The LORD would have destroyed virtually the whole rebellious nation had not Moses interceded on their behalf. No doubt this is recorded to prefigure the work of Jesus who as a mediator in heaven intercedes for his disciples. The LORD is longsuffering and merciful but he also punishes the guilty.v.18Waiting for response for Numbers 14:18 Although that generation was faithless, and later generations of Israel were also, yet God’s purpose will be fulfilled, as he said: “But as truly as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the LORD”.
God declared that the consequence of the rebellion was that most of that generation would perish in the wilderness, but their children would enter the land forty years later. Of the Exodus generation only Joshua and Caleb, who “wholly followed” the LORD, would live to enter the promised land, and these are set forward as examples for us “to have another spirit and follow the LORD fully”.
The last incident in this chapter shows the perversity of human nature. When Israel had the opportunity to enter the land they refused, but as soon as the opportunity was withdrawn they then attempted to enter it, but were thwarted. We can learn from this. Now is our time of opportunity to accept God’s invitation of places in his kingdom in the same promised land. Most reject this opportunity, but many will clamour to enter in when it is too late (Luke 13:24-25).Waiting for response for Luke 13:24-25
Verse 8
Waiting for response for Numbers 14:8The two faithful spies, Joshua and Caleb, tried to persuade the people to be courageous and to trust in God, with the assurance that if God “delighted” in them he would bring them safely into the land. This is the key aspect to note, for it can apply to us. If the LORD delights in us he will ultimately give us the promised land. Jesus himself is the example: “The LORD delivered me, because he delighted in me” Psalm 18:19Waiting for response for Psalm 18:19