God once more speaks directly to draw His people into obedience.
In this verse, we see that “Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,” (v.17). Although the words here are brief, they remind us of the ongoing conversation between God and Moses. Moses, who lived approximately between 1526 BC and 1406 BC, is the chosen messenger of the LORD during Israel’s wilderness wanderings. This period follows the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and precedes their entry into the Promised Land, marking a transitional time when God gives detailed laws and instructions to shape the identity and worship of His people.
When the text says “Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,” (v.17), it underscores the divine authority behind the commandments that will follow. Moses stands as the mediator who receives direct revelation from God. His leadership role is critical in establishing Israel’s covenant relationship with the LORD, carrying these instructions and ordinances to the nation so that they remain set apart. In context, this verse prepares us for more instructions that will regulate Israel’s worship practices, sacrificial rituals, and daily living.
This divine communication also foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God through Jesus Christ (John 1:17). As Moses was appointed to convey God’s commandments under the old covenant, Jesus perfectly fulfills and reveals the Father’s will in the new covenant (Hebrews 3:3). Through this continuity, we see the faithfulness of God in guiding and shaping His people throughout history.
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Numbers 15:17 meaning
In this verse, we see that “Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,” (v.17). Although the words here are brief, they remind us of the ongoing conversation between God and Moses. Moses, who lived approximately between 1526 BC and 1406 BC, is the chosen messenger of the LORD during Israel’s wilderness wanderings. This period follows the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and precedes their entry into the Promised Land, marking a transitional time when God gives detailed laws and instructions to shape the identity and worship of His people.
When the text says “Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,” (v.17), it underscores the divine authority behind the commandments that will follow. Moses stands as the mediator who receives direct revelation from God. His leadership role is critical in establishing Israel’s covenant relationship with the LORD, carrying these instructions and ordinances to the nation so that they remain set apart. In context, this verse prepares us for more instructions that will regulate Israel’s worship practices, sacrificial rituals, and daily living.
This divine communication also foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God through Jesus Christ (John 1:17). As Moses was appointed to convey God’s commandments under the old covenant, Jesus perfectly fulfills and reveals the Father’s will in the new covenant (Hebrews 3:3). Through this continuity, we see the faithfulness of God in guiding and shaping His people throughout history.