Numbers 21:4-9 “Look & Live” Ryan Laughlin

       



                                           Sermon Discussion Questions:
                                                   Numbers 21:4-9

1) After reading through Numbers, some may come to the conclusion that God has dealt harshly with His people. However, a better conclusion would be this is a “long extended meditation to get what we ask for.” How do you view your assessment of the book of Numbers thus far?

2) In verse 5, the people of Israel are complaining about the food, yet again. What is at the root of that complaint? What are they ultimately saying about God in that complaint?

3. A) We heard about the Greek word “acedia”, meaning, “without care” or “deadness of the soul”. How were the Israelites expressing this in chapter 21? How did God respond to them?

3. B) Sometimes we don’t see the good things we have in front of us. How do we recognize this in our lives and how do we battle not being content?

4) Quote from the sermon:“We need to learn that the Lord leads us to the wilderness not to die, but to live!” Unpack that quote a little more. First reactions to this quote. Were those words life-giving? Or were they hard to digest? Where in our own lives are NOT believing that truth about God. What examples do we have of Jesus being our “wilderness expert” that we really need?

5) The Israelites were wanting to go back to Egypt. In doing so, they had forgotten the oppression, slavery, etc of what God had rescued them from by bringing them to the desert. They had also forgotten why God had freed them. Look back on Exodus 5:1, 6:1-9, 7:16, 8:1, 9:1, 9:13. God didn’t just free the Israelites from slavery, but for a purpose. What does Exodus say that purpose was?

6) Sanctification is not introspection but looking outside of ourselves. Just as the Israelites had to look upon the bronzed statue, we must look at Christ who was raised up on our behalf. In what ways this week can you ask the Lord to help you look to Christ instead of your own strength, power, guilt, etc.