THE DOCTRINE OF BALAAM. Numbers 25 If we only read the earlier chapters of Numbers, we might think Balaam was a pretty good fellow, even though he was like many others—he liked money. But as we continue reading the book and other parts of scripture, we learn what Balaam was really like. First impressions aren't always enough to make wise judgments. Someone can seem godly, friendly, and likable when we first meet them. However, by listening to how a person reads and explains scripture and by observing their attitude toward God's word, we can get a clearer understanding of their sincerity.
When we read what people write in a book, we need to ensure we truly understand who they are and what they believe before focusing on the message they deliver. We cannot get a clear picture of a person solely from facial expressions or the first or second conversation. What results have come from their teaching? How have others been helped or hindered by their influence? Are the things they teach and the advice they give creating lasting and positive effects? Has their influence strengthened or weakened God's people? "Lay hands suddenly on no man" means not jumping to conclusions too quickly. Not everyone who has clearly articulated a sermon or passed on information can be trusted.
The spirit of apostasy can start when someone becomes unhappy with what they hear or what is taught, even if it is biblically correct. Usually, hidden motives are involved in undermining the truth that has been taught. When that happens, the person who intentionally turns away from the truth often tries to get others to agree with them and follow the new direction they push. It can happen anywhere God's truth is taught and practiced. Often, it comes from people who move into an area from somewhere else where they are unhappy. With smooth words and a friendly attitude, they draw people to themselves. Before long, they will have formed friendships and a following, especially if they hold a position of some importance in the secular world.
It is crucial for leaders among God's people to remember that it is their duty to "Take heed therefore unto yourselves and to all the flock." When signs of discontent and calls for change arise, investigate the causes or the sources of these feelings to determine if there is any justification for planting seeds of apostasy. When individuals consciously abandon what they have known to be the truth and even cling to it, action must be taken to halt this shift away from the revealed truth. Failure of leaders to respond biblically in such situations makes them responsible, and they will face serious consequences.
Blatant defiance and disregard for those who have demonstrated their faithfulness through consistent lives and service, and for those who challenge the practices of an assembly, are clear signs of the spirit of apostasy. It is impossible for us to identify who is an apostate because only God knows the heart of each person. However, extreme disregard for the godly and the depreciation of biblical practices and God's Word indicate the danger of apostasy among God's people.
This entire chapter in Numbers illustrates the danger that can come to any congregation. First Corinthians chapter ten, verses six through eight, specifically shows us that this happened to God's people in the past as examples for us, and it can happen today. Self-centered confidence, the influence of the world's religions, popular opinion, and dissatisfaction with how things are among God's people led them to idolatry. Idolatry caused them to go beyond just eating and drinking in worldly religious practices to engaging in immoral "play" and experiencing moral and spiritual decline, as men became morally weak when they should have been spiritually strong.
Moral standards given by God have not changed, whether through laws enacted by governments or the passage of time. God's standards have been clearly stated, along with the consequences of ignoring them. A covenant has been established with God's people, and when that covenant is disregarded and the consequences are not faced, death results. There is no alternative to dealing with apostates but death.
The Israelites had reached the border of the promised land when they again demonstrated their unfaithfulness to God. The idolatrous worship of Baalpeor and the associated immoral sexual conduct caused those who had been dedicated to God for forty years to commit terrible acts of moral sin. They had been physically separated unto God, but not in their hearts.
This was not only spiritual adultery and moral sin, but it also challenged the authority of the Lord God of Israel. He had delivered them from Egypt, provided for their needs for forty years, and brought them to the edge of the promised land. Yet, they started to engage in the Baal worship they were supposed to eliminate from Canaan before they even arrived.
The only way to prevent such distortion of righteousness and holiness that God intended was to use the strongest form of justice—death. The arrogance and rebellion of Zimri and his Midianite lover, Kozbi, prompted Phinehas to take urgent, decisive, and immediate action. Both Zimri and Kozbi came from prominent families in their tribes, so this was no secret affair. This was a direct challenge to God's authority. Phinehas’ zeal for God sharply contrasted with his uncles, Nadab and Abihu, who viewed divine holiness casually.
Disrespect for God, His ways, Word, and will has lasting effects if not judged and forsaken. The deaths of Zimri and Kozbi, along with 24,000 others, would not be easily forgotten by the Israelites. Conversely, God gave the covenant of peace to Phinehas and his descendants forever because of his dedication to righteousness. Psalm 106:30-31 reminded the Israelites that from then on, those who honor God will be honored.
That entire event resulted from the doctrine of Balaam. The seduction of Israel by the immorality associated with the worship of Baal was a persistent problem in the nation, which later caused them to be scattered. The same issue exists today in Christendom when the blending of scripture's teachings with human ideas creates confusion, leading to sin. There is very little difference between many who claim to be Christians and those whose god is pleasure and sin. The word of God remains firm in stark contrast to the ways of the world and the “modern smooth cross” of religion.
Those who lead God's people need to be able to interpret His mind so that the doctrine of Balaam—mixing God's people with the world's idolatry—does not become a reality. When the doctrine of Balaam causes God's people to become discontent and desire to tolerate the idolatry practiced in the name of God, we must act swiftly and precisely on God's Word to prevent the spread of false teaching and practices. Twenty-four thousand people died because of the actions of a few. The entire congregation fell to their knees before God. There is no substitute for faithful obedience; apostasy cannot be redeemed by sacrifice.
When one Israelite acted openly in defiance of God's commands, all the people's tears meant nothing. There are times when action is necessary. Delaying what must be done out of fear of offending others is really ignoring God's will. Phinehas knew what was required and did it, even though it must have been very difficult. His anger was justified, and when anger is directed against sin, it should not be delayed.
When a principle of God is being violated or the rights of God's people need defending, we must respond with controlled and holy anger. Peevish or petty anger is not the same as righteous anger against sin. The consequences of Balaam's doctrine led to the death of many people and sparked the challenges Israel faced against the Midianites and Moabites, who had promoted this apostasy. It is wise to learn from and remember the outcome of compromising with the ways and religious practices of the world.