbers 22-25 regarding Balak summoning Balaam to curse the Israelites, but God preventing Balaam from doing so and instead blessing them. It then describes the Israelites engaging in sexual immorality with Moabite women and worshipping the Moabite god Baal, angering God. 24,000 Israelites died from a plague before Phinehas stopped it by killing an Israelite man and the Midianite woman he brought home. The objective is for students to understand that while God guides and protects those he calls, sin leads to consequences by straying from building his kingdom.
Changing the label on sin does not change the result of the sin. A rose by any other name would smell just as sweet. A skunk by any other name would stink just as bad.
This document provides an overview of chapters 22-24 and 26-27 of the book of Numbers. It summarizes that Balaam, a prophet, was called by Balak king of Moab to curse the Israelites but instead blessed them three times because God would not allow him to curse His people. It also describes a census of the new generation of Israelites and that the inheritance divisions would change based on family sizes. Joshua was chosen as the new leader to succeed Moses.
Balaam was a prophet of God who had turned away from God to pursue wealth. Balak, the king of Moab, summoned Balaam to curse the Israelites. God refused Balaam's first attempt to go, but then allowed him to go with a warning. On the journey, Balaam's donkey spoke to him to prevent him from harming the angel blocking their path. God then opened Balaam's eyes and he saw the angel. When Balaam tried to curse the Israelites at Balak's request, God forced him to bless them instead. Despite losing his reward, Balaam prophesied future blessings for Israel and judgments for their enemies.
The document discusses the biblical prohibition against making idols and images of God found in Exodus 20:4-6. It provides context from Exodus 32 where the Israelites made a golden calf idol while Moses was receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. The document notes that God is spirit and cannot be represented by physical images. It warns that one's image of God determines how they worship and live, and encourages having an image of God shaped by scripture rather than fashioning God into a physical idol.
I. Deborah was a prophetess and judge of Israel who directed Barak to gather an army and face Sisera's forces. Though Barak hesitated without Deborah, she accompanied him and foresaw Israel's victory.
II. During battle, Sisera fled on foot and took shelter in Jael's tent, only to be killed by her when he fell asleep.
III. The real heroes were the Israelites who cried out to God for 20 years under Sisera's oppression, and through their prayers, God delivered them victory.
This document provides a summary and questions about chapters 22-24 of the book of Numbers in the Bible. It discusses Balak hiring the prophet Balaam to curse Israel, God preventing Balaam from cursing Israel and instead blessing them, and Balaam's donkey speaking to warn him of an angel in their path. Balaam ultimately blesses Israel three times instead of cursing them as Balak wanted. The document asks several questions about the events and lessons that can be learned.
The document discusses the book with seven seals from the book of Revelation. It contains prophecies about world history and God's plans for redemption. When no one was found worthy to open it, Christ prevailed as the Lion of Judah and opened the seals, revealing truth that had been hidden by traditions and misinterpretations of scripture. His teachings countered error and brought light to humanity. The seven seals contain symbolic revelations about the major events in the unfolding of God's plans and the history of the world from the time of Christ to the end.
1. A young prophet from Judah prophesied against Jeroboam's idolatrous altar and false worship, saying Josiah would destroy it.
2. The old prophet at Bethel convinced the young prophet to return home with him, but it was a trap. God had told the young prophet not to eat or drink there.
3. After eating at the old prophet's house, the young prophet was killed by a lion on his way home as God had said would happen for disobeying. The old prophet acknowledged it was God's punishment for disobedience.
The document discusses spiritual leprosy and cleansing from sin. It tells the story of Naaman, a commander afflicted with leprosy, who was healed after bathing in the Jordan River at the command of the prophet Elisha. Naaman was initially reluctant but obeyed after being persuaded by his servants. The document emphasizes the importance of obedience over sacrifice and rituals, and calls believers to repent and be baptized in Jesus' name for forgiveness of sins.
God challenges the nations to argue their case for their idols, while affirming that He will raise up Cyrus from the east to deliver Israel from captivity in Babylon. God reassures Israel that as their creator and the one true God, He will strengthen, uphold, and help them against their enemies. While the immediate context refers to Cyrus and the Persian empire, the prophecy ultimately points to a future, complete deliverance of Israel at the coming of the Messiah.
This document discusses the important role of Deborah, a prophetess and judge of Israel, as described in the Book of Judges. It summarizes how Deborah led the army of Israel against their Canaanite oppressors led by Sisera, defeating them with God's help. It also describes how Sisera was later killed by Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, who drove a tent peg into his head while he slept, completing the victory over the Canaanites.
This document provides commentary on Hosea 14 from four scholars - Barnes, Clarke, Gill, and Henry. The commentaries discuss the key themes and messages in Hosea 14, including:
1. God calls Israel to sincere repentance and a total return to Him through abandoning idols and sin.
2. Israel is instructed on how to repent - by bringing words of prayer and supplication from the heart, and by inwardly turning to God in their hearts and outwardly reforming their lives.
3. God puts words in Israel's mouth to help their repentance, including petitions to have iniquity removed and be graciously received, and promises to render praise and thanks to God
The document provides an account of Ezekiel's visions from God. Some key details:
- Ezekiel sees a vision by the Kebar River of Babylon where he is exiled with other Judeans. In the vision he sees fantastic beings and wheels within wheels, surrounded by God's glory.
- God commissions Ezekiel as a prophet to the rebellious nation of Israel, telling him to deliver warnings and prophecies of coming judgment, though the people may not listen.
- Ezekiel acts out sieges on a model of Jerusalem to symbolize its coming destruction. He lies on his side for months representing the years of Israel's and Judah's sins.
- Further visions involve shaving his head and beard and
- God was angry with the Israelites because there was sin in their camp, which was causing them to lose battles against their enemies.
- Joshua did not know about the sin because he had failed to pray to God beforehand. If he had prayed, God would have revealed the sin to him.
- The sin was discovered to be committed by Achan, who had taken forbidden spoils of war for himself after a previous battle. Achan was put to death along with his family for bringing defeat upon the Israelites through his disobedience.
Ecclesiastes 9:13-15 God remembered: Noah, Abraham, His promise, His mercy, His covenant, Hannah, Rachel, that we are but dust, our alms, our iniquity, but He does not remember the sins of the righteous. What will God remember about you?
This is the first sermon in the series: Second String Saints: Major League Instruction from Minor League Players in the Bible. Today we will look at Barak, a great Israeli general who had a weak start but finished strong. We will also see how God fights on behalf of His people.
Pure Heart Music will be leading worship at Rossville Church on Sunday, February 12 at 6pm. The document also provides details about Saul being anointed as the first king of Israel by Samuel and the events that followed. It summarizes key passages from 1 Samuel chapters 9-10 describing Saul hiding among luggage when being chosen by God and the people as king against Samuel's warnings.
The document discusses false prophets in the Bible. It states that false prophets pretended to be sent by God but were not actually commissioned or sent by him. They prophesied lies, divination, and things contrary to God's word. As a result, they misled God's people and caused them to stray from following him. The Bible warns people not to listen to false prophets and describes ways they were crafty, immoral, or influenced by evil spirits in their teachings.
The document summarizes the story of Judges 3-5, which describes how the Israelites were oppressed by King Jabin and his army commander Sisera for 20 years. God raised up judges like Deborah, Barak, and Jael to deliver the Israelites. Deborah told Barak that God would help him defeat Sisera at Mount Tabor. During the battle, heavy rains came and routed Sisera's army. Sisera fled on foot and was later killed by Jael, who drove a nail through his head while he slept. The document provides context and background on the key figures and events in the story.
Joshua gathered the tribes of Israel and recounted God's faithfulness in delivering them from slavery in Egypt and guiding them to the promised land despite opposition from Balak, king of Moab, who tried to curse them by hiring Balaam. God instead put blessings on the Israelites through Balaam. However, the Israelites later brought God's anger on themselves by worshipping Baal and joining in sacrifices to Moabite gods, leading to a plague that killed 24,000 until Phinehas intervened.
Numbers 22-25 CBT week 10 Clash of Kingdoms God protects us from evil while h...Lazarou Richard
The document summarizes passages from Numbers 22-25 regarding Balak summoning Balaam to curse the Israelites, but God preventing Balaam from doing so and instead blessing them. It then describes the Israelites engaging in sexual immorality with Moabite women and worshipping the Moabite god Baal, angering God. 24,000 Israelites died from a plague before Phinehas stopped it by killing an Israelite man and the Midianite woman he brought home. The objective is for students to understand that while God guides and protects those he calls, sin leads to consequences by straying from building his kingdom.
God remembered Abraham's intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah and saved Lot from destruction. The document discusses how God remembers and blesses intercessors like Abraham who stand before God on behalf of others. It encourages intercession, stating that praying for people leads to a quiet life and is pleasing to God, and that God remembers intercessors to save others and bless the intercessors themselves.
This document discusses the biblical story of Balaam and compares it to modern situations where people seek to justify beliefs or actions that contradict God's word. It summarizes the story of how the king Balak tried to get Balaam to curse the Israelites, though God had told Balaam not to. Eventually, Balaam agreed to go only if God approved any further messages. The document warns that some today make similar requests of religious leaders, hoping to be blessed for actions outside of God's will.
This document contains a summary of 1 Kings 22, which describes a battle between Ahab king of Israel and the king of Syria. Ahab consults with 400 prophets, who all prophesy victory. However, the prophet Micaiah prophesies that Ahab will be killed. Ahab goes into battle anyway after disguising himself. He is fatally wounded by a stray arrow, and his armies are defeated, fulfilling Micaiah's prophecy. The document emphasizes that God is in control of all things, including kings, battles, prophecies and stray arrows, and that people should put their trust in Him.
This document contains several passages from the Bible discussing the power and importance of God's word. It describes God's word as being like rain that waters the earth and allows it to bear fruit. God's word is also compared to a fire and hammer that breaks rocks. The passages encourage having faith in God and not doubting. They tell the story of a king who became ill and sent messengers to inquire of a false god, but was told by Elijah that there is a God in Israel and he would not recover from his illness.
- The document discusses the genealogy of Esau and Jacob, with a prophecy that two nations would struggle against each other. Esau's descendant Amalek fought against Israel and was destined for destruction by God.
- King Saul disobeyed God's command to utterly destroy the Amalekites, sparing their king Agag. This act of disobedience cost Saul his kingdom.
- Centuries later, Haman, who was descended from Agag, sought to destroy all Jews in retaliation for Mordecai's refusal to bow down to him. Jesus Christ ultimately fulfilled what Saul did not by destroying spiritual forces like Amalek.
1. Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, was afflicted with leprosy. A young Israelite servant girl suggested he visit the prophet Elisha in Israel to be healed.
2. Elisha instructed Naaman to wash seven times in the Jordan River. Angry at first, Naaman followed the instruction and was healed of his leprosy.
3. Naaman wanted to repay Elisha, but Elisha refused payment. Later, Elisha's servant Gehazi lied to receive gifts from Naaman and was then afflicted with leprosy as punishment.
The Identity of a True Prophet
I. Prophecies During Times of Apostasy
A. False Accusation
B. Accurate Forecast
C. Aggressive Cancer
II. Is Outnumbered by False Prophets
III. Is Known for Being a Man of God
IV. Is Hated for His Style of Preaching
V. Will Face the Temptation to Compromise
VI. Is Faithful with God’s Words
VII. Will Expose Pretenders
The Book of Kings is a book in the Hebrew Bible, found as two books in the Old Testament of the Christian Bible. It concludes the Deuteronomistic history, a history of ancient Israel also including the books of Joshua, Judges, and Samuel.
Return- the missing equation in the formula of life.Bible Preaching
Return- the missing equation in the formula of life.
I. Instruction
A. Elijah’s Instruction- “Endure” 1Kgs 21:20-21
B. Ahab’s Instruction- Because. 1Kgs 21:20
C. Anger Achieved. 1Kgs 21:22
D. Indentured Slave. 1Kgs 21:25
E. Inadequate Recompense. 1Kgs 21:27-29
II. Illustration
A. Plots and Plans. 1Kgs 22:3-4
B. Convenient Christianity. 1Kgs 22:5
C. Comfortable Christianity. 1Kgs 22:6
D. The Show Must Go On. 1Kgs 22:10
III. Invitation
A. Lack of Response Increases the Responsibility. 1Kgs 22:17
B. The Invitation for Ahab Expired. 1Kgs 22:30
The document contains passages from the Bible discussing righteousness, belief in God, salvation, and being a light to others. It also recounts the story of the Syrian commander Naaman being healed of leprosy after washing in the Jordan River at the command of the prophet Elisha. The passages contrast righteous behavior with sinful deeds and emphasize that believers should shine their light for others through good works.
A chip off the old block with audio 42812ArmsOfLove
This document recounts Jacob's journey to Paddan-aram to find a wife from his extended family as his parents had instructed. It describes his encounter with God at Bethel in a dream where God promises the land and numerous offspring to Jacob. It then tells of Jacob meeting Rachel at a well and working for her father Laban for seven years to marry her, only to be deceived into marrying Leah first. Jacob then works another seven years for Rachel. The document ends with Leah bearing children for Jacob while her sister Rachel remains barren.
A chip off the old block with audio 42812ArmsOfLove
This document recounts Jacob's journey to Paddan-aram to find a wife from his extended family as his parents had instructed. It describes his encounter with God at Bethel in a dream where God promises the land and numerous offspring to Jacob. It then tells of Jacob meeting Rachel at a well and working for her father Laban for seven years to marry her, only to be deceived into marrying Leah first. Jacob then works another seven years for Rachel. The document ends with Leah bearing children for Jacob while her sister Rachel remains barren.
Israel had peace for 45 years under the leadership of Tola and Jair. When they were oppressed, the Israelites chose Jephthah, the son of a prostitute, to lead them against the Ammonites. Jephthah negotiated with the Ammonite king but diplomacy failed. With the Spirit of God upon him, Jephthah led the Israelites to victory over the Ammonites. The document discusses how God empowered Jephthah and the Israelites should not compromise but trust God fully to receive his best.
- King Zedekiah of Judah rebelled against Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, who had made Zedekiah swear allegiance. Nebuchadnezzar's army besieged Jerusalem.
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The document outlines 20 characteristics that the Bible says leaders in the church should demonstrate based on instructions to Timothy and Titus. It emphasizes that potential leaders must first be tested to demonstrate these characteristics, such as having a good reputation outside the church, being temperate, prudent, hospitable, and not greedy. It concludes by saying that while there are no perfect leaders, communities will tend to get the quality of leadership they deserve and support, and when leaders fail it tests our understanding of the covenant through Jesus' blood rather than being an occasion to deny responsibility.
Jesus trained 12 disciples through close observation, togetherness, and imitation of his life and teachings. He spent extensive time with them in order to impart his character and vision for continuing his global mission. Rather than a formal curriculum, Jesus' method centered on developing intimate relationships where the disciples learned from directly experiencing his lifestyle and ministry. The small group setting aided their training by providing encouragement, challenge, and accountability to one another as they emulated Jesus' example. His goal was to qualify them as future leaders who would multiply his work of making disciples among all nations.
Abraham had to leave his home, family, wealth, and everything familiar to follow God's call. By doing so, Abraham became totally dependent on God and was able to receive God's eternal inheritance. Abraham was the first "Hebrew," meaning "river crosser," as he had to cross over from his past life into a new beginning with God, leaving behind earthly things and traditions to receive spiritual realities of the new covenant. Before receiving God's promises, one must cross over from the old to the new by leaving the past behind and fully trusting God.
1. Balaam
All NKJV unless otherwise specified
Numbers 22
1
Then the children of Israel moved, and camped in the plains of Moab on the side of the Jordan across from Jericho… And
Balak the son of Zippor was king of the Moabites at that time. 5
Then he sent messengers to Balaam the son of Beor at Pethor,
which is near the River in the land of the sons of his people, to call him, saying: “Look, a people has come from Egypt. See,
they cover the face of the earth, and are settling next to me! 6
“Therefore please come at once, curse this people for me, for
they are too mighty for me. Perhaps I shall be able to defeat them and drive them out of the land, for I know that he whom you
bless is blessed, and he whom you curse is cursed.” 7
So the elders of Moab and the elders of Midian departed with the
diviner’s fee in their hand, and they came to Balaam and spoke to him the words of Balak. 8
And he said to them, “Lodge here
tonight, and I will bring back word to you, as the LORD speaks to me.” So the princes of Moab stayed with Balaam. 9
Then
God came to Balaam and said, “Who are these men with you?” 10
So Balaam said to God, “Balak the son of Zippor, king of
Moab, has sent to me, saying, 11
‘Look, a people has come out of Egypt, and they cover the face of the earth. Come now, curse
them for me; perhaps I shall be able to overpower them and drive them out.’ ” 12
And God said to Balaam, “You shall not go
with them; you shall not curse the people, for they are blessed.”
Balak – a type of antichrist king – wanted to hire a prophet of the Lord (Balaam) to curse to Israelites.
Balak sent elders to bring a diviners fee.
Balaam enquired of the Lord. The Lord clearly stated to Balaam that he was not to proceed.
The Lord stated that they are not to be cursed, for they are blessed.
13
So Balaam rose in the morning and said to the princes of Balak, “Go back to your land, for the LORD has refused to give me
permission to go with you.” 14
And the princes of Moab rose and went to Balak, and said, “Balaam refuses to come with us.”
15
Then Balak again sent princes, more numerous and more honorable than they. 16
And they came to Balaam and said to him,
“Thus says Balak the son of Zippor: ‘Please let nothing hinder you from coming to me; 17
‘for I will certainly honor you
greatly, and I will do whatever you say to me. Therefore please come, curse this people for me.’ ” 18
Then Balaam answered
and said to the servants of Balak, “Though Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the
word of the LORD my God, to do less or more. 19
“Now therefore, please, you also stay here tonight, that I may know what
more the LORD will say to me.”
Balak escalated the nobility by sending princes, as well as the stakes – increasing the reward.
We must ask ourselves a question at this point – would God change His mind when He has already made His will in
this matter clear? Was Balaam the prophet hoping that God would change His mind – was God holding out for a
better offer for Balaam?
20
And God came to Balaam at night and said to him, “If the men come to call you, rise and go with them; but only the word
which I speak to you—that you shall do.” 21
So Balaam rose in the morning, saddled his donkey, and went with the princes of
Moab. 22
Then God’s anger was aroused because he went, and the Angel of the LORD took His stand in the way as an
adversary against him. And he was riding on his donkey, and his two servants were with him.
We see here God granting Balaam permission to go – however God’s anger was aroused.
This is seen many times in scripture – where God grants you your desire – but there are always consequences. See
God’s granting of quail in the desert before the judgment (Numbers 11 v31-35).
23
Now the donkey saw the Angel of the LORD standing in the way with His drawn sword in His hand, and the donkey turned
aside out of the way and went into the field. …27
And when the donkey saw the Angel of the LORD, she lay down under
Balaam; so Balaam’s anger was aroused, and he struck the donkey with his staff. 28
Then the LORD opened the mouth of the
donkey, and she said to Balaam, “What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?”… 31
Then the LORD
opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the Angel of the LORD standing in the way with His drawn sword in His hand; and he
bowed his head and fell flat on his face. 32
And the Angel of the LORD said to him, “Why have you struck your donkey these
three times? Behold, I have come out to stand against you, because your way is perverse before Me. 33
“The donkey saw Me
and turned aside from Me these three times. If she had not turned aside from Me, surely I would also have killed you by now,
and let her live.”
The Angel of the Lord was about to strike down Balaam – for the way of Balaam is perverse before Him.
Not only was Balaam disobedient to the Word of the Lord, he was also a prophet for sale.
2. 34
And Balaam said to the Angel of the LORD, “I have sinned, for I did not know You stood in the way against me. Now
therefore, if it displeases You, I will turn back.” 35
Then the Angel of the LORD said to Balaam, “Go with the men, but only the
word that I speak to you, that you shall speak.” So Balaam went with the princes of Balak…38
And Balaam said to Balak,
“Look, I have come to you! Now, have I any power at all to say anything? The word that God puts in my mouth, that I must
speak.”
Numbers 23
4
And God met Balaam, and he said to Him, “I have prepared the seven altars, and I have offered on each altar a bull and a
ram.” 5
Then the LORD put a word in Balaam’s mouth, and said, “Return to Balak, and thus you shall speak.” 6
So he returned
to him, and there he was, standing by his burnt offering, he and all the princes of Moab. 7
And he took up his oracle and said:
“Balak the king of Moab has brought me from Aram, From the mountains of the east. ‘Come, curse Jacob for me, And come,
denounce Israel!’ 8
“How shall I curse whom God has not cursed? And how shall I denounce whom the LORD has not
denounced? 9
For from the top of the rocks I see him, And from the hills I behold him; There! A people dwelling alone, Not
reckoning itself among the nations. 10
“Who can count the dust of Jacob, Or number one-fourth of Israel? Let me die the death
of the righteous, And let my end be like his!” 11
Then Balak said to Balaam, “What have you done to me? I took you to curse
my enemies, and look, you have blessed them bountifully!” 12
So he answered and said, “Must I not take heed to speak what
the LORD has put in my mouth?”
Balaam only spoke what the Lord told him to speak – and this was blessings.
Balaam could not curse them, for God had not cursed them.
13
Then Balak said to him, “Please come with me to another place from which you may see them; you shall see only the outer
part of them, and shall not see them all; curse them for me from there.”… 16
Then the LORD met Balaam, and put a word in his
mouth, and said, “Go back to Balak, and thus you shall speak.” 17
So he came to him, and there he was, standing by his burnt
offering, and the princes of Moab were with him. And Balak said to him, “What has the LORD spoken?” 18
Then he took up his
oracle and said: “Rise up, Balak, and hear! Listen to me, son of Zippor! 19
“God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of
man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good? 20
Behold, I
have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot reverse it. 21
“He has not observed iniquity in Jacob, Nor
has He seen wickedness in Israel. The LORD his God is with him, And the shout of a King is among them. 22
God brings
them out of Egypt; He has strength like a wild ox. 23
“For there is no sorcery against Jacob, Nor any divination against
Israel. It now must be said of Jacob And of Israel, ‘Oh, what God has done!’ 24
Look, a people rises like a lioness, And lifts
itself up like a lion; It shall not lie down until it devours the prey, And drinks the blood of the slain.”
Balaam received a command to bless and not curse.
The reason that God reveals that Israel is blessed and not cursed is because of their obedience – He observed no
iniquity or wickedness (sin) in them.
Neither can there be any sorcery, divination or witchcraft against them for they are blameless before God.
This can be likened to Christians who are “IN CHRIST”. No curse or witchcraft will be effective against someone
who is in Christ. And we are in Christ when we remain obedient to Him.
25
Then Balak said to Balaam, “Neither curse them at all, nor bless them at all!” 26
So Balaam answered and said to Balak,
“Did I not tell you, saying, ‘All that the LORD speaks, that I must do’?” 27
Then Balak said to Balaam, “Please come, I will take
you to another place; perhaps it will please God that you may curse them for me from there.” 28
So Balak took Balaam to the
top of Peor, that overlooks the wasteland. 29
Then Balaam said to Balak, “Build for me here seven altars, and prepare for me
here seven bulls and seven rams.” 30
And Balak did as Balaam had said, and offered a bull and a ram on every altar.
Here we have a fairly persistent antichrist king. We can be certain as Christians that the devil will continue to try
attack and look for openings in our defences. What we allow or disallow will determine whether he will be successful
or not.
Balak even had the audacity to suggest that God might change His mind in this matter.
Numbers 24
1
Now when Balaam saw that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel, he did not go as at other times, to seek to use sorcery, but he
set his face toward the wilderness. 2
And Balaam raised his eyes, and saw Israel encamped according to their tribes; and the
Spirit of God came upon him. 3
Then he took up his oracle and said: “The utterance of Balaam the son of Beor, The utterance
of the man whose eyes are opened, 4
The utterance of him who hears the words of God, Who sees the vision of the Almighty,
3. Who falls down, with eyes wide open: 5
“How lovely are your tents, O Jacob! Your dwellings, O Israel! 6
Like valleys that
stretch out, Like gardens by the riverside, Like aloes planted by the LORD, Like cedars beside the waters. 7
He shall pour water
from his buckets, And his seed shall be in many waters. “His king shall be higher than Agag, And his kingdom shall be
exalted. 8
“God brings him out of Egypt; He has strength like a wild ox; He shall consume the nations, his enemies; He shall
break their bones And pierce them with his arrows. 9
‘He bows down, he lies down as a lion; And as a lion, who shall rouse
him?’ “Blessed is he who blesses you, And cursed is he who curses you.” 10
Then Balak’s anger was aroused against Balaam,
and he struck his hands together; and Balak said to Balaam, “I called you to curse my enemies, and look, you have bountifully
blessed them these three times! 11
“Now therefore, flee to your place. I said I would greatly honor you, but in fact, the LORD
has kept you back from honor.” 12
So Balaam said to Balak, “Did I not also speak to your messengers whom you sent to me,
saying, 13
‘If Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the word of the LORD, to do good
or bad of my own will. What the LORD says, that I must speak’? 14
“And now, indeed, I am going to my people. Come, I will
advise you what this people will do to your people in the latter days.” 15
So he took up his oracle and said: “The utterance of
Balaam the son of Beor, And the utterance of the man whose eyes are opened; 16
The utterance of him who hears the words of
God, And has the knowledge of the Most High, Who sees the vision of the Almighty, Who falls down, with eyes wide open:
17
“I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near; A Star shall come out of Jacob; A Scepter shall rise out of Israel, And
batter the brow of Moab, And destroy all the sons of tumult. 18
“And Edom shall be a possession; Seir also, his enemies, shall
be a possession, While Israel does valiantly. 19
Out of Jacob One shall have dominion, And destroy the remains of the city.”
20
Then he looked on Amalek, and he took up his oracle and said: “Amalek was first among the nations, But shall be last until
he perishes.” 21
Then he looked on the Kenites, and he took up his oracle and said: “Firm is your dwelling place, And your nest
is set in the rock; 22
Nevertheless Kain shall be burned. How long until Asshur carries you away captive?” 23
Then he took up
his oracle and said: “Alas! Who shall live when God does this? 24
But ships shall come from the coasts of Cyprus, And they
shall afflict Asshur and afflict Eber, And so shall Amalek, until he perishes.” 25
So Balaam rose and departed and returned to
his place; Balak also went his way.
The plans of the enemy came to nought. Balaam blessed Israel three times.
Not only this, but Balaam prophesied the coming King of Israel who would put all of His enemies under His feet.
Numbers 25
1
Now Israel remained in Acacia Grove, and the people began to commit harlotry with the women of Moab. 2
They invited the
people to the sacrifices of their gods, and the people ate and bowed down to their gods. 3
So Israel was joined to Baal of Peor,
and the anger of the LORD was aroused against Israel.
We saw in the prior passages that Israel could not be cursed because they were obedient to the Lord. So what was the
only way that the devil could get a foot in the door? Through disobedience. Numbers 31v16
16
“Look, these women
caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to trespass against the LORD in the incident of
Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the LORD.
We see that the advice given by Balaam to Balak was to get Israel to sin – tempt them by sending in their women.
They committed adultery against God.
There is a door in the spirit – which we can open or close based on freewill choice, which will either open up to Satan
working in our lives (through disobedience), or keep firmly shut (by obedience).
We see in Genesis that God warned Cain - Genesis 4v7
7
“If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you
do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.” Cain made the
wrong choice.
4
Then the LORD said to Moses, “Take all the leaders of the people and hang the offenders before the LORD, out in the sun,
that the fierce anger of the LORD may turn away from Israel.” 5
So Moses said to the judges of Israel, “Every one of you kill
his men who were joined to Baal of Peor.”
6
And indeed, one of the children of Israel came and presented to his brethren a Midianite woman in the sight of Moses and in
the sight of all the congregation of the children of Israel, who were weeping at the door of the tabernacle of meeting. 7
Now
when Phinehas the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, saw it, he rose from among the congregation and took a javelin
in his hand; 8
and he went after the man of Israel into the tent and thrust both of them through, the man of Israel, and the
woman through her body. So the plague was stopped among the children of Israel. 9
And those who died in the plague were
twenty-four thousand.
Judgement on the children of Israel was swift.
God never has, nor never will be tolerant of sin. We are a holy people set apart for the Lord.
Live a life under God’s blessing – not under the curse. See Deuteronomy 28.