Numbers 27

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with the story of the daughters of Zelophehad, who approach Moses and the leaders of Israel to request an inheritance in the land, as their father had no sons. Moses takes their case to God, who rules in their favor, establishing a precedent for future cases. The chapter then shifts to the appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor, with God instructing Moses to commission Joshua before the people. Moses transfers his authority to Joshua, and the chapter concludes with a summary of the regular offerings and the Festival of Trumpets. Key verses include Numbers 27:1-11, which describes the daughters' request and God's response, and Numbers 27:12-23, which recounts the appointment of Joshua.

Context for the Chapter

Numbers 27 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Numbers, which recounts the journey of the Israelites from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. The chapter follows the story of the rebellion against Moses and the subsequent death of the rebellious leaders. It also looks forward to the conquest of Canaan and the establishment of Israel as a nation. In the broader biblical narrative, Numbers 27 contributes to the story of God's redemption of His people and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ.

Heart Application

As we reflect on Numbers 27, we are reminded of the importance of following God's instructions and trusting in His provision. We are also encouraged to seek spiritual leadership and to recognize the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding us. As we face challenges and uncertainties in our own lives, we can look to God's faithfulness and care for His people, as seen in the story of the daughters of Zelophehad and the appointment of Joshua.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Numbers 27 is about God's care for His people, especially those who are vulnerable. The chapter tells the story of the daughters of Zelophehad, who asked for an inheritance in the land, and the appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor. It reminds us that God is faithful and provides for our needs, and that we should trust in His instructions and leadership.

Voices from the Church

“The Lord has always been mindful of the poor and the weak, and has provided for their needs in a way that is beyond human understanding.”

— John Calvin

“The Spirit of God is the source of all true leadership and wisdom, and it is only by His power that we can fulfill our calling as leaders and followers of Christ.”

— Charles Spurgeon

Outline for Preaching

1. The Daughters of Zelophehad (Numbers 27:1-11) — The chapter begins with the story of the daughters of Zelophehad, who approach Moses and the leaders of Israel to request an inheritance in the land.
2. The Appointment of Joshua (Numbers 27:12-23) — The chapter then shifts to the appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor, with God instructing Moses to commission Joshua before the people.
3. The Transfer of Authority (Numbers 27:18-23) — Moses transfers his authority to Joshua, and the chapter concludes with a summary of the regular offerings and the Festival of Trumpets.
4. The Regular Offerings (Numbers 27:1-11) — The chapter establishes the regular offerings and festivals that the Israelites are to observe, highlighting the importance of following God's instructions.
5. The Festival of Trumpets (Numbers 27:1-11) — The chapter concludes with a description of the Festival of Trumpets, which is to be observed on the first day of the seventh month.

Core Doctrines

The Doctrine of God's Providence

Numbers 27 teaches us about God's providence and care for His people, especially those who are vulnerable. The chapter highlights God's faithfulness and provision for the needs of His people.

The Doctrine of Leadership

The chapter emphasizes the importance of leadership in guiding God's people and the need for spiritual qualifications for leaders. It points to the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering leaders and guiding God's people.

The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit

The chapter points to the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering leaders and guiding God's people, as seen in the appointment of Joshua (Numbers 27:18).

The Doctrine of Redemption

Numbers 27 contributes to the story of God's redemption of His people and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ. The chapter reminds us that God is faithful and provides for our needs, and that we should trust in His instructions and leadership.

Lessons from Numbers 27

1. God's Care for the Vulnerable — The story of the daughters of Zelophehad teaches us about God's care for those who are vulnerable and in need.
2. The Importance of Leadership — The appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor emphasizes the importance of leadership in guiding God's people and the need for spiritual qualifications for leaders.
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit — The chapter points to the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering leaders and guiding God's people, as seen in the appointment of Joshua (Numbers 27:18).
4. The Importance of Following God's Instructions — The chapter highlights the importance of following God's instructions and commands, as seen in the establishment of the regular offerings and festivals.
5. The Ultimate Fulfillment of God's Promises — Numbers 27 contributes to the story of God's redemption of His people and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ.

Themes from Numbers 27

1. God's Providence — The chapter teaches us about God's providence and care for His people, especially those who are vulnerable.
2. Leadership — The appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor emphasizes the importance of leadership in guiding God's people and the need for spiritual qualifications for leaders.
3. The Holy Spirit — The chapter points to the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering leaders and guiding God's people, as seen in the appointment of Joshua (Numbers 27:18).
4. Redemption — Numbers 27 contributes to the story of God's redemption of His people and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ.
5. Faithfulness — The chapter reminds us of God's faithfulness and provision for the needs of His people, and encourages us to trust in His instructions and leadership.

Questions for Meditation

1. What does the story of the daughters of Zelophehad teach us about God's care for the vulnerable?
2. How does the appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor emphasize the importance of leadership in guiding God's people?
3. What role does the Holy Spirit play in empowering leaders and guiding God's people, according to Numbers 27:18?
4. How does Numbers 27 contribute to the story of God's redemption of His people and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises in Christ?
5. What practical lessons can we apply to our own lives from the story of Numbers 27?

Detailed Chapter Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Cross References

Sermons on Numbers 27

	Sermon	Description
	Transmitting God's Power to Others - Part 1 by Derek Prince	This sermon emphasizes the significance of laying on of hands in transmitting God's power and authority for continuity in the body of Christ. It explores the spiritual purposes of
	With Nothing but God by B.B. Caldwell	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Job and how God stripped him of his wealth and health to deliver him from the pitfalls of Phariseeism. The preacher emphasizes t
	The Daily Offerings to the Lord by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith focuses on the ordination of Joshua as instructed by the Lord to Moses. He emphasizes that vows are unnecessary and that trusting in one's own fl
	Women's Rights - the Bible's First Suffragettes by Ian Paisley	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and relying on God for peace and relief from unnecessary pain. The preacher also highlights the story of five young
	The Issue Is Knowing God by Robert B. Thompson	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a personal struggle they faced regarding the idea of taking action versus waiting on God's guidance. They were torn between the urgency of t
	The Death of Moses by David Ravenhill	David Ravenhill discusses the significance of Moses' death and the transition to Joshua's leadership, emphasizing that God often raises new leaders during times of change. He refle
	Levi's Urim and Thummim Found With Christ. by John Gill	John Gill preaches on the significance of the Urim and Thummim, emphasizing that they represent the light and perfection found in Christ. He explains how these ancient tools were u
	The Discipline or Hard Places by A.B. Simpson	A.B. Simpson emphasizes the significance of facing hard places in life as opportunities for spiritual growth and discipline. He illustrates this through the stories of the daughter
	Joshua Chapter 9 the Discipline or Hard Places by A.B. Simpson	A.B. Simpson explores the lessons from Joshua Chapter 9, emphasizing the significance of hard places in our spiritual journey. He highlights the faith of the daughters of Zelopheha
	Don't Waste Your Afflictions by David Wilkerson	David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of not wasting our afflictions, using the example of Zelophehad's daughters who lamented their father's death in unbelief despite witnessi

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Numbers 27

In Numbers 27, we see a beautiful picture of God's care for His people, especially those who are vulnerable. The story of the daughters of Zelophehad teaches us about God's faithfulness and provision for the needs of His people, and the importance of following His instructions. The appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor emphasizes the importance of leadership in guiding God's people, and the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering leaders and guiding God's people. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, and of following His instructions and commands. We are also encouraged to seek spiritual leadership and to recognize the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding us, as seen in the appointment of Joshua (Numbers 27:18). Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?