Numbers 11:26-30 is about the sharing of the spirit of God among the chosen leaders of the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation in carrying out God’s work.
26 Now two men remained in the camp, one named Eldad, and the other named Medad, and the Spirit rested on them. They were among those registered, but they had not gone out to the tent, and so they prophesied in the camp.
27 And a young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.”
28 And Joshua the son of Nun, the assistant of Moses from his youth, said, “My lord Moses, stop them.”
29 But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord’s people were prophets, that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!”
30 Then Moses returned to the camp, he and the elders of Israel.
Setting the Scene for Numbers 11:26-30
The scene in Numbers 11:26-30 takes place in the camp of the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness after escaping slavery in Egypt. Moses, the leader chosen by God, is in the midst of the people, along with seventy elders of Israel. These elders were selected by God to assist Moses in governing and leading the people.
The setting is a bustling camp filled with tents and campfires, surrounded by the vast desert landscape. As the Spirit of the Lord descends upon the seventy elders, they begin to prophesy, speaking the words of God. Two men, Eldad and Medad, who were also chosen by God but not present at the gathering, begin to prophesy in the camp. Joshua, Moses’ assistant, is concerned about this and urges Moses to stop them. However, Moses responds with wisdom, saying, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” This moment highlights Moses’ humility and desire for all to experience the presence and power of God.
What is Numbers 11:26-30 about?
This verse from the Book of Numbers reveals a powerful moment when two individuals, Eldad and Medad, began prophesying in the camp outside the established group of prophetic leaders. Their actions were unexpected and unconventional, causing a stir among the people. Joshua, Moses’ assistant, urged Moses to put a stop to it in response. However, Moses, displaying a profound level of humility and wisdom, expressed a wish that all of God’s people could experience the gift of prophecy, recognizing that it is a gift available to all who are open to receiving it.
Reflecting on this verse, we can draw important lessons about leadership, humility, and the inclusivity of spiritual gifts. Moses’ response reminds us of the importance of embracing diversity of gifts and talents within a community, rather than seeking to control or limit them. It challenges us to consider how we approach unexpected or unconventional expressions of spirituality and to honor the unique ways in which individuals connect with the divine. Moses’ wish for the widespread experience of prophecy also serves as an aspirational call for us to seek a deeper connection with the divine and to encourage and support the spiritual growth and expression of all members of our community, regardless of traditional hierarchies or expectations. How can we, like Moses, embody inclusivity, humility, and openness to the diverse ways in which the divine may manifest in our midst?
Understanding what Numbers 11:26-30 really means
The Book of Numbers, a part of the Torah, recounts the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. In Numbers 11, the people grumble about their hardships, prompting God to instruct Moses to gather seventy elders to share the leadership burden. When the Spirit rests on them, it symbolizes divine empowerment and approval, validating their new roles as leaders. Despite their temporary prophesying, Moses welcomes this manifestation of the Spirit’s power, emphasizing that God’s work transcends human boundaries.
Moses’ response to Joshua’s concern about Eldad and Medad prophesying outside the camp reveals his understanding that God’s work is not confined by human expectations. His wish for all to be prophets reflects a vision of widespread spiritual empowerment within the community. This desire resonates with Joel’s prophecy of God pouring out His Spirit on all people, emphasizing inclusivity and the democratization of spiritual gifts. Acts 2 further illustrates the fulfillment of this prophecy during Pentecost, highlighting the universal nature of God’s empowerment.
The passage underscores the significance of shared leadership and the distribution of responsibilities within a community. By involving multiple leaders, burnout and inefficiency can be mitigated, fostering a more sustainable and effective leadership structure. It also emphasizes that God’s Spirit can work through anyone, irrespective of their status or position, promoting inclusivity and mutual respect. The call for all to be prophets signifies the potential for each individual to contribute meaningfully to the spiritual life of the community.
Consider a scenario in a small church where the pastor, overwhelmed with responsibilities, invites members to share their testimonies and lead prayers. This act of shared leadership not only eases the pastor’s burden but also enriches the spiritual life of the congregation. Similarly, the seventy elders sharing Moses’ burden exemplify the value of collective leadership and the diverse ways in which God’s Spirit can manifest through individuals. This passage from Numbers 11:26-30 encourages us to embrace shared leadership, nurture spiritual gifts, and cultivate a vibrant and resilient faith community.
How can we respond to spiritual gifts in others?
When we observe spiritual gifts in others, we should honor and appreciate God’s work in them. Their gifts are given by God for a purpose and are meant to benefit the body of believers. We should not be envious or dismissive of their gifts but rather embrace and support them as part of the diverse tapestry within the body of Christ. Instead of competing or comparing ourselves to others, we should rejoice in the unique ways in which God has gifted each individual for His kingdom work.
It is important to remember that spiritual gifts are not given for personal glory or selfish gain but for the edification and growth of the church. When we acknowledge and celebrate the gifts in others, we are contributing to the unity and health of the body of Christ. We participate in God’s Kingdom work and create a harmonious community where each individual can contribute their part for the greater good by encouraging and affirming those with spiritual gifts.
Application
Embrace the Spirit’s outpouring in your life like a beacon in the storm of this modern life. Let the Word light a passion for God’s gifts in you and those around you, like a powerful engine propelling you forward. Remember, God’s kingdom is diverse, yet unified through His Spirit, like a strong network of connections in a digital age. Will you courageously step out, activate your gifts, and illuminate the world with the glory of God and the empowerment of His people?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.