In distributing these tribes, the general rule of equity is prescribed; that to many should be given
more, and to fewer less. Though it seems left to the prudence of their prince, the matter at last must
be settled by the providence of God, with which all must be satisfied.
Verses 57–62
Levi was God's tribe; therefore it was not numbered with the rest, but alone. It came not under
the sentence, that none of them should enter Canaan excepting Caleb and Joshua.
Verses 63–65
The execution of the sentence passed on the murmurers, chap. 14:29, is observable. There was
not one man numbered now, who was numbered then, but Caleb and Joshua. Here appeared the
righteousness of God, and his faithfulness to his threatenings. Especially observe the truth of God,
in performing his promise to Caleb and Joshua. Death makes awful havoc of the human species,
and causes surprising changes in families and nations; yet all is appointed in perfect wisdom, justice,
and truth, by the Lord himself. This should stir us up to think upon the hateful nature of sin, the
cause of all these devastations. We should renew our repentance, seek forgiveness, value the
salvation of Christ, remember how frail we are, prepare for the summons of death, and fill up our
days in serving our generation according to the will of God.
Chapter 27
Chapter Outline
The daughters of Zelophehad apply for an (1–11)
inheritance, The law of inheritances.
Moses warned of his death. (12–14)
Joshua appointed to succeed Moses. (15–23)Verses 1–11
The five daughters of Zelophehad considered themselves as left destitute, having neither father
nor brother to inherit any land. Their believing expectation that the word of the Lord would be
performed in due season, and their desire of an interest in the promised inheritance; and the modest,
candid manner in which they asked, without secret murmurs or discontents, are a good example.
They ask for a possession in the land of Canaan. Herein they discovered, 1. Strong faith in the
power and promise of God, concerning the giving of the land of Canaan to Israel. 2. And earnest
desire of a place and name in the land of promise, which was a type of heaven. 3. Respect and
honour for their father, whose name was dear to them now he was gone. He never had done any
thing that might bar his children's claim. It is a comfort to parents when they come to die, if though
they have smarted for their own sin, yet they are not conscious of any of those iniquities which