Chapter 24 of Numbers contains the story of Balaam prophesying blessings to Balak for the third time, and then prophesying the future of Israel through the fourth prophecy. The main contents of this chapter are as follows:
1. Balaam’s third prophecy (24:1-9)
Verses 1-2: Balaam waits to see what message God will give him at the place prepared by Balak for sacrifice. Balaam no longer tells fortunes, but when the Spirit of God comes upon him, he is inspired and begins to prophesy.
Verses 3-9: Balaam makes his third prophecy to the Israelites. In the prophecy, Balaam sings that Israel's future will be bright and prosperous. It is said that Israel will “dwell in good cities and good dwellings” and will prosper like a river full of water. It also prophesies that they are more powerful than other nations and that no curse will reach them because God has blessed them.
2. Balak’s anger (24:10-11)
Verses 10-11: When Balak hears Balaam’s third prophecy, he becomes very angry. He calls Balaam to him and asks him to curse his enemies, but when Balaam continues to say blessings, he becomes angry and tries to send Balaam away. Balak declares that he will not even give Balaam the reward he wanted.
3. Balaam’s fourth prophecy (24:12-25)
Verses 12-13: Balaam told Balak from the beginning that he could only preach the word of God, and once again explains that he cannot speak anything that God does not tell him to say.
Verse 14: Balaam says he will make one final prophecy about what will happen to the Israelites in the future.
Verses 15-19: Balaam's fourth prophecy is about the Messiah and Israel's victory. He prophesies that “a star will come out of Jacob, and a scepter will rise out of Israel” and defeat all of Israel’s enemies. This star and scepter symbolize the Messiah and prophesy the salvation and victory of Israel.
Verses 20-24: Balaam prophesies the destruction of various nations, including the Amalekites and Kenites. Amalek will be destroyed, and the Kenites will be destroyed. It also contains a prophecy that Kitim's ships will press Asru and Heber.
Verse 25: Balaam said goodbye to Balak, and each went his way.
conclusion
Chapter 24 of Numbers centers on Balaam being moved by the Spirit of God and blessing Israel. Balaam follows God's command and blesses Israel despite Balak's request to curse him. Balaam also prophesies the coming of the Messiah and Israel's ultimate victory. Balaam's prophecy shows that God's plan transcends human intentions and desires and that God's blessings are sure to come true for His people.