Numbers 2-3 & Acts 14

As Israel now plans to move on from Mt. Sinai, an order must be created. Chapters 2 and 3 in Numbers provides us with a description of who camps where and in what order the tribes are placed when they are moving. In general, an inner ring of Levites surrounds the Tent of Presence, with each Levite tribe having responsibility for some portion of the tent or a rite related to the tent. Outside of this ring of Levites, we have the twelve tribes of Israel, three to a side.

Chapter 2 outlines the formation of the tribes of Israel. It is of note to see that the tribe of Judah takes up the place of honor in that it will camp to the east of the Tabernacle and will also lead the procession when journeying.

Chapter 3 does the same with the sons of Levi, Aaron and Moses are both members of the tribe. While Aaron and Moses and their families take up the position in front of the Tabernacle, the other sons of Levi take up their positions around the Tent. God lays claim to the sons of Levi, they belong to God. Therefore, they must be redeemed and paid for by the "firstborn" of Israel. Even the livestock of the Levites must be redeemed. In other words, in the same way that vows are redeemed, the Levites are to be redeemed.

As Israel begins to organize into a new community, notice how tribes are beginning to take shape in the structure. Israel, for a good portion of its history, will be a loose confederation of tribes, acting jointly when it serves their purposes. Also note that they are lead by a prophet, not by a king or military leader.

Acts 14

The 14th chapter illustrates the tension that will follow Paul wherever he goes. As he proclaims the Gospel, he creates a following which then concerns the established Jewish community and the establishment status quo. Frequently he is driven out of town by these forces, or in other communities arrested for stirring up the population.

Not only does proclaim the Good News but he demonstrates the power of the Gospel through healings. In this chapter his actions are seen as the work of the old gods, but this provides an opportunity for Paul to offer a new understanding of God. However, people are fickle about their gods. One moment Paul is revered, while the next the same people are trying to stone him. Ah the joy of ministry.

Paul and Barnabas' mission and success will lead us into the next chapter. How will Gentiles and Jews co-exist in this new community.