Numbers 7:89 – “When Moses entered the tent of meeting to speak with the Lord, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the atonement cover on the ark of the covenant law. In this way the Lord spoke to him.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Numbers 7:89 describes a profound moment where Moses enters the tent of meeting, also known as the tabernacle, to speak with the Lord. In this sacred space, Moses hears God’s voice coming from between the two cherubim on the atonement cover, also called the mercy seat, which sat on top of the ark of the covenant. This verse emphasizes that God communicated directly with Moses, speaking from the most holy place, signifying His presence among the people.
This interaction between God and Moses highlights the unique role Moses played as the mediator between God and the Israelites. The voice of God coming from the mercy seat was a powerful symbol of God’s desire to be with His people, guiding and instructing them through Moses. It was a reminder that God’s presence was not distant but very near, accessible through the special relationship He had established with Moses.
Historical Context
The tent of meeting, or tabernacle, was the portable sanctuary that the Israelites carried with them during their wilderness journey. It was the place where God’s presence dwelled, and the ark of the covenant, housed within the Most Holy Place, was the focal point of this presence. The ark represented God’s covenant with His people, and the mercy seat was seen as God’s earthly throne, where His glory was most intensely felt.
Moses’ role as the mediator was crucial during this time. As the leader chosen by God, Moses was given the responsibility to receive God’s instructions and pass them on to the people. This direct communication between God and Moses signified the closeness of God to His people and His desire to lead them personally. It was a unique privilege that highlighted the special relationship between Moses and God, established through obedience and faith.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Numbers 7:89 emphasizes God’s desire to dwell among His people and to communicate with them directly. God’s voice speaking from the mercy seat symbolizes His presence, guidance, and willingness to engage with His people in a personal way. It reflects the relational nature of God, who does not remain distant but chooses to speak and guide His people.
The verse also underscores the importance of the tabernacle as a place of meeting between God and His people. The tabernacle was not just a structure; it was a symbol of God’s commitment to His covenant with Israel, showing that He was with them every step of their journey. This direct communication also highlights the role of faithful leadership, as seen in Moses, who listened to God’s voice and led the people according to His commands.
Literary Analysis
Numbers 7:89 serves as a climactic conclusion to the chapter, shifting the focus from the offerings of the leaders to the intimate relationship between God and Moses. The detailed description of Moses hearing God’s voice from the mercy seat emphasizes the sacredness of this moment. The verse uses vivid imagery to convey the idea of God’s voice emanating from the holiest place in the tabernacle, reinforcing the unique nature of this divine communication.
The language of the verse creates a sense of awe and reverence, highlighting the close proximity of God’s presence to His people. The focus on the voice of God coming from the mercy seat, flanked by cherubim, captures the idea of God’s throne being in the midst of His people, accessible yet holy. This narrative element stresses the personal and immediate nature of God’s relationship with His chosen leader, Moses.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 25:22: God promises to meet with Moses above the mercy seat between the cherubim, reinforcing the sacredness of this communication.
- Leviticus 16:2: Describes the Most Holy Place and the importance of the mercy seat as the focal point of God’s presence.
- Hebrews 9:5: Mentions the cherubim of the glory overshadowing the mercy seat, pointing to the significance of God’s dwelling among His people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Numbers 7:89 reminds us that God desires a personal relationship with His people. While Moses had a unique role, the principle of God speaking and guiding His people remains relevant. This verse encourages us to seek God’s presence and listen for His guidance in our own lives, knowing that He still desires to communicate with us through His Word, prayer, and the prompting of the Holy Spirit.
The tabernacle was a place where God’s presence was intensely felt, and today, we are reminded that God’s presence is with us wherever we go. We do not need a special tent to meet with God; He is near and ready to speak to us when we seek Him with a sincere heart. This passage challenges us to cultivate an active, listening relationship with God, trusting that He is present and desires to lead us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Numbers 7:89 shows God’s love through His willingness to be present and communicate directly with His people. God’s voice coming from the mercy seat symbolizes His readiness to guide, instruct, and be involved in the lives of His people. This verse reflects God’s loving nature, as He does not remain distant or silent but draws near to those who seek Him.
God’s love is further demonstrated in His provision of a mediator, Moses, who faithfully received and relayed God’s words. This arrangement was a picture of God’s care for His people, ensuring that they had clear guidance and direction. The intimacy of this communication reflects a God who values relationship, desires to be known, and engages with His people in a meaningful way.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The scene in Numbers 7:89 foreshadows the role of Jesus Christ, who becomes our ultimate mediator between God and humanity. Just as Moses spoke directly with God on behalf of the people, Jesus now speaks to the Father on our behalf. Hebrews 4:14-16 describes Jesus as our great high priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses and gives us direct access to God’s throne of grace.
Through Jesus, the barriers between God and humanity have been removed. The mercy seat, where God’s voice was heard, pointed forward to the mercy we receive through Christ’s sacrifice. Jesus fulfills the role of the ultimate meeting place between God and us, allowing us to approach God with confidence, knowing that He hears us and desires to speak into our lives.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you make time to listen for God’s voice in your daily life, reflecting the intimate communication seen in this verse?
- What does this verse teach you about the importance of seeking God’s presence and guidance in your own life?
- How does knowing that God desires to speak to you encourage you to draw near to Him with confidence?
- In what ways does Jesus’ role as our mediator inspire you to approach God with boldness and trust?
- How can you cultivate a deeper, more personal relationship with God, seeking His guidance as Moses did in the tabernacle?
Numbers 7:89 teaches us about the personal and relational nature of God, who desires to speak and guide His people. It challenges us to seek God’s presence actively and to listen for His voice in our lives. Through Jesus, we have even greater access to God, experiencing His love and guidance as we walk with Him each day.