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Numbers 23:19
Verse
Context
Balaam’s Second Oracle
18Then Balaam lifted up an oracle, saying: “Arise, O Balak, and listen; give ear to me, O son of Zippor. 19God is not a man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? 20I have indeed received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God is not a man, that he should lie - This seems to be spoken to correct the foregoing supposition of Balak that God could change his mind. Even the heathen would not allow that their supreme god could be caught in a falsity. Hence Aeschylus, in Prometh. vinct. 1068: - Ψευδηγορειν γαρ ουκ επισταται στομα Το Διον, αλλα παν επος τελει. "The mouth of Jove knows not to frame a lie; But every word finds full accomplishment."
John Gill Bible Commentary
God is not a man, that he should lie,.... Man is a creature consisting of a body of flesh and blood, and of a soul, a created and finite spirit; but God, though he has the parts of an human body ascribed to him in a figurative sense, yet is not to be conceived of in a corporeal manner; and though he is a Spirit, yet eternal, immense, and infinite; and much less is as a sinful man, who goes astray from the womb speaking lies; no, let God be true, and every man a liar: he is God, that cannot lie; his counsels of old are faithfulness and truth; his promises yea and amen in Christ; the Scriptures inspired by him are true, and the prophecies of them are punctually accomplished, particularly what he foretold of the people of Israel, and promised unto them; that they should be happy, and inherit the land of Canaan; that be would be true and faithful to them, and there could be no hope, by any means whatever, to make him false and unfaithful to his word: neither the son of man, that he should repent; repentance is found in men, who repent for what they have done, or change their minds, as to what they intended to do or set about; perceiving it to be wrong to do it, or that they are able to do it, some unforeseen thing turning up they were not aware of: but nothing of this kind belongs to God, or can befall him; he never changes his mind, alters his counsels, purposes, and decrees, and never varies in his affections to his people, nor makes void his choice of them, or covenant with them; and his calling of them by his grace, and his gifts of grace bestowed upon them, are without repentance: and particularly with respect to the people of Israel, there was no reason to hope or believe that God would change his purposes or promises respecting their outward happiness, and enjoyment of the land of Canaan; or that ever he would be prevailed upon to curse them, or admit them to be cursed, when he was determined, and had so peremptorily promised that he would bless them: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or "hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" whether it be with regard to things temporal, spiritual, or eternal; for there is no variableness nor shadow of turning in his mind; he never forgets his word, he foresees all events, he is able to perform, and is true and faithful; and therefore whatever is gone out of his lips will never be altered, but will be most certainly fulfilled, Psa 89:34 Isa 14:24.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
23:19 Because of God’s reliable character, Balaam could do nothing but bless Israel.
Numbers 23:19
Balaam’s Second Oracle
18Then Balaam lifted up an oracle, saying: “Arise, O Balak, and listen; give ear to me, O son of Zippor. 19God is not a man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? 20I have indeed received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot change it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The King and the Kingdom
By Stephen Kaung2.0K1:02:12Kingdom Of GodNUM 23:19ISA 9:6MAT 16:18MAT 24:14LUK 2:7LUK 3:3ROM 9:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the nature of the kingdom of God by knowing the character of the king. The character of the king is demonstrated through the beatitudes, showing his humility, meekness, thirst for righteousness, mercy, purity, and peacemaking. The speaker also highlights the significance of the cross as a demonstration of the character of the kingdom. The sermon references Matthew 24:14, where it is stated that the gospel of the kingdom will be preached throughout the world before the end comes.
(Through the Bible) Numbers 21-28
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:29:34GEN 12:2NUM 23:19NUM 23:23MAL 3:6MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker uses a football game as an analogy to explain how God sees our lives. He emphasizes that God's purposes remain steadfast and sure, even though it may appear that He changes His plans. The speaker also mentions the book of the wars of the Lord, which is a missing book in the Bible that describes the wars God fought. The sermon concludes with a reference to a well called Bear, where the Lord provided water for the Israelites.
The Sure Word of God
By Chuck Smith1.6K34:30Word Of GodNUM 23:19PSA 33:6ISA 40:8MAT 24:35TIT 1:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the certainty and fulfillment of God's promises. He uses the example of God's judgment upon Jerusalem to illustrate this point. The preacher highlights that God's pronouncement of judgment is accompanied by a threefold confirmation: "I have spoken it. It shall come to pass. I will do it." He emphasizes that God does not change His mind or spare those who deserve judgment. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of choosing the right path in life, one that leads to everlasting life rather than shame and contempt. He warns against the danger of a comfortable gospel and encourages listeners to put their faith and trust in God's sure word. The sermon concludes with a blessing and a prayer for God's guidance and peace.
The Sure Word of God - Part 1
By Chuck Smith1.3K32:48NUM 23:19PSA 33:4PSA 33:13EZK 24:14REV 22:1This sermon emphasizes the faithfulness of God's Word, highlighting the certainty that what God has spoken, He will bring to pass without fail. It delves into the importance of choosing the path that leads to everlasting life by following Jesus, denying self, and taking up the cross. The message underscores the need for self-examination to ensure alignment with God's truth and the consequences of either walking in obedience or self-indulgence.
Freeing Failure
By Paul De Jong1.2K49:00FailureNUM 23:191SA 15:29PSA 102:27ISA 40:8MAL 3:6HEB 13:8JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the unchanging nature of God and how He is always able to do things perfectly. However, the speaker emphasizes that it is us who change. The speaker then shares their personal experience of growing up in a church that had a heart for worshiping God and being all that He wanted them to be. They also talk about having dreams as a child. The sermon concludes with the speaker expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be at Cottonwood Church and encourages the congregation to continue praying for New Zealand.
Only Believe
By Jim Cymbala1.1K32:12BelieveGEN 1:1NUM 23:19MAT 6:33MAT 28:19ACT 2:38PHP 4:19HEB 11:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of walking with someone and encountering a group of tough guys. The speaker's companion becomes afraid, but when the speaker takes her hand, she relaxes and has faith in him to protect her. The speaker then relates this to the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives, emphasizing that we cannot change or overcome challenges on our own. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding primary matters of faith and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit for growth and victory in our Christian walk.
The Attributes of God - Part 4
By William MacDonald98432:46Attributes of GodGEN 6:6NUM 23:19DEU 7:91SA 15:29PSA 102:24PSA 119:90ISA 45:21LAM 3:22ROM 3:261CO 1:91CO 10:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of worshiping God for his unchangeable character and faithfulness. He highlights the need for believers to bear the family resemblance of God by being consistent and not fickle or moody. The speaker also addresses the tendency of people to treat their loved ones poorly while putting on a pleasant facade for outsiders. The sermon emphasizes the importance of faith in God, highlighting that he is the only trustworthy one in the universe. The speaker also references verses from the Bible that speak about the faithfulness and immutability of God.
Cashing God's Check
By Jim Cymbala94529:48ProvisionNUM 23:19PSA 37:4MAT 7:7MAT 21:13JHN 3:16PHP 4:191TH 5:17In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of sloganeering in Christianity and emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with the promises of God. He highlights the need for authenticity and real talk in our faith. The speaker then references Philippians and focuses on the concept of contentment in all circumstances. He encourages the audience to seek wisdom and help from God in every aspect of their lives, including parenting.
The Truth Makes Us Free
By Basilea Schlink59304:35Radio ShowNUM 23:19PSA 18:2PSA 27:14MRK 11:24JHN 8:32ROM 10:132CO 5:17In this sermon, Basilia Schlink emphasizes the power of God to free individuals from their sins and bondages. She encourages listeners to have faith and trust in God's promises, as he always fulfills what he says. Schlink reminds believers that waiting on God is beneficial, as it humbles them and ultimately leads to experiencing God's help and release. She also emphasizes the importance of seeking help and accountability from spiritual counselors in the battle against sin and bondages. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for faith, humility, and reliance on God's promises for freedom from sin.
When We Need Revival: Distracted by Distress
By Ronald Glass53147:30RevivalNUM 23:19PSA 77:11PSA 119:153JER 4:28LAM 3:22MAL 3:6In this sermon, the speaker addresses the problem of feeling distant from God and the solution to this problem. He suggests that when life becomes difficult and overwhelming, our focus can become distorted. To regain focus, the speaker encourages the audience to remember God's word and His loving kindness. He emphasizes the importance of meditating on God's wonders and supernatural activity, particularly the creation. By doing so, we can find comfort and strength in knowing that God is faithful and unchanging, even in the midst of challenging circumstances.
The Knowledge of Salvation
By George Cutting0NUM 23:19PSA 119:89PSA 119:113JHN 6:47ROM 4:31JN 5:91JN 5:13George Cutting emphasizes the importance of knowing that believers have eternal life through faith in the Son of God, contrasting the uncertainty of man's feelings with the certainty of God's Word. He illustrates this with the story of the Passover in Egypt, showing how the sprinkled blood made the Israelites safe, but it was God's spoken word that made them sure of their salvation. Cutting stresses that true faith is not based on works or emotions, but solely on trusting in the trustworthy Person of Jesus Christ and relying on His finished work for eternal security.
Of the Veracity of God.
By John Gill0God's TruthFaithfulness of GodNUM 23:19PSA 19:9PSA 100:5JER 18:7JHN 17:3ROM 3:4EPH 1:13TIT 1:2HEB 11:61JN 5:20John Gill emphasizes the veracity of God, asserting that God is true in His essence, works, and words. He explains that God's truth is intrinsic to His nature, distinguishing Him from fallible humans and false deities. Gill highlights that God's truth is eternal, immutable, and the foundation of His faithfulness, which is evident in His promises and actions throughout history. He also notes that God's truth is reflected in the reality of creation, providence, and grace, as well as in the person of Jesus Christ and the Scriptures. Ultimately, Gill calls believers to trust in the unwavering truth of God, which stands in contrast to the deceitfulness of man.
Humility
By Andrew Murray0NUM 23:19ISA 66:9MAL 3:6ROM 11:292CO 7:10The preacher delves into the concept of 'irrevocable' in the Bible, emphasizing that God's gifts and callings are unchangeable and incapable of being taken back. This means that God will not change His mind about His promises to Israel through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The sermon highlights that true repentance leads to salvation without regret, contrasting it with worldly sorrow that leads to death. It underscores the unchanging nature of God's promises and His sovereign election, rooted in His immutable character.
Predestination
By Thomas Bradbury0NUM 23:19JOB 23:13PSA 115:3PSA 135:6ISA 30:21JER 3:19DAN 4:35JHN 1:13ROM 11:29GAL 4:6EPH 2:10Thomas Bradbury preaches on the unfailing mercy and inexhaustible patience of God towards His wayward children, highlighting His gracious dealings in restoring, saving, and delivering them from bondage. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God's will and experiencing His lovingkindness and tender mercy. The sermon delves into the significance of key phrases in Jeremiah 3, such as the Father's question 'How shall I put thee among the children?' and the child's privilege of calling God 'My Father,' ultimately leading to the child's everlasting security in not turning away from God.
Honouring God-Trusting His Methods
By John Newton0NUM 23:19PSA 145:13ROM 8:28PHP 2:13JAS 4:10John Newton emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's promises, highlighting the contrast between the faithfulness of God and the tendency of humans to doubt. He encourages believers to have faith in God's sovereignty, even when faced with trials and challenges, knowing that all things will ultimately work together for their good. Newton reminds the congregation that true peace comes from aligning their will with God's will and submitting everything to His control. He urges them to embrace humility and dependence on God, as these qualities lead to a deeper appreciation of the Savior and His salvation.
Meditation July 8th., 1656
By Anne Bradstreet0NUM 23:19PSA 16:11PSA 46:1JHN 3:16Anne Bradstreet shares a personal testimony of experiencing a severe fainting episode while her husband was away, but finding comfort and strength in God's presence and love. She expresses her unwavering trust in God's faithfulness and His promise of salvation, urging others to also put their trust in Him. Bradstreet's poem reflects her gratitude for God's goodness and power, contrasting it with the emptiness of worldly pursuits and false gods, emphasizing the eternal life found in Jesus Christ.
Be Sure of His Promises
By Charles E. Cowman0NUM 23:191CH 17:23PSA 18:30PSA 119:140PRO 30:5ROM 4:21HEB 10:232PE 1:4Charles E. Cowman preaches on the power of claiming God's promises in prayer, emphasizing the importance of being specific and confident in our requests, based on the certainty of God's faithfulness. He highlights the beauty and strength of standing on the written Word of God, confidently declaring, 'Do as Thou hast said,' knowing that God will fulfill His promises without fail.
Ezekiel 26:3
By Chuck Smith0ProphecyCertainty of God's WordNUM 23:19PSA 119:89ISA 55:11JER 29:11EZK 26:3JHN 3:16ROM 10:13HEB 6:182PE 1:20REV 20:15Chuck Smith delivers a powerful sermon on Ezekiel 26:3, emphasizing the prophecy against Tyre and its eventual downfall at the hands of multiple nations, starting with Nebuchadnezzar. He highlights the detailed predictions made by Ezekiel, which were fulfilled historically, showcasing the certainty of God's word. Smith reassures the congregation of God's promises regarding salvation and eternal life, while also warning of the consequences for those not found in the Book of Life. The sermon underscores the importance of recognizing the reliability of God's prophecies and the urgency of responding to His call for salvation.
How to Smell a Rat
By Anton Bosch0NUM 23:19PSA 119:89PSA 119:105MAT 5:18MAT 24:35JHN 14:6JHN 17:17ROM 3:4HEB 5:14HEB 13:8Anton Bosch preaches about the importance of discerning between spiritual poison and spiritual food as Christians mature in their faith, emphasizing the need to distinguish between truth and error. He highlights that truth is absolute and unchanging, centered around Jesus Christ as the way, the truth, and the life. The sermon also stresses that the Bible is complete, with God's revelation delivered once and for all through Jesus Christ, and warns against false prophets claiming new revelations. Additionally, it underscores that God does not change His mind, and His Word is settled and unchanging, guiding believers to measure all teachings against the Bible to avoid falling into error.
Of the Faithfulness of God.
By John Gill0Faithfulness of GodTrust in God's PromisesGEN 9:11NUM 23:19DEU 7:9PSA 89:8JER 31:33LAM 3:232TI 2:13HEB 3:21PE 4:191JN 1:9John Gill emphasizes the faithfulness of God as an essential attribute that defines His nature, asserting that without faithfulness, God would not be God. He illustrates this by referencing God's promises to humanity, such as the covenant with Noah and the prophecies concerning Christ, all of which have been fulfilled. Gill highlights that God's faithfulness is unwavering and manifests in both His promises and His judgments, providing a firm foundation for believers to trust in Him. He encourages the congregation to recognize God's faithfulness in their lives, assuring them that He will fulfill His promises and provide for their needs. Ultimately, Gill's message is a call to trust in the faithful Creator who has proven His reliability throughout history.
The Faithfulness of God Seen in His Ways With Balaam
By John Nelson Darby0Trust in God's GraceGod's FaithfulnessNUM 23:19DEU 8:2ZEC 3:4John Nelson Darby emphasizes the faithfulness of God as seen in His dealings with Balaam and Israel, illustrating how the enemy seeks to hinder God's people from entering the promised land. Despite Israel's rebellion and shortcomings, God remains committed to His promises, demonstrating that His grace prevails over human failure. The sermon highlights the importance of faith in recognizing God's unwavering support and the futility of the enemy's attempts to curse what God has blessed. Darby reassures believers that God's judgment is based on their standing in Christ, not their failures, and encourages them to trust in God's mercy and grace.
The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold Luke 1:5-25
By David Servant0NUM 23:19PSA 119:160PRO 30:5LUK 1:12LUK 1:18David Servant preaches about the story of Zechariah, a priest chosen to burn incense in the Temple, who was visited by the angel Gabriel with the news of his elderly wife having a special baby who would be a great prophet. Despite his initial disbelief due to their old age, Zechariah's inability to speak for nine months served as a lesson on the importance of believing in God's promises and not speaking against His word.
Testimonies of Those Who Were Seekers and Finders in the Hebrides Revival
By Duncan Campbell0RevivalSeeking GodNUM 23:19JOB 13:15PSA 118:19ISA 53:5EZK 34:11MAT 7:7LUK 4:18ACT 16:30JAS 5:161PE 2:24Duncan Campbell shares testimonies from the Hebrides Revival, emphasizing the transformative power of prayer and the seeking love of God. He recounts the experiences of individuals who, despite their initial indifference and worldly pursuits, were drawn to Christ through the faithful prayers of believers. The testimonies reveal a deep conviction of sin and a longing for salvation, culminating in a profound encounter with Jesus that changed their lives forever. The revival was marked by a collective awakening, where many found hope and purpose in their faith, leading to a powerful movement of the Holy Spirit across the islands.
Church Be Still!
By C.H. Spurgeon0NUM 23:19JOS 23:141SA 15:29JHN 14:6ROM 4:212CO 1:202TI 1:9HEB 4:1HEB 6:18HEB 9:15HEB 13:8REV 19:11In this sermon on the concept of 'Cannot lie,' the preacher delves into the profound truth that God is the epitome of truth and cannot lie, contrasting Him with the deceitful nature of the devil. Various Bible verses are explored to emphasize God's faithfulness and trustworthiness, such as Numbers 23:19, 1 Samuel 15:29, John 14:6, Revelation 19:11, and Hebrews 6:18. The sermon highlights the certainty of God's promises, particularly the pledge of eternal life, which was made by God before time began, showcasing His unchanging nature and eternal wisdom.
Precious Promises for Aged Saints
By James Smith0NUM 23:19DEU 33:25PSA 71:9ISA 26:4ISA 40:11ISA 46:3ISA 66:13JHN 10:282CO 4:16James Smith preaches about the comforting promise of God's everlasting care for the aged believer, assuring them of His unchanging love, support, and protection until their hair is white with age. The sermon emphasizes the imagery of God as a tender parent carrying His children through the challenges of old age, providing strength, comfort, and deliverance. The righteous are compared to flourishing palm trees, growing in grace and bearing fruit even in old age, reflecting the beauty and maturity of their Christian virtues. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's everlasting arms, which offer protection, affection, strength, and endurance, ensuring that nothing can separate them from His love.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God is not a man, that he should lie - This seems to be spoken to correct the foregoing supposition of Balak that God could change his mind. Even the heathen would not allow that their supreme god could be caught in a falsity. Hence Aeschylus, in Prometh. vinct. 1068: - Ψευδηγορειν γαρ ουκ επισταται στομα Το Διον, αλλα παν επος τελει. "The mouth of Jove knows not to frame a lie; But every word finds full accomplishment."
John Gill Bible Commentary
God is not a man, that he should lie,.... Man is a creature consisting of a body of flesh and blood, and of a soul, a created and finite spirit; but God, though he has the parts of an human body ascribed to him in a figurative sense, yet is not to be conceived of in a corporeal manner; and though he is a Spirit, yet eternal, immense, and infinite; and much less is as a sinful man, who goes astray from the womb speaking lies; no, let God be true, and every man a liar: he is God, that cannot lie; his counsels of old are faithfulness and truth; his promises yea and amen in Christ; the Scriptures inspired by him are true, and the prophecies of them are punctually accomplished, particularly what he foretold of the people of Israel, and promised unto them; that they should be happy, and inherit the land of Canaan; that be would be true and faithful to them, and there could be no hope, by any means whatever, to make him false and unfaithful to his word: neither the son of man, that he should repent; repentance is found in men, who repent for what they have done, or change their minds, as to what they intended to do or set about; perceiving it to be wrong to do it, or that they are able to do it, some unforeseen thing turning up they were not aware of: but nothing of this kind belongs to God, or can befall him; he never changes his mind, alters his counsels, purposes, and decrees, and never varies in his affections to his people, nor makes void his choice of them, or covenant with them; and his calling of them by his grace, and his gifts of grace bestowed upon them, are without repentance: and particularly with respect to the people of Israel, there was no reason to hope or believe that God would change his purposes or promises respecting their outward happiness, and enjoyment of the land of Canaan; or that ever he would be prevailed upon to curse them, or admit them to be cursed, when he was determined, and had so peremptorily promised that he would bless them: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or "hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" whether it be with regard to things temporal, spiritual, or eternal; for there is no variableness nor shadow of turning in his mind; he never forgets his word, he foresees all events, he is able to perform, and is true and faithful; and therefore whatever is gone out of his lips will never be altered, but will be most certainly fulfilled, Psa 89:34 Isa 14:24.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
23:19 Because of God’s reliable character, Balaam could do nothing but bless Israel.