him; we may be sure that he looks upon us as accepted in Christ, that our sins are all pardoned. Oh
the wonders of providence and grace, the wonders of redeeming love, of pardoning mercy, of the
new-creating Spirit! Balak had no hope of ruining Israel, and Balaam showed that he had more
reason to fear being ruined by them. Since Balaam cannot say what he would have him, Balak
wished him to say nothing. But though there are many devices in man's heart, God's counsels shall
stand. Yet they resolve to make another attempt, though they had no promise on which to build
their hopes. Let us, who have a promise that the vision at the end shall speak and not lie, continue
earnest in prayer, Lu 18:1.
Chapter 24
Chapter Outline
Balaam, leaving divinations, prophesies the (1–9)
happiness of Israel.
Balak dismisses Balaam in anger. (10–14)
Balaam's prophecies. (15–25)Verses 1–9
Now Balaam spake not his own sense, but the language of the Spirit that came upon him. Many
have their eyes open who have not their hearts open; are enlightened, but not sanctified. That
knowledge which puffs men up with pride, will but serve to light them to hell, whither many go
with their eyes open. The blessing is nearly the same as those given before. He admires in Israel,
their beauty. The righteous, doubtless, is more excellent than his neighbour. Their fruitfulness and
increase. Their honour and advancement. Their power and victory. He looks back upon what had
been done for them. Their power and victory. He looks back upon what had been done for them.
Their courage and security. The righteous are bold as a lion, not when assaulting others, but when
at rest, because God maketh them to dwell in safety. Their influence upon their neighbours. God
takes what is done to them, whether good or evil, as done to himself. (Nu 24:10-14)
Verses 10–14
This vain attempt to curse Israel is ended. Balak broke out into a rage against Balaam, and
expressed great vexation. Balaam has a very full excuse; God restrained him from saying what he
would have said, and constrained him to say what he would not have uttered.
Verses 15–25
Under the powerful influence of the Spirit of prophecy, Balaam foretold the future prosperity
and extensive dominion of Israel. Balaam boasts that his eyes are open. The prophets were in old
times called seers. He had heard the words of God, which many do who neither heed them, nor