Numbers 24

One of the more interesting experience related in the Old Testament is the fall of Balaam. It is apparent that in the beginning of the story, that Balaam is a righteous man, a prophet, upon which the local people know is the Spirit of the Lord. What seems to be the fall of Balaam, seems to be the fall of many men, the seemingly reward of the riches of the world. Much like the story of Martin Harris and the lost manuscripts, Balaam couldn't take no for and answer.

Balaam seemed to continue to deliver the word of the Lord, blessing Israel, even prophesying of the Savior saying -

"...there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel..." (Old Testament | Numbers 24:17)

and -

"...Out of Jacob shall come he that shall have dominion..." (Old Testament | Numbers 24:19)

If Balaam had left it as that, maybe he would of have fallen. But in puruit of riches, he counseled Balak how Israel may not receive the promised blessings and be overcome through sin. This becomes apparent as -
"...Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab.
2 And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods.
3 And Israel joined himself unto Baal-peor..." (Old Testament | Numbers 25:1 - 3)

With the fall of Balaam, we witness -

"...Balaam also the son of Beor they slew with the sword." (Old Testament | Numbers 31:8)

Balaams fall was legendary as later prophets commented -

"...following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness..." (New Testament | 2 Peter 2:15)

"Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward..." (New Testament | Jude 1:11)

And also -

"But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication." (New Testament | Revelation 2:14)