Numbers 11:29Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Some of those near Moses felt envious and suggested that they should be restricted. However, Moses, understanding the profound truth of Christ, addressed them, saying, "Oh, if only all the Lord's people were prophets, when the Lord imparted His Spirit upon them!" This indicates that the law ensnared people and guided them to God, leading many to the mystery of Christ. Yet it could not encompass all; Christ purified those who remained. The Gentiles were not introduced to the truth through Moses or the law, but through the divine power of God the Father, who reveals His image, namely the Son, to those who are unaware; He has called and consecrated them through the anointing of the Spirit.

Joshua, the successor of Moses, was struck with amazement and went to Moses saying, “Have you heard that Eldad and Medad are prophesying? They were called but did not come; my lord Moses, please stop them!” Moses replied, “I cannot stop them, for this is a divine gift. Much less can I prevent them, as I too have received grace. However, I do not believe your objection stems from envy.” Are you not envious of me because they have begun to prophesy while you have not yet done so? Be patient for the appointed time. Who would not desire that all of the Lord’s people be prophets when the Lord pours His Spirit upon them! This is the prophetic word of Moses: when the Lord chooses to give His Spirit. It has not yet been given, hence you have not received.

Moses replied, "I cannot prevent them, for it is a divine gift that I, too, have received. I do not believe your words stem from envy; do not criticize me for their ability to prophesy while you do not. Be patient for the appointed time." He wished aloud, "If only all the people of the Lord were prophets, when the Lord would bestow His Spirit upon them!" By stating, "when the Lord would send," Moses indicates that the Lord has not yet given His Spirit, and thus Joshua does not possess the full gift of prophecy; currently, only a limited gift is available – when the Lord bestows it, the gift will be plentiful. In this way, Moses foreshadowed the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the holy apostles at Pentecost.

Are you envious of me? In other words, do you not already harbor personal jealousy toward me? And do you believe that your jealousy serves as a favor to me? It is futile for us to concern ourselves solely with our own honor and authority, rather than with the glory of God and the work He is doing, while neglecting our personal interests. Recognize that Eldad and Modad, whom you view as undermining my status, have been called to God's service. The prophetic gift they possess confirms and seals this divine assignment. To hinder them from exercising this gift would be to resist the Spirit of grace and thwart the work of God. Quiet your spirit and glorify the Lord, who has raised up two men to labor alongside us, despite your discontent.