Page 28 - Biblical Backgrounds student textbook

3. Why did the people not enter the land when they arrived the first time?

4. How did God use the time in the wilderness to prepare His people?

5. How does the wilderness generation give a foundation for Christians as we live by faith seeking the
New Jerusalem promised by God?

6. When does the wandering come to an end?

7. What is the traditional route of the exodus through Sinai?

3.5 Let’s Personalize this lesson…

Take the map of Sinai in this section and try to trace the wilderness wandering as you read
though Numbers 33. Keep in mind that we don’t know the exact location of all of the places
mentioned. Then answer this question: Since we know God does everything with a purpose,
even in disciplining disobedience, what was God teaching Israel during the 40 years? Try to
think of as many likely possibilities as you can. An example could be this: Is it possible God
used the 40 years to prepare the land of Canaan to be conquered? Would God have used this time to
allow the recently destroyed Egyptian armies control on the travel routes to weaken over that time?
Also ask spiritual questions about it. What did God teach Israel about faith during the wilderness
wandering? Why did God use a raised serpent as the symbol of salvation from death if the Israelites
were bitten by a snake?

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