This AI transcript paraphrases the original sermon for readability. Further updates to the transcript will be made in due course. 

01:46

Growing up, I was hooked on TV, watching all kinds of shows from morning to night—Chinese, English, Indian, you name it. But one of my favorites was Kung Fu shows, especially the ones from Hong Kong. I was amazed by the martial artists performing Qing Gong, or the ability to levitate and jump through the air, as well as the characters who could shoot powers from their palms. These abilities were fascinating to me.

Another thing I noticed in old Chinese Kung Fu shows was the concept of formations. When martial artists faced powerful enemies, they would often set up elaborate formations to counter attacks. These formations were not random, but strategic, and could even be used in war.

I bring up the idea of formations because we see something similar in the book of Numbers, chapters 1 to 4. Israel is not going to be scattered randomly; God commands them to be organized in a specific formation. While we might not know exactly what it looked like, the formation is described in these chapters, and it serves to convey important spiritual truths for us today.

Chapter 1 of Numbers begins with a census—a registration of people, much like a national service registry. God instructs Moses to count the men aged 20 and above who are fit for battle. This census includes the 12 tribes of Israel, descendants of Jacob's 12 sons. However, the tribe of Levi is excluded from the count because they are set apart for priestly duties and to care for the tabernacle, God’s dwelling place. Instead of Levi, Joseph’s two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, are counted, keeping the total number of tribes at 12.

The census results show that there are 603,550 men fit for battle, and when you include women and children, the population of Israel could be around 2 to 3 million people.

This is significant because it highlights God's blessings on Jacob and his descendants. In Genesis 46, just 215 years before this moment, Jacob's entire household numbered only 70 people. If Jacob were to migrate to Singapore, he alone could solve the country's aging population problem, as his family grew from 70 to 3 million people in just over two centuries. This rapid growth is a testament to God's favor on Jacob's descendants.

As we continue, we see that Judah emerges as the most populous tribe, which may point to its future prominence. Jesus, the "Lion of Judah," will come from this tribe many years later. Another notable tribe is Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph. Their larger numbers may fulfill the prophecy in Genesis 49, where Joseph is described as a "fruitful bow."

In the second half of chapter one, we focus on the Levites. These Levites are responsible for the ministry at the Tabernacle, a tent-like structure where priests serve in the presence of God. The Tabernacle represents God’s special presence with Israel. The priests, including Moses and Aaron, are stationed at the east end of the Tabernacle, the main entrance. The other Levites are arranged in specific positions: the Merarites are on the north, the Gershonites on the west, and the Kohathites on the south. This arrangement protects the Israelites from trespassing and incurring God's wrath. The Levites act as security guards, ensuring the sanctity of the Tabernacle because God's holiness requires a buffer zone between Him and the people.

So, chapter one presents the first census of Israel, and in chapters two through four, we see further elaborations. Chapter two focuses on how the camp of Israel is organized, beginning with the central focus: the Tabernacle.

08:40

Around the Tabernacle, the Levites and priests are strategically positioned. The priests—Moses, Aaron, and his sons—are placed at the east, while the Levites are assigned to different directions: the Merarites are to the north, the Gershonites to the west, and the Kohathites to the south. Surrounding them are the 12 tribes of Israel, each positioned in a specific order: Judah, the most prominent tribe, is at the east; Issachar and Zebulun are with Judah to the south; Reuben, Simeon, and Gad are to the west; and Benjamin, Manasseh, and Ephraim are to the north, with Dan, Asher, and Naphtali filling the remaining space.

To make it clearer, imagine a layout with the Tabernacle at the center, surrounded by a safety margin provided by the Levites and priests. Each of the 12 tribes is arranged around the Tabernacle, and the key point here is that every tribe is to face the Tabernacle. This symbolizes Israel's constant focus on God, who is in their midst. This arrangement highlights that, no matter where they are, God remains the central focus of their lives.

As the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness, they maintained this order even when they moved. Their camp would always follow the same structure with the tribes arranged in the same order: Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Reuben, Simeon, Gad, Ephraim, Manasseh, Benjamin, Dan, Asher, and Naphtali. The ark, accompanied by Moses, Aaron, and the priests, would always be at the front, leading the way. The Levites would follow with the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings in the middle of the procession.

Chapters 1 to 4 of Numbers offer an overview and further details on this structure. Chapter 2 elaborates on the organization of the people, while chapters 3 and 4 focus on the roles and responsibilities of the priests and Levites.

In chapter 3, we learn more about the Levites' family tree. Levi, one of Jacob's sons, had three sons: Merari, Gershon, and Kohath. Kohath’s descendants are especially significant, as his son Amram is the father of Moses and Aaron. This lineage is important because Amram’s children—Moses and Aaron—play central roles in Israel’s journey and in the establishment of the priesthood.

Moses’ parents were Amram and Jochebed. Amram had three children: Aaron, Moses, and Miriam, who was their sister. In Exodus, we learn about Moses and his role in leading Israel out of Egypt. Aaron, Moses' brother, also had four sons: Nadab, Abihu, Eliezer, and Ithamar. However, Nadab and Abihu are mentioned in gray because they died after offering "strange fire" to God, as described in Leviticus, when they sinned against God. With their deaths, Aaron was left with only two surviving sons, Eliezer and Ithamar.

God designated Aaron and his sons as the priests who would handle the sacrifices and worship procedures in the Tabernacle. Only Aaron’s descendants could perform these duties. God also gave the Levites, the descendants of Levi, to assist Aaron and his sons. The Levites were tasked with helping to manage the Tabernacle's activities.

The reason God chose the Levites for this special role is tied to the events of the Exodus, specifically the tenth plague. In Egypt, God sent ten plagues to convince Pharaoh to release the Israelites. The tenth and final plague was the death of the firstborn in Egypt. God instructed the Israelites to mark their doorposts with the blood of a spotless lamb, and the angel of death would pass over those homes, sparing their firstborn. Because God saved the firstborn of Israel, He declared that all the firstborn of Israel belonged to Him.

Instead of taking all the firstborn of every family, God chose the tribe of Levi to serve Him in the Tabernacle. When the firstborn of Israel were counted, there were 22,273, while the Levites numbered 22,000. To account for the difference of 273, God instructed the people to pay five shekels for each shortfall, and that resolved the discrepancy.

As a result, the Levites—descendants of Levi, including the Gershonites, Merarites, and Kohathites—were given the responsibility to assist Aaron and his sons in the service of the Tabernacle.

The roles and responsibilities of the Levites were very specific, and there was no overlap or cross-coverage. Each group—Merarites, Gershonites, and Kohathites—had distinct duties.

The Merarites were in charge of the structural elements: the frames, pillars, bases, sockets, and cords of the Tabernacle.

The Gershonites were responsible for the softer elements: the hangings, curtains, and screens.

The Kohathites were tasked with the most sacred items: the furniture, the altar, the table, the lampstand, the golden altar, the veil, and the Ark of the Covenant.

God’s instructions were very specific, leaving no room for personal choice or imagination. Everyone had a clear role, and nothing was left to chance.

In chapter four, there is another census, focusing on Levites aged 30 to 50 who were able to serve. This chapter outlines their duties when the Tabernacle moved from one place to another, detailing how everything should be disassembled, covered with specific cloths (such as blue cloth and badger skin), and transported exactly as God commanded. This strict adherence to God’s instructions is important, as seen in the story of Uzzah in 2 Samuel 6, where someone died for touching the Ark of the Covenant improperly.

While these detailed instructions can feel overwhelming, the big picture in Numbers 1–4 is clear: God is preparing Israel for battle, and He is organizing them to ensure that their focus remains on Him. God is central to their identity and mission. He is the "bull’s eye" of the nation, and everything about Israel’s structure, organization, and focus points to God’s leadership as they prepare to enter the Promised Land and face their enemies.

The big idea in these chapters is God-centeredness. The detailed instructions and the census all contribute to a larger picture of Israel being oriented around God. Being God-centered involves God-dependence—recognizing that everything, from their organization to their future victories, depends on God’s guidance and provision.

The key takeaway for the Israelites, and for us, is that we must be entirely dependent on God if we are to enter the promised land. For the Israelites, their focus had to be on God, who was at the center of their camp and would lead them in battle. The census, the organization, and the focus on the Tabernacle all served to remind them that God was central to their mission and their victory. When they eventually faced Jericho, God demonstrated this dependence when He instructed them to march around the city. The Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence, was the focus—not the military strategy—showing that the battle was His, not theirs.

This God-dependence is also true for the church today. We are called to fulfill the Great Commission, to make disciples of all nations. But we must remember that the fulfillment of this mission does not depend on us alone. Jesus is the one who builds the church, not pastors, leaders, or members. Our responsibility is to be faithful, to preach, pray, and disciple, but ultimately, God is the one who brings about the increase, salvation, and spiritual growth.

This should free us from the stress and anxiety that can come with ministry. We don’t need to carry the burden of trying to make everything happen. Our role is to be obedient and faithful, trusting that Jesus will build His church, as He promised. Over the years, this truth has been a great comfort to me, especially when facing feelings of inadequacy or uncertainty.

In your ministry—whether in small groups, children’s ministry, or any area—serve with joy and freedom. Trust that the life change, growth, and salvation come from God, not from our efforts alone. This can help release any burdens or pressure, knowing that we are simply vessels in His work. Let’s continue to focus on doing what God asks of us and trust that He will take care of the rest.

You've beautifully illustrated the importance of God-dependence in salvation and spiritual life. Just as you recognize with your children that, though you share the gospel clearly, only God can bring about salvation, we must apply this same truth to every area of life. Our efforts, as important as they are, are never the cause of salvation or sanctification. It's God who grants the increase, sustains us in the faith, and ensures our ultimate salvation. This dependence on God is not just for the church, but for each individual Christian as well.

God’s preservation and guarding power is a theme throughout Scripture, as you rightly pointed out. Philippians 1:6 reassures us that God will complete the work He began in us. Romans 8 reminds us that God alone is the one who predestines, calls, justifies, and glorifies—no one can thwart His plan. Similarly, 1 Peter 1:5 tells us that we are guarded by God's power for the ultimate salvation, and we are reminded to persevere in faith, but it is God who ensures that we will be kept until the very end. This is comforting and humbling—it is God who keeps us, not our own strength.

In a God-centered church, we acknowledge that salvation and life change ultimately come from God. While we are called to obey and follow God's commands—just as Israel did with their detailed organization and service in the Tabernacle—we must always remember that our work is a response to God's grace and provision, not a guarantee of success or growth through our efforts alone.

Being directed by God means we align our lives with His Word. Just as Israel followed the specific commands for how to organize the camp and serve in the Tabernacle, we as the church must be faithful in carrying out God’s commands, specifically the Great Commission to make disciples, preach the gospel, and pray. This is our obedience, but it is God’s power that makes it effective.

A God-centered church is not passive but active in obedience, recognizing that our dependence on God leads to faithful action. We do not sit back, waiting for God to act alone. Rather, we step forward in obedience, trusting that God will empower us, direct us, and bring about the transformation He promises. Whether it’s in ministry, evangelism, or personal sanctification, the emphasis is always on God’s sovereignty and our dependence on His power.

So, as a God-centered church and God-centered individuals, we acknowledge that God is both the source and the sustainer of all we do. We depend on God for life change, salvation, sanctification, and ultimately, for the fulfillment of His will. At the same time, we remain obedient, faithfully carrying out His commands and trusting Him to lead us.

It’s easy to fall into a routine: attending services, checking the box, without a deep, active commitment to the mission of God, which, as you rightly pointed out, is the Great Commission—making disciples of all nations. And, unfortunately, our focus can shift away from God’s purpose, especially when life's demands, like work, personal interests, and distractions, become overwhelming. Our commitment to God's mission can easily be drowned out by the noise of the world.

A God-centered church is not a place where the activities of church life merely exist to fill time or maintain tradition. It is a church that is passionately focused on God's purpose and faithfully obedient to His calling. This means the Great Commission isn’t just something we hear about in church; it’s something we live out in our daily lives. Evangelism, discipleship, mission, and service should not be an afterthought or a compartment of our Christian life, but the heartbeat of it. A church truly centered on God will be a mission-driven church, where making disciples is the primary focus, not just the secondary one.

But you’re right to point out that it starts personally as well. It’s not just about how the church functions as a whole; it’s about the individual’s commitment to the discipleship process. In Hebrews, the call is clear: pay close attention to the gospel you’ve received, guard against complacency, and be diligent in your relationship with God. Salvation is a work of God, but that doesn’t mean we coast. On the contrary, the author of Hebrews exhorts us to remain vigilant—to pay attention, to guard against sin, and to exhort one another.

What you're describing is the importance of spiritual discipline. It’s not enough to simply say, “I’m saved, so I’m fine.” The Christian walk requires constant vigilance, saturation in God’s Word, community with other believers, and obedience to His commands. We must fight against complacency and spiritual apathy. The sin of complacency can harden our hearts, making us susceptible to unbelief, and eventually leading us to drift away from God.

You also make an important point about community and gathering together as believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the need for believers to stir up one another to love and good works, and not neglect meeting together. The gathering of the church is not optional—it is necessary for our spiritual growth. When we withdraw from the fellowship of the saints, we lose the encouragement, accountability, and spiritual protection that the church offers.

Too often, we’ve bought into the lie that church is just a personal preference, something that can be easily skipped or neglected. But the Bible shows us that we are called to community, and we need it to thrive spiritually. The church is not just a place we attend, but a family we belong to, and it’s through this community that we are equipped, encouraged, and held accountable in our faith.

As you said, complacency has no place in the Christian life. The danger of falling away from God isn’t a distant threat; it’s a real and present danger for anyone who becomes complacent in their faith. We are called to be active, not passive, in our relationship with God and with one another.

So, I’d ask us all to reflect: Are we really living out our calling as disciples of Jesus Christ? Are we passionate and intentional about fulfilling the Great Commission? Are we growing in our relationship with God, or have we become stagnant? Are we committed to gathering with the body of Christ and engaging in discipleship with one another?

God-centeredness calls us to be diligent, obedient, and faithful in all areas of our Christian life—both as individuals and as a church. Let us not be content with going through the motions but strive to actively live out the mission and purpose God has given us. Dependence on God should lead to active obedience, and together, we can press forward, encouraging one another, guarding our hearts, and continuing in the work He has called us to.

We should continue to encourage one another, especially as we see the day approaching. In the verses that follow, specifically verse 26, we are warned that if we continue to sin willfully, ignoring the exhortations in verses 23-25, we will fall away. This is a serious matter, because on the final day, when Jesus returns, He might say, "I never knew you." A God-centered person is someone who depends on God but is not passive. Rather, he actively obeys God’s commands as directed. Furthermore, such a person delights in God—a concept that’s important to understand. At the beginning of the Bible, when Adam and Eve sinned, they were banished from the garden, and access to God’s presence was lost. Since then, humanity has been separated from God. But in the history of Israel, we see God’s mercy in dwelling among them. This is a great privilege—God, the Creator of the universe, being present with us, and we being able to be in His presence. A God-centered person recognizes this privilege and delights in it, finding joy in the ability to approach God's throne of grace. Hebrews 4 encourages us to draw near to God in prayer, knowing that through Jesus, we have access to the Father and can call Him "Abba, Father." One day, in the new heaven and new earth, we will enjoy unrestricted access to God, without fear or death.

However, there’s another aspect to consider: a God-centered person doesn’t just depend on God and delight in Him, but also fears God. This is a necessary balance. God is not a figure like Santa Claus or a doting grandfather; He is holy. The holiness of God is emphasized in this passage from Numbers. C.S. Lewis captured this dynamic by using the character Aslan in The Chronicles of Narnia, portraying Aslan as a powerful lion. In one passage, Lewis wrote, "Who said anything about Aslan being safe? Of course, he isn't safe, but he's good. He's the King." Lewis is conveying that while Aslan (and by extension, Jesus) is good, gracious, and merciful, He is also not safe in the sense that He is holy and powerful. Similarly, drawing near to God is both a sweet and fearful experience because, while we were made to be with God, we must acknowledge that He is both terrifying and terrific in His holiness. This balance of delight and fear reflects the reality that God is holy, and we are sinful. Therefore, Numbers demonstrates why there is a need for mediators like the Levites, who act as a protective buffer, ensuring that we can approach God without being consumed by His holiness.

36:47

So that they would not incur God’s wrath, we see instances like Nadab and Abihu, who died for offering unauthorized fire. In chapter 3, verse 10, it states that anyone who trespasses must be put to death, and if any of the sons of Kohath touch the holy things they are forbidden to, they too will die. In verse 20, they are told not to even look at the holy things, or else they will die. We also read about Uzzah, who was struck dead for touching the Ark of the Covenant. In these chapters of Numbers, the constant threat of death looms because God is holy, and humanity is not. In the New Testament, we are called to offer God acceptable worship with reverence and awe, fearing Him. I am saddened when people treat God too casually. Yes, through Jesus, we can confidently approach God, but there must also be a genuine reverence and fear in how we relate to Him. We love God and we fear Him—both are essential aspects of the Christian life. Do you fear God? Do you serve Him with reverence and awe because He is holy? If we don’t, we may end up as hypocrites, facing the judgment of God.

In Numbers, Israel was preparing for war and to enter the Promised Land. How did they prepare? By sharpening weapons, building strength, and learning tactics? No, the most important lesson was that God is the center of everything. The only way they could conquer Canaan was by being a God-centered people. Will we be dependent on God? Will we be directed by God? Will we delight in Him? Will we have a proper reverence and fear of God? That is the key. And for us today, as a church, may we also be a God-centered church—dependent, directed, delighting, and fearing God. Let us pray together.

If you are visiting today, I understand how this might seem difficult to grasp. But let me tell you, the heart of Christianity is not about mankind trying to earn their way to God. It is about God, in His mercy, sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to die and rise again to pay for our sins. I invite you to the core of Christianity: God and His Son, Jesus, who came to save you. Jesus did it all. You can depend on Him. He commands you to repent and believe. Let us delight in His saving work. Let us fear Him, obey Him, and follow Him. I urge you, I beg you, to turn from sin and believe in Jesus.

For all those who have embraced the gospel, I pray these four chapters leave a lasting image of God-centeredness in our hearts and lives. Let us not be complacent. As we look to God for the salvation of our souls, may we remain faithful to Him to the end. As a church, may we depend on Him and obey His call in the Great Commission. Let us not focus on our own agendas, careers, or pleasures, but let us behold our God and serve Him with awe and reverence.

Father, bless Your people. May we remain faithful to You, remembering that You are to be the center of our lives and our church, for Your glory. We pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.