A New Census

Numbers 26-27

            I entitled today’s post “A New Census,” but there are two other things to note. So, first, census. The one thing that stood out for me was the general stability of Israel’s population. They’ve only lost about 2,000 people in the wilderness; the Levites actually gain a few people. This speaks to the Lord’s provision over those years, as Deuteronomy 29:5 says, “Yet the Lord says, “During the forty years that I led you through the wilderness, your clothes did not wear out, nor did the sandals on your feet.”

            Second, one of the things I’ve tried to highlight here and in Bible classes is that in its own historical context the Old Testament is downright progressive, especially in regard to protections for foreigners, the underprivileged, orphans, and women in general. Chapter 27 has just such a case: there is provision for women to inherit land. Sure, it’s not absolute; yes, the land should usually end up with a man. But again, in its context this is a step forward for women!

            Finally, the succession is planned for: Joshua will succeed Moses as leader of Israel. In terms of overall biblical theology, this one is interesting. I’ve mentioned before that Moses was a type of Christ, a foreshadowing, especially in regards to the way he interceded for the people. Moses was the type, the prefiguring, but Jesus is the antitype, the fulfillment, the ultimate savior. Because of his sin, Moses cannot finish the job; Joshua will have to lead them into the promised land. But, do you know what the Greek form of the name Joshua is? Jesus! Jesus can and does finish the job and He leads us into the ultimate promised land, the new creation.