Evangelist Richard Harper
Moses’ sin of striking the rock instead of speaking to it, as commanded by God, is recorded in Numbers 20:7-12. The Israelites were in the wilderness, facing severe thirst, and they complained bitterly. God instructed Moses to speak to the rock at Meribah, promising it would yield water. However, in frustration, Moses struck the rock twice with his staff, saying, “Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock?” (Numbers 20:10, KJV). Though water did flow, God rebuked Moses and Aaron for their lack of faith and failure to sanctify Him before the people.
As a result, Moses was barred from entering the Promised Land. This incident underscores the importance of obedience, humility, and reverence in leadership, showing that even leaders must honor God’s commands fully. Moses’ act also marred a symbolic representation, as the rock had previously been struck in Exodus 17 to provide water—a foreshadowing of Christ, who would be “smitten” once for humanity’s salvation (Isaiah 53:4-5, 1 Corinthians 10:4). Moses’ disobedience here altered the intended image, as Christ would not need to be “smitten” again, but instead, believers are to “speak” to Him in faith.
