Numbers 12:1-16: Why Is Little Brother Such a Big Deal?

The grumbling in Israel spreads all the way to the leadership as Miriam and Aaron complain that their little brother isn't the only one through whom the LORD speaks. The LORD comes quickly to remind these two that Moses is, in fact, the LORD's chosen prophet among them. With faithful Moses, the LORD speaks not simply in visions but mouth-to-mouth. When Miriam and Aaron speak against Moses, therefore, they speak not only against their brother, but against the LORD. For this grumbling, Miriam is made unclean by a skin disease. Moses shows his meekness by interceding even for his jealous sister; in this, Moses' ministry foreshadows the work of Christ. After seven days, Miriam is cleansed according to the LORD's Word, and Israel's journey toward the Promised Land continues.  Rev. Dustin Beck, pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 12:1-16.  "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God’s promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.