In the Old Testament, the people of God often used the Urim and Thummin to determine the will of God. What exactly were they, and should we use them today as Christians?
Talking Points:
- The Urim and Thummim were “a divinely-given means by which God imparted, through the high priest, direction and counsel to Israel when these were needed.” (Easton’s Bible Dictionary) Ex 28:30, Lev 8:8
- Even though this seemed like a pagan practice, God doesn’t condemn it. It showed up on occasion in the Old Testament. Numbers 27:21, Deuteronomy 33:8, Joshua 7:14, Judges 1:1, 1 Samuel 14:37, 28:6
- The Urim and Thummim seem to go dark in the OT before appearing one more time in Ezra 2:62. “They were probably lost at the destruction of the temple by Nebuchadnezzar. They were never seen after the return from captivity.” (Easton)
- Christians today don’t need the Urim and Thummim to determine the will of God. He has given us the Holy Spirit, the Bible, and other Christians for that. Romans 12:2
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Are you surprised or offended that God gave the Urim and Thummim to the Israelites in the Bible? Why or why not?
- Why do you think God would use such a seemingly pagan ritual for revealing his will to the people?
- Read Romans 12:2. How do you determine God’s will in your life today?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
