Old Testament
Numbers 11:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Moses replied, "Are you jealous on my behalf? I wish that all the LORD's people were prophets and that the LORD would put his Spirit on every one of them!"
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And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD’s people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!
What Numbers 11:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses responds to a man who is upset because others are prophesying. Moses expresses a desire for everyone among the Israelites to have the Spirit of God and be able to prophesy. This reflects Moses' humility and his wish for a deeper connection between God and His people. He sees the ability to prophesy not as a privilege for a few, but as something that should be available to all believers. Moses longs for a community where everyone is empowered by God's Spirit to speak His truth and guidance. This desire highlights the importance of spiritual gifts and the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, emphasizing that God's presence should be accessible to all, not just a select few. Moses' response encourages us to think about how we can foster a community where everyone can experience God's Spirit and share His message.
How to apply Numbers 11:29 to your life
This verse encourages us to desire spiritual gifts for ourselves and others. We should pray for the Holy Spirit to empower everyone in our community, fostering an environment where all can share God's message. By supporting each other in our spiritual journeys, we can create a vibrant community of faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Seventy Elders and the Quail (Numbers 11:1–35)
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Moses
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Numbers 11:29
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 11:29 mean?
In Numbers 11:29, Moses expresses a wish that all of God's people could prophesy and have His Spirit. He responds to someone who is jealous about others prophesying, showing his desire for everyone to have a direct connection with God.
What is the meaning of prophecy in Numbers 11:29?
In this verse, prophecy refers to the ability to speak on behalf of God, sharing His messages and guidance. Moses hopes that all Israelites would have this gift, indicating that he values spiritual empowerment for everyone.
How can we apply Numbers 11:29 in our lives?
We can apply Numbers 11:29 by encouraging spiritual growth in ourselves and others. By praying for the Holy Spirit to empower everyone in our community, we can foster an environment where all can share God's message.
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