Commentary on Numbers 20:6

Numbers 20:6 states: "And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation; and they fell upon their faces: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto them."

Context and Background

In this chapter, we find the backdrop of the Israelites’ wandering in the wilderness, a narrative that carries themes of disobedience, leadership, and divine encounter. Numbers 20 records the pivotal moment of the death of Miriam, the complaint of the people regarding the lack of water, and the subsequent events leading to Moses and Aaron's plea before God.

Commentary Insights

The actions of Moses and Aaron in this verse reveal several layers of significance. Let's explore insights drawn from classic public domain commentaries.

Moses and Aaron's Actions

Moses and Aaron’s response in Numbers 20:6 is marked by humility and reverence. According to Matthew Henry, their falling on their faces before the Lord illustrates their recognition of divine authority and their need for God’s intervention. This act signifies deep humility and the acknowledgment of their limitations as leaders and as instruments of God.

The Presence of God

The text states that "the glory of the LORD appeared unto them." Albert Barnes emphasizes the significance of God's glory as a manifestation of His divine presence. This event serves not only as an assurance for Moses and Aaron but also as a reminder to the people of Israel that God is still with them despite their doubts and complaints. The appearance of the divine glory stands as a pivotal moment of encouragement and direction for the leaders who are shepherding a wayward nation.

The Symbolism of the Tabernacle

The tabernacle, as mentioned in the verse, is a symbol of God’s dwelling among His people. Adam Clarke points out that it was where God communicated with His leaders and where sacrifices were offered for atonement. The act of approaching the tabernacle signifies a move towards seeking reconciliation with God. It underlines the principle that in times of crisis, one should turn to God for guidance rather than relying solely on human wisdom.

The Role of Leadership

This incident also offers valuable lessons regarding spiritual leadership. Matthew Henry notes that Moses and Aaron exemplified how leaders ought to respond to the crisis by seeking God earnestly rather than resorting to human strategies. For pastors and spiritual leaders, this illustrates the need for prayer and reliance on divine wisdom in guiding their congregations through challenges.

Lessons of Faith

The earnestness of Moses and Aaron in prayer emphasizes a crucial lesson about the persistent nature of faith. As Albert Barnes indicates, their humble act is also a model for all believers on how to approach God during times of distress. The call to approach God with sincerity and humility remains ever relevant for those seeking to foster a deeper relationship with the Almighty.

Theological Implications

This verse invites theological reflection on several key themes:

• The Nature of God: The appearance of God's glory highlights His holiness and majesty. His readiness to respond to Moses and Aaron signifies that God is both transcendent and immanent.
• Prayer and Intercession: The act of seeking God’s intervention through prayer is fundamental in Christian practice. Moses and Aaron’s approach exemplifies the posture of intercessors.
• Human Authority and Responsibility: The weight of spiritual leadership is underscored here, showing that leaders must not only guide but also be examples of faith and humility.

Conclusion

Numbers 20:6 is a powerful reminder of the need for divine direction in leadership and the importance of humility when approaching God. It calls pastors, students, and theologians to reflect on their own practices of prayer and reliance on God, particularly during turbulent times. The calling of leaders is profound, and the enduring principles found in this text resonate across generations, instructing current and future generations on the essence of faith and obedience. In an increasingly complex world, the example of Moses and Aaron encourages believers to seek the presence of God diligently, knowing that the glory of the LORD is always near those who earnestly seek Him.