August 19, 2010 Lesson 18 of Numbers 23 and 24 (second study)

What can we learn from Balaam about the demands of being a spokesman for God, and a steward of minister of his Word? Note carefully the answers which Balaam gives to Balak’s suggestions. Cf. 1 Cor 9:16-17. Answer: I do see that one more than one occasion Balaam is telling Balak, or his princes, that he must only say what God tells him to say or do. Balaam cannot and will not curse the people of Israel if God does not tell him to, and guess what God isn’t going to. The 1 Cor passage I find interesting considering this story. It is obvious that God is working through Balaam and that Balaam understands that there is a more powerful God in world than any other god. Paul points out here exactly how Balaam is behaving. Balaam is carrying out, or “discharges,” the “trust committed to” him.


23:19. What is said here to make God’s words different in character from those of men? When God gives us his word, of what else can we be sure? Cf. 1 Thess. 5:24. Answer: God never lies, never promises what He cannot deliver.