2 Events in the Life of Moses (Exodus 17:1-6;Numbers 20:1-12)
Introduction:
1. In our lesson we are concentrating on 2 events that took place during the life of Moses. a. One event is recorded in Exodus 17:1-6. b. The other is recorded in Numbers 20:1-12. 2. As we study these 2 events, we will: a. point out some similarities and differences b. observe some general lessons from the reactions of Moses c. consider a practical lesson for Christians. 3. Let us begin by pointing out some . . .
Discussion:
I. SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES
A. These 2 events have some similarities. 1. Both occurred during the 40-year period when the Israelites were traveling to Canaan. 2. Both involved Moses, the leader of the Israelites. 3. Both involved the need for water. 4. Both involved the Israelites murmuring against Moses. 5. Both involved a miraculous supply of water from a rock. B. These 2 events have some differences. 1. The instructions God gave to Moses were different. a. (Exodus 17:6) "Smite the rock." b. (Numbers 20:8) "Speak ye unto the rock." 2. The reactions of Moses were different. a. (Exodus 17:6) Moses obeyed -- he "did so." b. (Numbers 20:11) Moses disobeyed -- he "smote the rock twice." C. Let us turn our attention to some . . .
II. GENERAL LESSONS FROM THE REACTIONS OF MOSES
A. Moses was required to follow God's instructions at the time He gave them (earlier -- "smite"; later -- "speak"). B. The instructions God gave at the second event were not to be confused with those He gave at the first event. C. When Moses obeyed God's instructions he was allowed to proceed to the Promised Land. D. When Moses disobeyed God's instructions he was not allowed to enter Canaan.
III. A PRACTICAL LESSON FOR CHRISTIANS
A. At one time God gave His law to His people [the Israelites] through Moses [the Law of Moses]. B. Now God has spoken to us through His Son (Hebrews 1:1-3). C. We are no longer to follow the commandments that God gave through Moses. 1. Moses prophesied that God would send His people another spokesman (Deuteronomy 18:18-19). 2. Jeremiah prophesied that God would make a new covenant with His people (Jeremiah 31:31-34). 3. According to Hebrews 8:6-13, the covenant that God made through Christ fulfilled this prophecy. D. Today we are to follow the law of Christ (Colossians 3:16-17). E. The Law of Moses has been taken away (Ephesians 2:13-15; Colossians 2:14). F. Application: This principle settles the type of music we are to offer in worship. 1. Old Testament: Psalm 150:3-5 2. New Testament: 1 Corinthians 14:15; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16
Conclusion:
1. Moses' law served its purpose -- it brought us to Christ (Galatians 3:24-25). 2. Let us not seek to be justified by the Law of Moses (Galatians 5:4). 3. Let us follow the law of Christ, the New Testament (Revelation 22:14).
