What does the story of the brazen serpent in Numbers represent?

The story of the brazen serpent reflects a powerful truth about faith and salvation. In Numbers 21, the Israelites were bitten by poisonous snakes, symbolizing the bite of sin. God's provision of the brazen serpent lifted on a pole illustrates how Christ would be lifted up on the cross, bearing our sin. As Jesus states in John 3:14-15, just as the Israelites were saved by looking to the serpent, we are saved by looking to Christ in faith. This type exemplifies how faith in Jesus' redemptive work is essential for eternal life, highlighting the grace and mercy extended to believers.