Lecture Notes on Numbers 20 and the Concept of Justice

Introduction

The lecture opens with the theme of revisiting God's call in various aspects of life (music, ministry, service).
Focus is on Numbers 20, described as a 'text of terror' due to its troubling nature.

Setting: First month in the Wilderness of Zin; Miriam dies and is buried in Kadesh.
Problem: No water for the congregation; people complain against Moses and Aaron.
God’s Instruction: Moses is told to speak to the rock to yield water.
Moses' Reaction: In anger, Moses strikes the rock twice instead of speaking to it.
Outcome: Water flows, but God punishes Moses and Aaron for not believing and sanctifying Him in front of the people.

Comparing the biblical story to societal issues.
1968 Olympics Example: Tommy Smith and John Carlos made a political statement with a raised fist salute, facing severe punishment.
Main Idea: The punishment does not always fit the crime, both in biblical and modern contexts.

Discontent arises when penalties are disproportionate to actions.
Examples include racial discrimination in the justice system; disparities in sentencing between crack cocaine and powder cocaine.

Moses' Context: Personal grief over Miriam's death; dealing with a complaining congregation.
Moses’ Frustration: Anger leads to disobedience, undermining God's instructions.
God’s Perspective: Moses fails to sanctify God before Israel, resulting in severe consequences.

Wasted Worship: Moses did not transform in worship despite being in God’s presence.
Wrongful Witness: Moses misrepresented God’s attitude towards the people.
- God intended mercy, but Moses conveyed anger.
- Importance of aligning ministry with God's message.
Withholding God’s Wonder: Moses failed to set God apart in the miracle.
- Credit was not given to God; it appeared as if Moses was central to the miracle.

Reinforces the importance of aligning ministry practices with God’s true message and glory.
Encourages leaders to engage deeply with God to effectively minister.