WEBVTT

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Introduction to the fourth book of Moses,
called Numbers.

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The English title of this book,
Numbers, comes from the Greek translation

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of the Old Testament and is based on the
census lists found in chapters 1 and 26.

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The Hebrew title, In the Desert,
is more descriptive of the book's

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contents.

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The book of Numbers records a tragic story
of regret.

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It's the story of the people of Israel as
they journeyed from Mount Sinai to the

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border of the Promised Land, on the east
side of the Jordan River, opposite

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Jericho.

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But the route they took was not the most
direct way to get there.

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God desired and promised to be their
provider and make them a great nation,

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a godly nation for the other nations to
follow.

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But when He tested their faithfulness to
Him in the desert, they grumbled and

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rebelled.

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This rebellion came to a head after twelve
spies were sent to explore the Promised

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Land.

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Upon hearing the fearful report of the
majority of spies, the people refused to

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undertake the conquest of Canaan.

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So God punished the people.

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Now they would have to wander in the vast
desert of Sinai for 38 more years.

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A whole unbelieving generation died during
that period of time.

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Eventually, after the wilderness years had
passed, only their children would enjoy

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the fulfillment of entering the Promised
Land by depending on God, their loving

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provider.

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As you listen to this part of Israel's
history, consider carefully how the

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influence of our choices and decisions
affect not only our own lives,

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but also future generations.