Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for December 1, 2019

From Here to Dependence

Numbers 9:15-23

Background/Overview of Numbers 1-8

* conclusion of one-year encampment at Sinai
*about to embark on journey through wilderness to promised land
*first and second Passover observances (Ex. 12 and Numbers 9:1)
*new beginnings: Law, priesthood/sacrificial system, tabernacle

1. Foundational Presence of God

• tabernacle: God’s presence with and among His people-constantly
• pillar of cloud by day
• pillar of fire by night

2. Functional Procedure of God’s People

• cloud moves/people move
• cloud stops/people camp

3. Fundamental Principle Communicated

• constant uncertainty of departure, duration and immediate destination
• the principle of dependence
• keeping the charge: adherence to divine command

4. So What?

• Because the Lord demonstrates the historical pattern of going before His people, depend on Him to go before you.
• how this text both encourages and exposes
• “Israel in the wilderness had nothing which we do not possess.” (Maclaren)
• “There is no time lost, while we are waiting on God’s time.” (Henry)
• connection to Christ: Heb. 11:39-40 and John 1:14
• “…by waters still, o’er troubled sea, still ‘tis His hand that leadeth me…” (Bradbury)