Numbers 17 Commentary
In this very short chapter, the LORD God does one thing: Confirm Aaron’s priesthood.
A simple but miraculous test of approval is devised. Staffs from tribal leaders with identity markings are placed before the LORD God. Aaron’s staff is selected (elected).
The hope is that the matter of leadership is settled. But these lines show us more. The LORD God is equally unhappy with the many deaths resulting from rebellion. Now that the nation knows who is who for the priesthood, the hope is that we won’t have any more Korah-like rebellions, and consequently, no more deaths.
We see the compassions of the LORD God. It is the work of salvation. But salvation from what? In this case, it’s salvation from rebellion which is the real cause of these deaths.
The approval process is very interesting. It is not an aptitude test or a skills test. It is best described as an official communique—the LORD’s work of election. The staffs presented before the LORD God are not professional or qualification profiles. The LORD God qualifies the called. They go on to produce fruit. It is the fruit of the Holy Spirit!
The almond fruits on Aaron’s staff speak volumes about the work of the Spirit in election and the subsequent work and life of the called saint.
The elected or selected saint proceeds to sprout, bloom, and bear fruit – ripe fruit. Without the fruit, you probably aren’t called! You know them by their fruit!
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