TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Numbers 27:15–23. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here, I. Moses prays for a successor. When God had told him that he must die, though it appears elsewhere that he solicited for a reprieve for himself (Deu 3:24, Deu 3:25), yet, when this could not be obtained, he begged earnestly that the work of God might be carried on, though he might not have the honour of finishing it. Envious spirits do not love their successors, but Moses was not one of these. We should concern ourselves, both in our prayers and in our endeavours, for the rising generation, that religion may flourish, and the interests of God's kingdom among men may be maintained and advanced, when we are in our graves. In this prayer Moses expresses, 1. A tender concern for the people of Israel: That the congregation of the Lord be not as sheep which have no shepherd. Our Saviour uses this comparison in his compassions for the people when they wanted good ministers, Mat 9:36. Magistrates and ministers are the shepherds of a people; if these be wanting, or be not as they should be, people are apt to wander and be scattered abroad, are exposed to enemies, and in danger of wanting food and of hurting one another, as sheep having no shepherd. 2. A believing dependence upon God, as the God of the spirits of all flesh. He is both the former and the searcher of spirits, and therefore can either find men fit or make them fit to serve his purposes, for the good of his church. Moses prays to God, not to send an angel, but to set a man over the congregation, that is, to nominate and appoint one whom he would qualify and own as ruler of his people Israel. Before God gave this blessing to Israel, he stirred up Moses to pray for it: thus Christ, before he sent forth his apostles, called to those about him to pray the Lord of the harvest that he would send forth labourers into his harvest, Mat 9:38.
II.God, in answer to his prayer, appoints him a successor, even Joshua, who had long since signalized himself by his courage in fighting Amalek, his humility in ministering to Moses, and his faith and sincerity in witnessing against the report of the evil spies; this is the man whom God pitches upon to succeed Moses: A man in whom is the Spirit, the Spirit of grace (he is a good man, fearing God and hating covetousness, and acting from principle), the spirit of government (he is fit to do the work and discharge the trusts of his place), a spirit of conduct and courage; and he had also the spirit of prophecy, for the Lord often spoke unto him, Jos 4:1; Jos 6:2; Jos 7:10. Now here,
1.God directs Moses how to secure the succession to Joshua.
(1.)He must ordain him: Lay thy hand upon him, Num 27:18. This was done in token of Moses' transferring the government to him, as the laying of hands on the sacrifice put the offering in the place and stead of the offerer; also in token of God's conferring the blessing of the Spirit upon him, which Moses obtained by prayer. It is said (Deu 34:9), Joshua was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him. This rite of imposing hands we find used in the New Testament in the setting apart of gospel ministers, denoting a solemn designation of them to the office and an earnest desire that God would qualify them for it and own them in it. It is the offering of them to Christ and his church for living sacrifices.
(2.)He must present him to Eleazar and the people, set him before them, that they might know him to be designed of God for this great trust and consent to that designation.
(3.)He must give him a charge, v. 19. He must be charged with the people of Israel, who were delivered into his hand as sheep into the hand of a shepherd, and for whom he must be accountable. He must be strictly charged to do his duty to them; though they were under his command, he was under God's command, and from him must receive charge. The highest must know that there is a higher than they. This charge must be given him in their sight, that it might be the more affecting to Joshua, and that the people, seeing the work and care of their prince, might be the more engaged to assist and encourage him.
(4.)He must put some of his honour upon him, Num 27:20. Joshua at the most had but some of the honour of Moses, and in many instances came short of him; but this seems to be meant of his taking him now, while he lived, into partnership with him in the government and admitting him to act with authority as his assistant. It is an honour to be employed for God and his church; some of this honour must be put upon Joshua, that the people, being used to obey him while Moses lived, might the more cheerfully do it afterwards.
(5.)He must appoint Eleazar the high priest, with this breast-plate of judgment, to be his privy-council (Num 27:21): He shall stand before Eleazar, by him to consult the oracle, ready to receive and observe all the instructions that should be given him by it. This was a direction to Joshua. Though he was full of the Spirit, and had all this honour put upon him, yet he must do nothing without asking counsel of God, not leaning to his own understanding. It was also a great encouragement to him. To govern Israel, and to conquer Canaan, were two hard tasks, but God assures him that in both he should be under a divine conduct; and in every difficult case God would advise him to that which should be for the best. Moses had recourse to the oracle of God himself, but Joshua and the succeeding judges must use the ministry of the high priest, and consult the judgment of urim, which, the Jews say, might not be enquired of but by the king or the head of the sanhedrim, or by the agent or representative of the people, for them, and in their name. Thus the government of Israel was now purely divine, for both the designation and direction of their princes were entirely so. At the word of the priest, according to the judgment of urim, Joshua and all Israel must go out and come in; and no doubt God, who thus guided, would preserve both their going out and their coming in. Those are safe, and may be easy, that follow God, and in all their ways acknowledge him.
2.Moses does according to these directions, Num 27:22, Num 27:23. He cheerfully ordained Joshua,
(1.)Though it was a present lessening to himself, and amounted almost to a resignation of the government. He was very willing that the people should look off from him, and gaze on the rising sun.
(2.)Though it might appear a perpetual slur upon his family. It would not have been so much his praise if he had thus resigned his honour to a son of his own; but with his own hands first to ordain Eleazar high priest, and then Joshua, one of another tribe, chief ruler, while his own children had no preferment at all, but were left in the rank of common Levites, this was such an instance of self-denial and submission to the will of God as was more his glory than the highest advancement of his family could have been; for it confirms his character as the meekest man upon earth, and faithful to him that appointed him in all his house. This (says the excellent bishop Patrick) shows him to have had a principle which raised him above all other lawgivers, who always took care to establish their families in some share of that greatness which they themselves possessed; but hereby it appeared that Moses acted not from himself, because he acted not for himself.
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Summary
Numbers 27:22 records the immediate and faithful execution of God's command by Moses concerning the public commissioning of Joshua as his divinely appointed successor. This pivotal moment meticulously details the formal transfer of leadership from Moses, who had faithfully led Israel for forty years, to Joshua, who was destined to guide the next generation into the Promised Land. The verse underscores the critical importance of divine authority, orderly succession, and communal affirmation for the continuity and spiritual well-being of God's people.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is the direct fulfillment of the LORD's explicit instructions to Moses regarding the transfer of leadership. In Numbers 27:15-17, Moses, acutely aware of his impending death and deeply concerned for the future of the Israelite congregation, petitions the LORD to appoint a new leader to guide the people. God responds by designating Joshua, a man uniquely described as being "in whom is the spirit" (Numbers 27:18). The divine command then specifies the precise procedure for Joshua's public commissioning: it must occur "before Eleazar the priest and before all the congregation," with Moses laying his hand upon him (Numbers 27:19-21). Verse 22 serves as the narrative climax of this divine mandate, demonstrating Moses' swift, complete, and unwavering obedience, thereby ensuring a legitimate and divinely sanctioned transfer of authority crucial for the nation's imminent entry into Canaan.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, leadership transitions were frequently turbulent, often marked by power struggles, assassinations, and instability. In stark contrast, Israel's leadership was to be divinely ordained, ensuring continuity, legitimacy, and stability under God's covenant. The public nature of Joshua's commissioning, occurring "before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation," was paramount. Eleazar, as the high priest, embodied the spiritual authority and the continuity of the covenant relationship, thereby lending crucial religious sanction to the event. The presence of "all the congregation" ensured transparency, communal witness, and the collective acceptance of Joshua's authority by the entire community. This public affirmation was vital to prevent future disputes, foster unity, and prepare the nation for the formidable task of conquering the Promised Land. This act established a foundational precedent for future leadership within Israel's unique theocratic structure.
Key Themes:
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb (H6213) signifies "to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application." In the context of Numbers 27:22, its use emphasizes Moses' immediate, complete, and faithful execution of the divine command. It conveys a sense of promptness and thoroughness, highlighting that Moses did not delay, question, or deviate from the LORD's explicit instructions, demonstrating his unwavering obedience.
This word (H6680) denotes "(intensively) to constitute, enjoin." It implies a direct, authoritative instruction or order from a superior, leaving no room for negotiation, personal interpretation, or partial fulfillment. Its presence here underscores the divine origin and the binding, non-negotiable nature of the instructions given to Moses regarding Joshua's appointment, highlighting God's sovereign initiative.
This verb (H5975) means "to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)." In this verse, it indicates a formal, deliberate, and public action of placing Joshua in a prominent and authoritative position before the designated witnesses. It implies a public presentation, installation, and recognition of his new role, signifying the official transfer of authority and the public affirmation of his leadership.
Verse Breakdown
"And Moses did as the LORD commanded him"
This opening clause immediately establishes Moses' unwavering obedience and profound faithfulness to God's explicit instructions, which were detailed in Numbers 27:18-21. It underscores that Joshua's appointment was not a human initiative or political maneuver but a divinely ordained act, executed precisely according to God's sovereign will and timing.
"and he took Joshua"
This simple yet profoundly significant action signifies Moses' active and personal role in the leadership transition. It is not a passive observation but a deliberate act of presenting his chosen successor, physically bringing Joshua forward to assume his new and immense responsibilities. This personal involvement from the departing leader adds immense weight, legitimacy, and continuity to the transfer of authority.
"and set him before Eleazar the priest"
The presence and participation of Eleazar, the high priest, are absolutely crucial for the religious, spiritual, and covenantal sanction of the leadership transition. Eleazar represents the continuity of the Aaronic priesthood and the divine covenant, ensuring that Joshua's authority is recognized not only by the people but also by the spiritual leadership, thereby solidifying its divine approval and sacred legitimacy.
"and before all the congregation"
This phrase highlights the public, transparent, and communal nature of Joshua's commissioning. By presenting Joshua before the entire assembly of Israel, his legitimacy is established unequivocally in the eyes of all the tribes and families. This transparency fosters unity, prevents future disputes, and secures the collective witness, acceptance, and allegiance of the community for Joshua's leadership as they prepare for the challenging conquest of Canaan.
Literary Devices
Numbers 27:22 masterfully employs several literary techniques to convey its profound message. The verse primarily utilizes Narrative Progression, swiftly moving the story from the divine instruction in the preceding verses to Moses' immediate and faithful human action, thereby demonstrating the seamless execution of God's will. The precise detailing of Moses' actions ("took Joshua," "set him") and the designated witnesses ("Eleazar the priest," "all the congregation") serves as powerful Emphasis on the legitimacy, divine sanction, and public nature of Joshua's appointment. The act of "setting him before" these key figures carries strong Symbolism of public affirmation, the formal transfer of authority, and the communal recognition of a new, divinely chosen leader. This public ceremony also functions as Foreshadowing, establishing Joshua's authority and preparing the reader for his subsequent, divinely empowered leadership throughout the book of Joshua, where he leads Israel into the Promised Land.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse powerfully illustrates the principle of divinely appointed leadership and the critical importance of faithful obedience to God's specific instructions. Moses' unwavering execution of God's command, even in his final acts of service and in the face of his own impending death, sets a profound example of stewardship, humility, and submission to divine will. The public nature of Joshua's commissioning underscores the communal and covenantal aspect of leadership within God's people, where authority is recognized and affirmed by both spiritual leaders and the entire congregation. This ensures legitimacy, fosters unity, and prepares the community for the challenging tasks ahead. This orderly and divinely orchestrated transition prevents chaos and ensures the continuity of God's redemptive plan for His people, demonstrating that God Himself raises up, equips, and empowers leaders for His specific purposes and for the advancement of His kingdom.
Reflection and Application
Numbers 27:22 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers regarding the nature of leadership, the call to obedience, and the importance of community. Moses' immediate and unreserved obedience, even when facing his own mortality and the end of his monumental leadership, challenges us to deeply consider our own responsiveness to God's divine commands. Are we willing to step aside gracefully when our season of leadership or influence ends, faithfully preparing the next generation and ensuring a smooth, God-honoring transition for the good of the community? The public commissioning of Joshua reminds us that leadership in God's kingdom is not a private affair or a pursuit of personal ambition, but a sacred stewardship exercised transparently before God and His people, requiring accountability, humility, and the affirmation of the community. It encourages us to actively pray for, support, and submit to those whom God raises up, recognizing that true authority flows from divine appointment and is exercised for the good of the whole, fostering unity, trust, and spiritual flourishing within the body of Christ.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was it so important for Joshua to be commissioned publicly?
The public commissioning of Joshua was absolutely crucial for several profound reasons. Firstly, it unequivocally ensured the legitimacy of his leadership in the eyes of all Israel. After forty years under the singular authority of Moses, the people needed a clear, divinely sanctioned, and universally witnessed transfer of authority to prevent confusion, doubt, or potential rebellion. Secondly, it powerfully demonstrated that Joshua's appointment was not a private decision or a political maneuver but a communal one, witnessed by "all the congregation" and formally sanctioned by the high priest, Eleazar. This public affirmation fostered unity, built trust, and secured the collective allegiance essential for the daunting task of conquering the Promised Land, as vividly detailed in Joshua 1. Ultimately, it underscored the enduring principle that leadership within God's people is a sacred stewardship exercised before the entire community, requiring transparency, accountability, and the broad acceptance of the people.
What does "a man in whom is the spirit" (Numbers 27:18) signify about Joshua's qualifications?
The phrase "a man in whom is the spirit" signifies that Joshua possessed a unique divine endowment, a special anointing by God's Holy Spirit, which uniquely qualified and empowered him for the immense responsibilities of leadership. This was not merely a natural talent, human charisma, or acquired skill, but a supernatural enablement for the immense tasks ahead. It indicates that God Himself had specifically prepared, chosen, and equipped Joshua for this precise role, much like the Spirit empowered individuals for specific tasks throughout Israel's history (e.g., Bezalel for craftsmanship in Exodus 31:3 or the seventy elders for leadership in Numbers 11:25). This spiritual qualification ensured that Joshua would lead according to God's will and power, not his own, guaranteeing divine guidance, wisdom, and ultimate success in the conquest and settlement of Canaan.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Numbers 27:22, with its vivid depiction of Moses' faithful obedience and the divinely ordained succession of Joshua, finds profound and multifaceted Christ-centered fulfillment. Moses, as the great lawgiver, prophet, and deliverer, faithfully served in God's house, as Hebrews 3:5 affirms, pointing forward to a greater leader and a more perfect house. Joshua, whose very name (Yeshua in Hebrew) is the same as Jesus, powerfully foreshadows Christ in several significant ways. Just as Joshua led Israel into the earthly promised land, Jesus, the ultimate "greater Joshua," leads His people into the true, heavenly rest and eternal inheritance, as richly explored in Hebrews 4. Christ perfectly embodies the obedience exemplified by Moses, declaring, "I always do what pleases him" (John 8:29), and fulfilling all the Father's commands, even to the ultimate point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). Furthermore, Jesus is the ultimate divinely appointed leader, the Good Shepherd who willingly lays down His life for His sheep (John 10:11), and the one "in whom is the Spirit without measure" (John 3:34). His public commissioning occurred at His baptism, powerfully affirmed by the Father's voice and the Spirit's descent (Matthew 3:16-17), setting Him apart as the true, eternal, and sovereign leader of God's redeemed people, establishing a new covenant and ushering them into the ultimate and everlasting promised land of God's presence.