What is the book of Numbers?
Numbers is an account of events in Israel’s history. It’s recorded as a collection of stories and laws. They were passed down within Israelite and Jewish families for hundreds of years. God spoke the laws to Moses and the people of Israel.
It’s thought that Moses wrote some of these stories and laws down. It’s thought that he wrote them down between the years 1450 and 1410 BC.
Others were written down by other Israelites.
Who was this book written for?
For the people of Israel.
Why was Numbers written?
To record the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the border of Canaan.
To record more of God’s laws for the Israelites.
To record the lists of people that were counted.
Main ideas
Jacob’s family line had grown very large.
The Israelites suffered when they disobeyed God and spoke against him.
God forgave the Israelites. He had patience with them and provided for them.
Outline
The Israelites prepare to leave Mount Sinai (1 – 10).
The Israelites speak against God and Moses (11 – 12).
The Israelites refuse to enter Canaan (13 – 14).
Wandering in the desert (15 – 19).
Marching from Kadesh to the plains of Moab (20 – 21).
The Israelites prepare to enter Canaan (22 – 36).