In Numbers 15 In What Ways Can We Ensure That We Are Not Living In Defiance Of Gods Commandments?
Understanding Numbers 15: Defiance and Obedience to God's Commandments
Numbers 15 is a significant chapter in the Old Testament, providing a powerful lesson about God’s holiness and the seriousness of obeying His commandments. As we explore this chapter, we will investigate what it means to live in defiance of God’s Word and how we can cultivate hearts of obedience rooted in grace through faith in Christ.
1. The Context of Numbers 15
After the Israelites' rebellion in Numbers 14, God provides instructions about offerings and sacrifices in Numbers 15. These laws are given to both native Israelites and sojourners, signifying God’s expectation of obedience from all people in the community. The chapter culminates with a strong warning regarding intentional sin and an illustration of judgment upon a man who broke the Sabbath.
But the soul that doeth aught with a high hand, whether he be home-born or a sojourner, the same blasphemeth Jehovah; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. - Numbers 15:30 ASV
This verse highlights the difference between unintentional sins and deliberate, defiant disobedience (“with a high hand”). The latter is met with severe consequences, emphasizing God's holiness and justice.
2. Principles for Avoiding Defiance
To ensure we are not living in defiance of God’s commandments, the following principles emerge from Numbers 15 and throughout Scripture:
a) Cultivate a Humble Heart Toward God’s Word
Defiance arises from pride and self-reliance. God calls us to humility and receptiveness to His instruction. The psalmist writes:
Thy word have I laid up in my heart, That I might not sin against thee. - Psalm 119:11 ASV
Regular study and meditation on Scripture guard our hearts from drifting into rebellion.
b) Recognize the Seriousness of Sin
Numbers 15 distinguishes between unintentional and willful sin. All sin is serious before God, but willful rebellion displays contempt for His authority. The New Testament echoes this warning:
For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins. - Hebrews 10:26 ASV
This does not mean the believer can lose salvation, but it does warn of severe consequences for ongoing, unrepentant defiance.
c) Remember the Grace of God and the Work of Christ
While Numbers 15 emphasizes judgment, it also points to God’s provision for atonement. The sacrificial system anticipates the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ:
For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory. - Ephesians 2:8 ASV
Knowing we are saved by grace motivates us to obey out of love, not fear.
d) Develop Spiritual Practices of Remembrance
God instructed Israel to wear tassels as reminders of His commandments:
And it shall be unto you for a tassel, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of Jehovah, and do them; and that ye follow not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to play the harlot. - Numbers 15:39 ASV
Today, spiritual disciplines—such as Bible reading, prayer, fellowship, and accountability—serve as our reminders to walk in obedience.
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit
Under the New Covenant, believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to obey God’s commands:
For it is God who worketh in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure. - Philippians 2:13 ASV
We must yield to the Spirit’s leading daily, confessing sin quickly and seeking restoration.
Conclusion: Walking in Obedience by Faith
Avoiding defiance is not about striving in our own strength, but responding in humble faith to God’s Word, relying on His grace, and walking in the power of the Holy Spirit. Obedience flows from a transformed heart that delights in God’s commands.