The Prophecy of Balaam

INTRODUCTION: This lesson covers the final prophecy given as a result of the three attempts by Balak to get Balaam to curse Israel. Each attempt began with a sacrifice, followed by God’s word to Balaam, and closing with Balak’s reaction to the message.

CONCLUSION: Because of the incident with the ass, Balaam knew better than to cross God and curse Israel in order to please Balak. However, he is by no means an example of a godly prophet. He was a Gentile soothsayer who made money from his sayings. He was motivated by money to the end and his end was death by the sword. However, God’s word will have the victory in the end. We can oppose the Lord and hurt ourselves and others or we can submit to Him and be part of His plan. Which are you going to do?

POINT: The main theme of the lesson
 In spite of all the corruption and rebellion involving Balaam, God used him to speak wondrous prophecies of the Lord Jesus Christ. The most important thing was that God was to be glorified. It would have been better had Balaam’s message been the outward testimony of a man with higher character.

STORY: A synopsis of the lesson
 The four prophesies of Balaam were very important. They were given by a Gentile soothsayer whose knowledge of the true God was limited, at best. However, God used him and Balaam gave wonderful truths. Each time he grew in confidence that the Lord would speak to him. In each prophecy Israel was blessed, but the focus of each one was different. Balak’s reaction also grew increasingly desperate until he threatened Balaam and told him to leave. In the end, Balaam gave Balak the needed help (Revelation 2:14).