“And it came to pass, when the congregation was gathered against Moses and against Aaron, that they looked toward the tabernacle of the congregation: and, behold, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the LORD appeared.”
Context is important when studying a specific verse, so let’s examine the preceding events to understand the significance of this verse:
In Numbers 16, we find the account of a rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, along with 250 prominent leaders of the congregation of Israel. They challenged the authority of Moses and Aaron, accusing them of exalting themselves above the people and acting as if they were the only ones who heard from God.
Moses, seeking God’s guidance, instructed the rebels to present themselves before the Lord the next day with censers, as an offering of incense. He wanted to allow God to settle the dispute and show whom He had chosen. However, the rebels refused to obey Moses and instead gathered against him and Aaron.
In verse 42, we see the outcome of this confrontation. As the congregation gathered against Moses and Aaron, they looked toward the tabernacle, the dwelling place of God’s presence. In a remarkable display, a cloud covered the tabernacle, signifying God’s presence, and the glory of the Lord appeared.
The appearance of the cloud and the glory of the Lord is a visible sign of God’s affirmation of Moses and Aaron as His chosen leaders. It demonstrates that God is on their side and that their authority is ordained by Him. This event served as a powerful confirmation to the people that Moses and Aaron were indeed God’s appointed leaders and spokesmen.
This verse highlights several important lessons:
- The danger of rebellion: The rebellion of Korah and his followers against God’s chosen leaders was a serious offense. It teaches us the importance of respecting and submitting to the authority that God has established in our lives, whether it be in the family, church, or other spheres of influence.
- God’s affirmation of His chosen leaders: The cloud and the glory of the Lord appearing in response to the rebellion demonstrate that God vindicates and supports those whom He has appointed. It reminds us that God is ultimately in control and that He will protect and defend His servants when they are obedient to His will.
- The visible presence of God: The cloud and the glory of the Lord reveal God’s presence among His people. They serve as a reminder that God dwells in the midst of His chosen people, guiding and leading them. This points forward to the promise of God’s abiding presence with His followers through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament era.
In summary, Numbers 16:42 emphasizes the consequences of rebellion, the affirmation of God’s chosen leaders, and the visible presence of God among His people. It reminds us of the importance of submitting to God-ordained authority and recognizing God’s presence in our lives.
