Numbers 23:22 – “God brought them out of Egypt; they have the strength of a wild ox.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Numbers 23:22 is part of Balaam’s second prophecy, where he continues to speak God’s words of blessing over Israel. In this verse, Balaam reminds Balak that it was God who brought Israel out of Egypt, demonstrating His power and faithfulness. The reference to God bringing Israel out of Egypt highlights the miraculous exodus, where God delivered His people from slavery through a series of mighty acts. Balaam goes on to describe Israel’s strength, comparing them to a wild ox—a powerful and unstoppable animal, symbolizing Israel’s God-given might.
This verse emphasizes that Israel’s strength does not come from themselves but from God’s powerful hand. The imagery of a wild ox suggests a force that cannot be easily contained or defeated, reflecting the reality that God’s presence empowers and sustains His people. Balaam’s words serve as a reminder that Israel’s success and security are rooted in God’s actions and faithfulness, not in their own efforts.
Historical Context
The historical context of Numbers 23:22 is deeply rooted in Israel’s journey to the Promised Land. After centuries of slavery in Egypt, God delivered the Israelites through miraculous signs, such as the ten plagues and the parting of the Red Sea. This deliverance was the foundation of Israel’s identity as God’s chosen people. The exodus was not just a political or social event; it was a defining moment of God’s intervention, establishing His people as a nation under His protection and guidance.
Balak, the king of Moab, feared the Israelites because of their numbers and the stories of God’s mighty acts. He hired Balaam to curse Israel, hoping to weaken them. However, each time Balaam opened his mouth, God’s blessings flowed instead of curses. By recalling Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, Balaam underscores that their strength is not in themselves but in the God who rescued them—a power far beyond anything Balak or any other enemy could overcome.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Numbers 23:22 highlights the power and faithfulness of God in delivering and sustaining His people. The exodus from Egypt serves as a powerful testimony of God’s ability to save and transform. This verse teaches that God is the ultimate source of strength for His people; their victories and successes are not due to their own abilities but to God’s intervention.
The comparison of Israel’s strength to a wild ox emphasizes that God’s people are empowered by Him to overcome challenges. It serves as a reminder that God equips His people with the strength they need to face their enemies and fulfill His purposes. This verse calls us to recognize that our strength and deliverance come from God alone, who is both our Savior and Sustainer.
Literary Analysis
Numbers 23:22 uses vivid imagery to describe God’s work in Israel’s life. The phrase “God brought them out of Egypt” immediately recalls the dramatic events of the exodus, reminding the audience of God’s mighty acts. This historical reference serves to build the foundation for the next image—that of Israel having the “strength of a wild ox.” This simile captures the idea of uncontainable power, suggesting that Israel, empowered by God, is a force to be reckoned with.
The structure of the verse combines past action (“God brought them out”) with present reality (“they have the strength”), linking God’s historical faithfulness with ongoing empowerment. This literary approach emphasizes continuity—God’s past actions directly influence the present and future strength of His people.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 13:3 – “Then Moses said to the people, ‘Commemorate this day, the day you came out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery, because the Lord brought you out of it with a mighty hand.’” This verse directly connects with the reminder of God’s deliverance in Numbers 23:22.
- Deuteronomy 33:17 – “In majesty he is like a firstborn bull; his horns are the horns of a wild ox. With them he will gore the nations, even those at the ends of the earth.” This imagery of a wild ox is used again to describe the strength and power God gives His people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Numbers 23:22 serves as a reminder that God is the source of our strength and deliverance. Just as God brought Israel out of Egypt and empowered them, He is the one who delivers us from our own “Egypts”—places of bondage, sin, and struggle. This verse teaches us that our strength comes from God’s presence in our lives, not from our own abilities.
This passage encourages believers to trust in God’s power to deliver and sustain. It calls us to remember the mighty works God has done in our lives and to rely on His strength when facing challenges. When we feel weak or overwhelmed, this verse reminds us that God is with us, providing the power we need to move forward.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving nature by highlighting His commitment to deliver and strengthen His people. God’s act of bringing Israel out of Egypt was not just a demonstration of power; it was a profound expression of His love and faithfulness. God didn’t leave His people in slavery; He rescued them, guided them, and empowered them to become a great nation.
God’s love is also seen in His ongoing presence with Israel, described as giving them the strength of a wild ox. This imagery shows that God’s love is not just about rescue but also about equipping His people for the journey ahead. God’s love provides both deliverance and the strength to continue walking in His purposes.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Numbers 23:22 connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate deliverer and source of strength for God’s people. Just as God brought Israel out of Egypt, Jesus delivers us from the bondage of sin through His death and resurrection. Christ’s victory over sin and death is the greatest exodus, freeing us from spiritual slavery and bringing us into a new life empowered by His Spirit.
Jesus, referred to as the “Lion of Judah” and the victorious King, embodies the strength and power that this verse describes. In Him, we find the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to empower and sustain His people. Christ’s presence in our lives equips us to face any challenge, knowing that His strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does Numbers 23:22 teach us about God’s power to deliver and sustain His people?
- How can this verse encourage us when we feel weak or overwhelmed by life’s challenges?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s deliverance, and how does that shape your trust in Him?
- How does understanding God as both our deliverer and sustainer deepen our relationship with Him?
- How can we better rely on Christ’s strength in our daily lives, especially when we feel inadequate?
Numbers 23:22 reminds us that God is both our deliverer and our strength. It challenges us to trust in His power, rely on His presence, and walk confidently in the assurance that He is with us, equipping us for every step of our journey.