1:1 As the book of Numbers opens, the Israelites had been camped near Mount Sinai for more than a year. There they had received all the laws and regulations recorded in the book of Leviticus. They had been transformed into a new nation and equipped for their task. At this time, they were ready to move out and receive their land. In preparation, Moses and Aaron were told to number all the men who were able to serve in the army. This book is named for this census, or numbering, of the people.
1:2-15 Taking a census was long and tedious, but it was an important task. The fighting men had to be counted to determine Israel’s military strength before entering the Promised Land. In addition, the tribes had to be organized to determine the amount of land each would need, as well as to provide genealogical records. Without such a census, the task of conquering and organizing the Promised Land would have been more difficult. Whenever we are at a crossroads, it is important to take inventory of our resources. We will serve more effectively if, before plunging in, we set aside time to take a “census” of all we have—possessions, relationships, spiritual condition, time, goals.
1:20-46 If there were 603,550 men, not counting the Levites or women and children, the total population must have numbered more than two million Israelites. How could such a large population grow from Jacob’s family of 70 who moved down to Egypt? The book of Exodus tells us that the Israelites who descended from Jacob’s family “increased abundantly” (Exodus 1:7). Because they remained in Egypt more than 400 years, they had plenty of time to grow into a large group of people. After leaving Egypt, they were able to survive in the wilderness because God miraculously provided the food and water they needed. The leaders of Moab were terrified because of the large number of Israelites (22:3).
1:52-54 The very organization of the Israelite camp was ordered by God! By obeying God’s commands for organization, even when the reason for them was not apparent, the people became more effective. When a group disintegrates into a collection of individuals each going his or her own way, its ability to be used by God is diminished. But if the group unites and looks to God for direction and organization, its effectiveness will be enhanced.