The Pillar of Cloud and Fire
J. C. Gray. Numbers 9:15-23 And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, namely, the tent of the testimony… I. AS AN EMBLEM OF DIVINE TRUTH. 1. Supernatural as to origin. 2. Stable: only a cloud, yet not dispersed. 3. Adapted to both night and day. 4. Reliable. 5. Intolerant: "This is the way," and no other. II. AS A SYMBOL OF DIVINE PROVIDENCE. 1. Different appearance to different characters. 2. Presented alternations of aspect to the same people. 3. Mysterious in its movements. 4. Aims at the good of all who follow its guidance. III. As A TYPE OF THE DIVINE SAVIOUR. 1. Mysterious nature. 2. Challenges attention. 3. His purpose beneficent. 4. The source of great comfort. 5. Constant in His attachment.Lessons: 1. Seek to be on the right side of the cloud. 2. Seek it in the right place — over the tabernacle. 3. Follow its guidance. (J. C. Gray.) Parallel Verses KJV: And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, namely, the tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until the morning. WEB: On the day that the tabernacle was raised up, the cloud covered the tabernacle, even the Tent of the Testimony: and at evening it was over the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until morning.