The New Problem

Text: Numbers 25
3 October 2016

THE NEW PROBLEM

1. The problem of harlotry

2. The women of Midian   (Numbers 25:1)

3. The problem of idolatry   (Numbers 25:1)

EXTENT OF THE PROBLEM

1. Israel was joined to Baal of Peor   (Numbers 25:3)

2. The people bowed down to the gods of Moab   (Numbers 25:2)

DIVINE DEALING OF THE PROBLEM

1. The Lord’s word

a) To the leaders
b) To hang all the offenders   (Numbers 25:4)
c) In public   (Numbers 25:4)

2. Moses’ word to all the judges

a) To kill all who were joined to Baal
b) This problem had spread far and wide

3. Plague from the Lord

a) Fierce anger   (Numbers 25:3-5)
b) 24,000 people died   (Numbers 25:9)

BLATANT DEFIANCE

1. A Midianite woman was brought into the presence   (Numbers 25:6)

a) Moses
b) All the leaders

2. This was a blatant act

a) Challenging authority
b) Defying God

SWIFT RESPONSE

1. Phinehas, the son of Eleazar   (Numbers 25:7)

2. He slew the man and the Midianite woman   (Numbers 25:7-8)

COMMENDATION FROM GOD   (Numbers 25:10-13)

1. He turned back My wrath

2. He was zealous

3. Covenant of peace

4. A covenant of everlasting priesthood

5. He made atonement

COMMANDMENT FROM THE LORD

1. Midianites

To be harassed and attacked   (Numbers 25:16-17)

2. This was a plan/ ploy of the Midianites   (Numbers 25:16-18)