2008.02.27. Leadership in Christ. Num 27.16-20

Num 27:16 "Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation
Num 27:17 who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the LORD may not be as sheep that have no shepherd."
Num 27:18 So the LORD said to Moses, "Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him.
Num 27:19 Make him stand before Eleazar the priest and all the congregation, and you shall commission him in their sight.
Num 27:20 You shall invest him with some of your authority, that all the congregation of the people of Israel may obey.
Moses has just been reminded of his past sin and instead of just being like watev, let them deal with it. Instead Moses asks God to provide a leader for them.

It's not clear what process that Moses went through, because at this point it is probably only going to be Joshua or Caleb. And maybe even Moses has his idea of who he thinks should take over his position, but yet he still inquires of the Lord. The Lord makes it clear that it is to be Joshua. And instructs Moses to lay his hands on Joshua and invest his authority, so that all the congregation of the people of Israel may obey.

This transfer of leadership is an important process, not just to God but for the nation of Israel. For they need a leader a shepherd they can follow to live according to God's laws and receive His blessings.

This transfer of leadership was bestowed upon Jesus for He is the ultimate shepherd. All authority has been given unto Him, so that we may obey and live under the blessings of God.

But it is also true that Jesus has given us all authority to act on His behalf. We have all been appointed by Christ to lead. We all have the ability to lead others to the promises of God and to be blessed through life in His son Jesus Christ.

Father, help me to fully realize the authority you have bestowed upon me and help me to show others their leadership role in Christ upon coming into relationship with Him. Amen.