“Now they that died in the plague were fourteen thousand and seven hundred, beside them that died about the matter of Korah.”
In order to understand the context of this verse, let’s explore the surrounding verses and the overall narrative in Numbers 16. This chapter tells the story of a rebellion against Moses and Aaron led by Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and a group of 250 prominent leaders within the Israelite community. They challenged the authority and leadership of Moses and Aaron, questioning why they should have exclusive authority over the people.
In response to this rebellion, Moses instructed the people to separate themselves from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. Moses then warned the congregation that if these men died a natural death, it would mean that God had not sent Moses. However, if a new thing occurred, where the ground opened up and swallowed them, it would be a sign that God had chosen Moses as the leader.
As the people moved away from the rebels’ tents, the ground suddenly opened up and swallowed Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and their households, along with their possessions. This miraculous event confirmed God’s choice of Moses and Aaron as leaders of the Israelites. It also served as a warning to the people about the consequences of rebelling against God’s appointed leaders.
Numbers 16:49 states that a plague broke out among the people, resulting in the deaths of 14,700 individuals, aside from those who died directly in relation to the matter of Korah. This plague was a divine judgment from God in response to the rebellion and discontent within the Israelite community.
This verse serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of challenging God-ordained authority. The rebellion of Korah and his followers demonstrated the consequences of opposing the leaders chosen by God. It also reveals God’s power to bring about judgment and discipline.
From this account, we can draw several lessons. Firstly, it highlights the importance of respecting and submitting to the leadership that God has established. God chooses leaders for His purposes, and rebelling against them can have severe consequences.
Secondly, it teaches us about the holiness and justice of God:He is not to be taken lightly or tested, and His judgments are righteous and just. The plague that struck the Israelites was a reminder of God’s power and authority.
Lastly, this passage underscores the need for humility and obedience. Instead of challenging or questioning God’s appointed leaders, we should approach them with reverence and trust in God’s sovereignty.
Overall, Numbers 16:49 provides a powerful lesson about the consequences of rebellion and the importance of submitting to God’s chosen leaders. It reminds us of God’s sovereignty, holiness, and justice, calling us to humble obedience in our relationship with Him and His appointed authorities.
