Num 27:18, 23, Deu 34:9, Mat 19:13, 15 | Clarke | e4.org | Verse 18. In whom is the spirit ] This must certainly mean the Spirit of God ; and because he was endued with this Spirit, therefore he was capable of leading the people. How miserably qualified is that man for the work of God who is not guided and influenced by the Holy Ghost! God never chooses a man to accomplish his designs but that one whom he himself has qualified for the work.

‏ Numbers 27:18

Verse 18. In whom is the spirit] This must certainly mean the Spirit of God; and because he was endued with this Spirit, therefore he was capable of leading the people. How miserably qualified is that man for the work of God who is not guided and influenced by the Holy Ghost! God never chooses a man to accomplish his designs but that one whom he himself has qualified for the work.

‏ Numbers 27:23

Verse 23. He laid his hands upon him] As a proof of his being appointed to and qualified for the work. So at the word of Joshua they were to go out, and at his word to come in, Nu 27:21. And thus he was a type of our blessed Lord as to his mediatorial office, and Divine appointment as man to the work of our salvation; and to this circumstance of the appointment of Joshua to this work, and his receiving of Moses's honour and glory, St. Peter seems to refer in these words, 2Pe 1:16, 17: "We were eye-witnesses of his majesty; for he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; HEAR HIM." See Mt 17:5. But one infinitely greater than either Moses or Joshua is here.

‏ Deuteronomy 34:9

Verse 9. Laid his hands upon him] See on Nu 27:18-23.

‏ Matthew 19:13

Verse 13. Then were there brought unto him little children] These are termed by Luke, Lu 18:15, ταβρεφη, infants, very young children; and it was on this account, probably, that the disciples rebuked the parents, thinking them too young to receive good. See on Mr 10:16.

That he should put his hands] It was a common custom among the Jews to lay their hands on the heads of those whom they blessed, or for whom they prayed. This seems to have been done by way of dedication or consecration to God-the person being considered as the sacred property of God ever after. Often God added a testimony of his approbation, by communicating some extraordinary influence of the Holy Spirit. This rite has been long practised among Christians, when persons are appointed to any sacred office. But this consecration of children to God seems to have grown out of use. It is no wonder that the great mass of children are so wicked, when so few, are put under the care of Christ by humble, praying, believing parents. Let every parent that fears God bring up his children in that fear; and, by baptism, let each be dedicated to the holy trinity. Whatever is solemnly consecrated to God abides under his protection and blessing.

‏ Matthew 19:15

Verse 15. He-departed thence.] That is, from that part of Judea which was beyond Jordan, Mt 19:1; and then went to Jericho. See Mt 20:29.