Caleb: A Man Apart

Caleb: A Man Apart Numbers 14

Introduction and Context:

1. Two years after the exodus, the people are set to enter the promised land, Numbers 12:16
2. It is determined to be prudent to send some spies ahead, Numbers 13:1-3
3. There will be one man selected from each tribe, Numbers 13:4-16
4. The mission is described and given by Moses, Numbers 13:17-20
5. After forty days, the spies (ten of the twelve) give a bad report, Numbers 13:21-33

There is much for us to learn from this account, I Corinthians 10:6

1. We should consider the unbelief and rebellion of the people against God, Numbers 14:1-4
2. The attempts of Moses, Aaron and Caleb to quiet the people, Numbers 14:5-10
3. God judgment announced, Numbers 14:11, 12, 20-23
4. Moses' intercessory prayer, Numbers 14:13-17
5. The promise made to Caleb, Numbers 14:24

Our focus will be upon Caleb and his character.

I. He Possessed a Different “spirit”
A. His dominant character was different from the other spies…

1. A willing devoted obedience…
2. A spirit of faith and hope…Numbers 13:32-33 cf. vs. 38
3. A selfless spirit of doing all things to God's glory…
4. A constant and persevering spirit…Numbers 13:6-10

II. The Path Caleb Pursued…“He followed God fully…”
A. He had a “right spirit”, Psalm 119:32
B. He was controlled and motivated by the right rule of life…
C. He followed God with all his heart…
D. He followed God all his days…Joshua 14:10-12

III. The Distinguishing Blessings Caleb Received…
A. God's Approval “my Servant Caleb…”
B. A Glorious Reward

Application: