“But if the LORD make a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with all that appertain unto them, and they go down quick into the pit; then ye shall understand that these men have provoked the LORD.”
Context: The book of Numbers records the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness after their deliverance from Egypt. In this particular chapter, a rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram arises against the leadership of Moses and Aaron. They challenge the authority and priesthood established by God, seeking to exalt themselves.
Rebellion against God’s appointed leadership: Numbers 16 begins by highlighting the rebellion of Korah, a Levite, and other leaders against Moses and Aaron. They gather a group of 250 prominent men and confront Moses, questioning his authority and the uniqueness of the priesthood.
The response of Moses: Moses responds by seeking God’s guidance and direction in this situation. He advises Korah and his followers to present themselves before the Lord with censers the next day, and God will make known whom He has chosen.
God’s judgment: In Numbers 16:30, Moses warns the people about the consequences of this rebellion. He states that if God does something unprecedented, causing the earth to open up and swallow the rebels, then it would serve as a sign that these men have provoked the Lord. Essentially, Moses is stating that if the earth opens up and swallows the rebels, it would demonstrate that they have directly defied God’s authority and will.
God’s intervention: As the story unfolds, God confirms His choice of Moses and Aaron by causing the earth to open up and swallow Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, along with their households, possessions, and all those associated with them. It was a miraculous and dramatic judgment from God, establishing the authority and priesthood of Moses and Aaron.
Key lessons from Numbers 16:30:
- Reverence for God’s appointed leaders: The account of Korah’s rebellion reminds us of the importance of respecting and honoring those whom God has placed in leadership positions. It is crucial to recognize that God establishes authorities and holds them accountable.
- Consequences of rebellion against God: The severity of God’s judgment against the rebels highlights the seriousness of challenging God’s established order and His chosen leaders. It serves as a warning that rebellion against God’s authority carries severe consequences.
- Trusting in God’s justice: Moses’ warning demonstrates the need to trust in God’s justice and timing. He assured the people that if God chose to intervene in an unprecedented manner, they would understand the gravity of the rebels’ actions and God’s response.
- Confirmation of God’s chosen servants: Through this event, God reaffirmed His choice of Moses and Aaron as His appointed leaders. It underscored the significance of God’s selection and the need for the people to recognize and submit to it.
Overall, Numbers 16:30 teaches us the importance of respecting God’s appointed leaders, the severity of rebelling against God’s authority, and the need to trust in God’s justice and His chosen servants. It serves as a reminder to submit to God’s established order and to be cautious of challenging those whom God has placed in positions of authority.
