The Sin of Balaam_____________

Balaam___A diviner, son of Boer and resident of the town of Pethor (Num.22; 23 ;24; Deut. 23:4).

Peter, Jude and John deal with Balaam as a real historical person.

(II Pet. 2:15; Jude 11; Rev. 2:14).

Balaam was a renowned man who was self-willed (Num.22:5-22); saved from death by a beast (Num.22:33); double minded in that he was eloquent in prophecy but presumptuous in seeking to alter the divine plan (Num. 23: 24); a failure in his mission (Num.24:10); an evil counselor (Num.31:16); overcome by the besetting sin of avarice (II Pet.2:13).

The clearest knowledge without grace is worthless

The presence of any sin is ruinous, especially covetousness.

The most pious wishes are sometimes in vain. The road to hell can be paved with good intentions.

To die well, one must live well.