Untitled Sermon (7)

Looking to the Heavens: The Bronze Serpent and Our Salvation

Bible Passage: Num 21:1-9

Summary: In this passage, the Israelites face judgment from God due to their sin, resulting in many being bitten by poisonous snakes. In their despair, they cry out for help, and God instructs Moses to make a bronze serpent to heal those who look upon it, foreshadowing the ultimate healing through Jesus Christ.

Application: This passage reminds us that, in times of trouble and sin, we must turn our eyes to Christ for healing and salvation. Teens often face challenges and temptations; understanding how faith in Jesus can bring healing is crucial.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that amidst sin and judgment, God's grace offers a way out. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the bronze serpent, we are healed through faith in Jesus, who was lifted up for our salvation.

How this passage could point to Christ: The bronze serpent is a clear foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who explained to Nicodemus that just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up (John 3:14-15).

Big Idea: In times of struggle and sin, looking to Jesus brings healing and hope.

Recommended Study: Consider examining the typology of the bronze serpent and its fulfillment in Christ, particularly in the context of John 3:14-15. Utilize Logos to explore commentaries that delve into the significance of the phrase 'lifted up' and its implications for understanding the crucifixion. Investigate any cultural or historical background regarding serpents in ancient Israel to enhance audience engagement.

1. Israel's Initial Insecurity

Numbers 21:1–3 “When the Canaanite, the king of Arad, who lived in the Negeb, heard that Israel was coming by the way of Atharim, he fought against Israel, and took some of them captive. And Israel vowed a vow to the Lord and said, “If you will indeed give this people into my hand, then I will devote their cities to destruction.” And the Lord heeded the voice of Israel and gave over the Canaanites, and they devoted them and their cities to destruction. So the name of the place was called Hormah.”

You could start by acknowledging the Israelites' initial victory and dedication to God, followed by their quick descent into doubt and rebellion. This shift illustrates how easy it is, even for us, to fall into despair when tested. Encourage your listeners to recognize when they stray from faithfulness and how crucial it is to return to God’s promises. Particularly for teens, this segment can highlight the necessity of sticking to one's beliefs amidst peer pressures.

2. Snakebite of Sin

Numbers 21:4–6 “From Mount Hor they set out by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom. And the people became impatient on the way. And the people spoke against God and against Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we loathe this worthless food.” Then the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many people of Israel died.”

Remind the audience that the Israelites, like we often do, complained in their trials, resulting in severe consequences. The fiery serpents represent the dangers of sin that arise from a lack of faith. Encourage teens to see how their own complaints or missteps can lead them into problematic situations. Highlight the importance of staying grounded in faith, instead of allowing hardship to lead to bitterness.

3. Serpent Solution of Salvation

Numbers 21:7–9 “And the people came to Moses and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord and against you. Pray to the Lord, that he take away the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people. And the Lord said to Moses, “Make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole, and everyone who is bitten, when he sees it, shall live.” So Moses made a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. And if a serpent bit anyone, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.”

Perhaps you can illustrate how, in their desperation, the Israelites acknowledged their sin and sought help from Moses, leading to God’s provision of healing through the bronze serpent. Emphasize that acknowledging our need for Jesus is the first step to healing. For teens, it's vital to understand that openly asking for help and looking to Jesus can bring the necessary spiritual and emotional healing.