Balaam: A Study in Compromise
Introduction:
Balaam, a figure shrouded in ambiguity, presents a complex portrait of a prophet whose life was marked by both divine encounters and moral failings. This study will examine Balaam's journey, highlighting his prophetic abilities, his susceptibility to greed, and the lasting impact of his counsel.
1. General References: Balaam's Initial Encounters
• Numbers 22:5: "So he sent messengers to Balaam son of Beor, who was at Pethor, near the Euphrates River, in his native land. Balak said: ‘A people has come out of Egypt; they cover the face of the land and have settled next to me.’" This verse establishes the context: Balak, king of Moab, seeks Balaam's services to curse the Israelites.
• Numbers 22:12: "But God said to Balaam, ‘You must not put a curse on those people, because they are blessed.’" God directly forbids Balaam from cursing Israel, revealing God's protective hand over his people.
• Numbers 22:21: "Balaam got up in the morning, saddled his donkey and went with the Moabite officials." Despite God's clear instruction, Balaam's actions reveal a willingness to proceed, indicating a potential conflict of interest.
• Numbers 22:36: "When Balak heard that Balaam was coming, he went out to meet him at a Moabite town on the Arnon border, at the edge of his territory." This meeting sets the stage for the ongoing tension between Balak's desires and God's commands.
• Numbers 31:8: "Among those killed were the five kings of Midian—Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur and Reba—and Balaam son of Beor was also killed with them." This verse records Balaam's death, highlighting his association with the enemies of Israel.
• Numbers 31:16: "They were the very ones who followed Balaam’s advice and enticed the Israelites to be unfaithful to the Lord in the Peor incident, so that a plague struck the Lord’s people." This passage reveals Balaam's role as a bad counselor, directly linked to Israel's sin and subsequent judgment.
• Micah 6:5: "My people, remember what Balak king of Moab plotted and what Balaam son of Beor answered. Remember your journey from Shittim to Gilgal, that you may know the righteous acts of the Lord." Micah uses Balaam's story to remind Israel of God's faithfulness and their own history.
• 2 Peter 2:15: "They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Beor, who loved the wages of wickedness." Peter condemns those who follow Balaam's example, highlighting his love for money and his willingness to compromise his integrity.
2. The “Hireling Prophet”: A Brief Life Famous
• Numbers 22:5, 6: Balaam's reputation as a prophet was widespread, making him a sought-after figure. Balak believed Balaam's curses held power.
• Numbers 22:12-22: Balaam's initial obedience to God's command is quickly undermined by his willingness to entertain Balak's offers. His obstinacy is revealed as he repeatedly seeks permission to proceed, even after God's clear denial.
• Numbers 22:33: The donkey's intervention saves Balaam from the angel of the Lord, revealing Balaam's spiritual blindness and the animal's greater perception.
• Numbers 23 and 24: Balaam's prophecies are remarkable, delivered with eloquence and accuracy. Yet, he attempts to manipulate the divine plan, seeking a way to curse Israel despite God's blessing. This double-mindedness reveals a conflict between his prophetic gifts and his personal desires.
• Numbers 24:10: Balaam's mission ends in failure, as he is sent back to his own land, unable to curse Israel.
• Numbers 31:16: Balaam's most damaging legacy is his counsel to Balak, which led to Israel's involvement in idolatry and sexual immorality.
• 2 Peter 2:15: Peter's condemnation highlights Balaam's covetousness, emphasizing the corrupting influence of greed.
Additional References:
• Deuteronomy 23:4: This passage prohibits Ammonites and Moabites from entering the assembly of the Lord, likely due to their actions involving Balaam.
• Joshua 13:22: Balaam is identified as a soothsayer killed by the Israelites.
• Joshua 24:9: This verse recounts Balak's attempt to hire Balaam to curse Israel.
• Nehemiah 13:2: Nehemiah reiterates the prohibition against Ammonites and Moabites, referencing their plot with Balaam.
• Jude 1:11: Jude warns against those who follow "Balaam’s error," linking his actions to apostasy.
• Revelation 2:14: Jesus condemns the church at Pergamum for holding to "Balaam’s teaching," which led to idolatry and immorality.
- Preaching on Aquila and Priscilla: A Model of Godly Partnership
- Preaching on Andrew, the Apostle: The Quiet Influence
- Preaching on Amalek: A Persistent Adversary of Israel
Conclusion:
Balaam's story serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of compromise and the corrupting influence of greed. His prophetic gifts were overshadowed by his willingness to prioritize personal gain over obedience to God. Balaam's legacy reminds us that true faithfulness requires unwavering commitment to God's will, even in the face of temptation. He highlights the dangers of being double minded, and attempting to use Gods gifts for personal gain.
