Theme: We are saved by grace through faith. God provided the bronze serpent for the Israelites bitten by the fiery serpents (Numbers 21), that those who gazed on it might live. So too, the Father lifted up Jesus on the cross, that all who look to Him in faith might have eternal life.

COMMENTARY

Old Testament: Numbers 21:4-9
The Israelites grow impatient as they wander in the wilderness surrounding the country of Edom and complain about God's provision for their needs. The text states that God sent poisonous snakes among the people as punishment. The people confess their sin and seek Yahweh's mercy. The Lord commands Moses to fashion a bronze snake and put it on a pole in the midst of the camp. If anyone was bitten, he could look to the bronze serpent and have his life spared. God does no…