Matthew Henry's Complete Bible Commentary

Numbers 13

It is a memorable and very melancholy story which is related in this and the following chapter, of the turning back of Israel from the borders of Canaan, when they were just ready to set foot in it, and the sentencing of them to wander and perish in the wilderness for their unbelief and murmuring. It is referred to Psalms 95:7-95:11, and improved for warning to Christians, Hebrews 3:7-3:19 In this chapter we have, I. The sending of twelve spies before them into Canaan, Numbers 13:1-13:16. II. The instructions given to these spies, Numbers 13:17-13:20. III. Their executing their commission according to their instructions, and their return from the search, Numbers 13:21-13:25. IV. The report they brought back to the camp of Israel, Numbers 13:26-13:33 MHBCC 131.1