Exodus 30:11-16 - Homilies By J. Urquhart

The numbering of Israel and their ransom.

I. THE NUMBERING OF THE PEOPLE , AN EMBLEM OF THE JUDGMENT . God's claims were brought home to them; their unworthiness was contrasted with the place assigned to them as the people whom God had visited with his light and salvation. When we remember that we are the Lord's, and the light of that just claim is shed upon our life, it is to our shame and confusion. But life will be read at last in this very light!

II. THE ATONEMENT WHICH SHIELDS US .

1 . It is a ransom for the life: "that there be no plague among them when thou numberest them." God's wrath will not smite if this be provided.

2 . it must be given from one's own in that judgment day. Christ to avail us then must have been made ours by faith. It must be Christ in us.

3 . It is required from all. None are guiltless.

4 . The same is demanded from each. All alike are in themselves lost and under God's wrath.

5 . The atonement is for the service of the tabernacle. The changed life of God's people through the indwelling of Christ is for God's service now, and the manifestation of his glory hereafter.— U .