13 But Moses objected. "What will the Egyptians think when they hear about it?" he asked the Lord . "They know full well the power you displayed in rescuing your people from Egypt.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Numbers 14:13

Commentary on Numbers 14:11-19

(Read Numbers 14:11-19)

Moses made humble intercession for Israel. Herein he was a type of Christ, who prayed for those that despitefully used him. The pardon of a nation's sin, is the turning away the nation's punishment; and for that Moses is here so earnest. Moses argued that, consistently with God's character, in his abundant mercies, he could forgive them.