Numbers 23:1-4

Balak and Balaam offered on every altar.

The sacrifice of Balak and Balaam

I. Objectively this sacrifice was as perfect as the offerers could make it. Clearly they aimed at presenting a perfect offering. This is exhibited--

1. In the number of offerings. Seven was regarded as a sacred and perfect number.

2. In the victims offered. The most valuable that were used for sacrifices.

3. In the kind of offerings. They were burnt-offerings, which were presented without any reserve, being entirely consumed in honour of the Divine Being.

II. Subjectively this sacrifice was very imperfect, and even sinful. In the sentiments and motives of the offerers there was much that was erroneous and evil.

1. The sacrifice was offered with an admixture of faith and superstition.

2. The sacrifice was offered under the impression that the offering was meritorious on the part of the offerers, and placed God under an obligation to them.

3. The sacrifice was offered as a means to induce God to change His mind.

4. The sacrifice was offered with a view of obtaining permission and power to curse the people of God.

Learn:

1. That the true value of sacrifice is to be looked for not in the quantity or quality of the offering, but in the spirit of the offerer.

2. Trusting in Christ Jesus for acceptance, let us present ourselves to God. “God must be worshipped with our best. A man’s best is himself; and to sacrifice this is the true sacrifice.”

3. He who has truly given himself to God will keep back nothing from Him. (W. Jones.)