AM Bible Study Group; March 3, 2010

Numbers 2:1-34

Theme: This chapter describes the arrangement of the camps of the tribes of Israel..

After the leadership of the different tribes had been established (see chapter 1), the command went forth from God to set the camps in order. To really appreciate the wisdom of God in the arrangements of these camps, read Numbers 10:11-28 and see how the camps marched out. When you do, you discover how God so arranged the armies of His people that every provision was made for the protection of the tabernacle as the people marched, and for its orderly construction when they set-up camp.

I. THE COMMAND TO CAMP IN ORDER (vv. 1-2).

The chapter begins with the command from God, through Moses and Aaron, to set the armies of Israel up in orderly camps, with each tribe “by his own standard, beside the emblems of his father’s house”. What these banners looked like isn’t told to us; but they must have, somehow, clearly identified each tribe. What a sight they must have been—the armies of Israel spread across the land with their banners above them! Note too that the camps were to be some distance from the tabernacle of meeting. When examine the arrangement, you see that, in all the activities of the people—whether camping or marching—the worship of God was kept in the center of it all (see Psalm 46:4-5).

II. THE ARRANGEMENT OF THE CAMPS (vv. 3-31; see attached diagram).

The description of the camps is given in an orderly fashion. The leaders of the people match those given in 1:5-15; and the numbers of the soldiers match those given of the tribes in 1:22-43. Note that the Levites are not numbered. Their number is taken in chapter 3. But the point is made that they rest in the center of all the other camps. Note the four-square arrangement (see Ezekiel 48:20; Revelation 21:16).

III. THE CONSTITUTION OF THE CAMPS (vv. 32-33).

We’re told that these are those who were numbered in accordance with God’s command in chapter 1. The total given here matches that given in 1:46.

IV. THE OBEDIENCE TO THE COMMAND (v. 34).

The observation is made at the end of this chapter that the children of Israel arranged themselves in accordance with God’s command. Both chapters 1 and 2 end with obedience.

* * * * * * * * * *

The arrangement of the people in this manner was not just for the benefit of travel, but also for defense. The tabernacle—as well as the people—were thus protected during their journey to the promised land. This kept each family in a God-appointed position in relation to the others—so that there was no rivalry or jealousy among them. And they were thus kept subject to the Lord and loyal to one-another’s call.

Note from this that our God is a God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40; 15:23).