Numbers 15: Gods Chosen People

Introduction: Numbers 15 is an intriguing chapter in the Old Testament that distinguishes the Israelites as God’s chosen people. It offers invaluable lessons on obedience, the sacrificial system, and the nature of God’s forgiveness. This outline digs deep into Numbers 15, examining its theological implications and its connections to other biblical texts.

I. Numbers 15:1-2 – The Command to Offer Sacrifices
The chapter starts with God commanding the Israelites to make various offerings after they settle in Canaan. These offerings represent obedience and the acknowledgement of God’s sovereignty, similar to the sacrifices Abel made in Genesis 4:4.

II. Numbers 15:3-12 – Specifics of Offerings
Verses 3-12 elaborate on the specifics of the offerings – burnt offerings, sacrifices, and drink offerings. These offerings are reminiscent of the Passover lamb in Exodus 12:3-6 and convey the importance of following God’s instructions carefully.

III. Numbers 15:13-16 – The Foreigner’s Offering
These verses emphasize God’s impartiality. Just as the Israelites, foreigners also had to offer sacrifices to God. This concept echoes the inclusivity found in Ephesians 2:19, where Gentiles become part of God’s household.

IV. Numbers 15:17-21 – The Offering from the First of Your Dough
These verses command Israelites to dedicate a portion of their grain to the Lord, a practical way of acknowledging God’s provision explained in Deuteronomy 8:18.

V. Numbers 15:22-29 – Unintentional Sins and Offerings
Verses 22-29 deal with unintentional sins and offerings. Like 1 John 1:9, these verses underscore God’s willingness to forgive sinful humanity and restore fellowship.

VI. Numbers 15:30-31 – The Consequences of Defiant Sins
These verses warn of the penalty for defiant sins – being cut off from the community. This divine judgment is echoed in Hebrews 10:26-29, underscoring God’s wrath against unrepentant sin.

VII. Numbers 15:32-36 – The Man Gathering Wood on the Sabbath
In these verses, a man gathering wood on the Sabbath is stoned to death, emphasizing the seriousness of Sabbath keeping, as discussed in Exodus 20:8-11.

VIII. Numbers 15:37-41 – The Fringes on the Garments
The chapter concludes with God instructing the Israelites to make tassels on their garments as a reminder to obey God’s commandments. Revelation 19:8 also uses clothing as a symbol of righteous deeds.

Conclusion: The outline of Numbers 15 discloses a divine discovery of obedience, punishment for sin, and God’s enduring mercy. The chapter divulges a God who not only demands obedience but is also willing to forgive and restore. It conveys that our relationship with God must be characterized by obedience, reverence, and constant remembrance of His commands.