A Benediction of Blessing for 2023

January 1, 2023

Numbers 6:24-26

Study Questions

1. What is the significance of giving someone a ‘blessing’? Identify various examples in the Old Testament of giving and receiving a blessing. In Numbers 6:22-27, why did the Lord call on Moses and Aaron to give this blessing?

2. How did Jesus give His blessing while on the earth? See Mark 10:14-16 and Luke 24:50-51. Can you think of other passages in which Jesus gave His blessing?

3. Identify the 3-year poetic structure of this blessing. What is the meaning behind each statement? Are they separate blessings or are they interconnected? Why/how?

4. Are there conditions to receiving God’s blessing? Explain.

5. According to Numbers 6:24-26, what are the various benefits of receiving God’s blessing?

6. Is this passage only for Israel or can believers under the New Covenant claim the same? Consider Ephesians 1:3, 2 Corinthians 6:11-18, and Genesis 12:1-3.

7. How has God promised to keep you? See also Psalm 121:3-5, John 17:11, and Psalm 91:1-2.

8. Describe the difference between the phrases, “The Lord make His face shine upon you” (v.25) and “The Lord turn His face toward you” (v.26). (NIV)

9. Is there a difference between God’s blessing and man’s success? Explain. How do you understand God’s blessing in light of Matthew 7:7-12?

10. Describe the uniqueness of God’s giving of grace (v.25) and giving of peace (v.26).

11. Is it possible that this blessing represents the Trinity? Why/why not?

12. What comfort do you find in this covenant blessing? As we conclude each worship service with this ‘benediction of blessing’, how will it encourage you for 2023?