Moses was a man who had a unique relationship with God that was different than any other person in the Bible (Deuteronomy 34:10-12). Chosen by God to lead the nation of Israel; a nation that was continually rebellious against the God who intervened on their behalf with signs and wonders (Numbers 14, v. 22). Moses carried with him a God-given authority to speak on His behalf and guide the nation.
Anytime you carry authority, it will be challenged by people who are envious, jealous, or by those who want to test the authenticity of the leadership call. Moses had proven his leadership, however, in Numbers 12 his leadership is challenged by his siblings, Miriam and Aaron (v. 1). They challenged Moses because “he married a Cushite woman”. The challenge from Miriam and Aaron was “either because he had married the woman and therefore in their eyes destroyed his credibility, or because they were disillusioned with his leadership for other reasons and used the marriage as an excuse”.¹
Men of God are not above being questioned, however, motive and method are important. In this case, Miriam and Aaron question Moses’ authority to be the sole speaker for God to the nation of Israel. This got God’s attention (v. 2). God came to the defense of Moses after summoning him, Miriam, and Aaron from the tent of meeting and said this:
Listen to my words: “When there is a prophet among you, I, the Lord, reveal myself to them in visions, I speak to them in dreams. But this is not true of my servant Moses; he is faithful in all my house. With him I speak face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the Lord. Why then were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?” Numbers 12:6-8, NIV
Here are some thoughts about Moses being defended by God in Numbers 12:
1. God’s defense validated Moses’ authority to speak on His behalf (v. 8).
2. The relationship between God and Moses was unique and more intimate than with the prophets (v.6-8).
3. Moses’ relationship with God was based on humility and faithfulness to the nation of Israel (v. 3,7).
Miriam was jealous and punished for bringing Aaron along with her rebellion to the call and authority of God placed upon Moses. Don’t compare or be jealous. Cultivate your relationship with God and become content with the purpose that God has given you. God will give you the authority to carry out your call…and expect to be challenged.
¹ Dallas Seminary Faculty. The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures by Dallas Seminary Faculty. Edited by John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck. David C Cook, 1985.
