Numbers 22:35 – “The angel of the Lord said to Balaam, ‘Go with the men, but speak only what I tell you.’ So Balaam went with Balak’s officials.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Numbers 22:35 shows the moment when the angel of the Lord gives Balaam clear instructions after their intense encounter. Although Balaam had been corrected and had admitted his wrongdoing, the angel allows him to continue his journey with one crucial condition: Balaam must only speak the words that God puts in his mouth. This command emphasizes that Balaam’s role is not to act on his own desires but to be a true messenger of God’s will.
The angel’s directive serves as both a warning and a guideline. It reinforces that while Balaam is allowed to go forward, he must remain faithful to God’s words and not be swayed by the desires for riches or honor promised by King Balak. This instruction underscores the importance of obedience and the responsibility that comes with speaking on God’s behalf.
Historical Context
Balaam was a prophet known for his spiritual influence, and he had been hired by King Balak of Moab to curse the Israelites, who were camped nearby. Balak was terrified of the Israelites’ strength and hoped that Balaam’s curse would weaken them. Although God had initially forbidden Balaam from going, Balaam’s desire for the rewards offered by Balak led him to pursue this path, even though it went against God’s will.
The angel’s appearance on the road was a direct response to Balaam’s disobedience. God used the angel to confront Balaam and remind him of the seriousness of his actions. Balaam’s encounter with the angel served as a stark reminder that his prophetic role came with great responsibility and that he was accountable to God alone, not to human kings or desires for wealth.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God’s commands, especially when serving as His representative. Theologically, it teaches that God’s messages must be delivered faithfully and without alteration, no matter the external pressures or personal desires that may try to sway us. Balaam’s charge to speak only what God tells him underscores the seriousness of handling God’s word with integrity.
The verse also serves as a reminder that God’s plans will prevail despite human intentions. Balaam’s journey could have ended in disaster, but God’s intervention redirected him and allowed him to continue, provided that he submitted to God’s guidance. This teaches that even when we have gone astray, God’s purpose remains and His call to obedience stands.
Literary Analysis
Numbers 22:35 uses direct dialogue to emphasize the authority of God’s command through the angel. The instruction to “speak only what I tell you” serves as a central theme of the narrative, highlighting the ongoing tension between human will and divine command. The repetition of God’s directive reflects the urgency and seriousness of Balaam’s role, emphasizing that any deviation from God’s word is unacceptable.
The verse functions as a narrative bridge, moving Balaam from a place of confrontation and correction to a renewed mission under strict conditions. It highlights the shift in Balaam’s journey from pursuing his own agenda to submitting to God’s authority, marking a pivotal moment in his story.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 18:18-19: “I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him.” This verse reflects the principle that true prophets speak only what God commands.
- Jeremiah 1:7: “But the Lord said to me, ‘Do not say, “I am too young.” You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.’” Jeremiah’s call echoes the charge given to Balaam—to speak only what God says.
- Proverbs 16:1: “To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.” This highlights that while people have their own plans, God’s words and commands should always take precedence.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Numbers 22:35 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faithfully following God’s direction, especially when tasked with sharing His truth. Balaam’s experience teaches that our own desires and ambitions must take a backseat to God’s commands. This verse challenges believers to prioritize God’s voice over all other influences, whether they come from society, personal gain, or fear of others’ opinions.
The charge to “speak only what I tell you” is particularly relevant for anyone who shares God’s word, whether through teaching, preaching, or personal witness. It underscores the responsibility to handle God’s message with care, ensuring that what we communicate aligns with His truth and not our own preferences or agendas.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s grace in allowing Balaam to continue his journey, despite his earlier mistakes, but with a clear condition that ensures he stays aligned with God’s will. God’s instruction through the angel shows His willingness to correct and guide us back on track, demonstrating His patience and commitment to His people.
God’s directive to Balaam also highlights His desire for His word to be delivered accurately and truthfully. By instructing Balaam to speak only what He commands, God is protecting both His message and the people who will hear it. This shows that God’s love extends beyond correction; it includes a purposeful guidance that seeks to fulfill His plans.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Balaam’s command to speak only what God tells him connects directly to the role of Jesus as the ultimate messenger of God’s truth. Throughout His ministry, Jesus consistently spoke the words of God, saying in John 12:49-50, “For I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken.” Jesus perfectly embodied the principle given to Balaam: to faithfully communicate God’s message without deviation.
Jesus’ commitment to speaking only what God the Father commanded serves as the model for all who follow Him. He demonstrated complete obedience and integrity in delivering God’s words, emphasizing that true spiritual authority comes from submitting to God’s will. This connection reminds believers that, like Jesus, we are called to align our words and actions with God’s truth.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever felt pressured to say or do something that went against what you knew was right? How did you handle it?
- How can you ensure that your words and actions align with God’s direction, especially when faced with external pressures?
- In what ways does Balaam’s experience challenge you to listen more closely to God’s guidance and follow it faithfully?
- How does Jesus’ example of speaking only what the Father commanded inspire you in your daily life and witness?
- What steps can you take to prioritize God’s voice over other influences in your decision-making and interactions with others?
This verse invites believers to embrace the responsibility of faithfully following God’s direction, recognizing that His guidance is not only for our good but also for the fulfillment of His greater purposes. It encourages a heart of obedience and a commitment to speak and act in ways that honor God’s truth.