“And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, Even tomorrow the Lord will shew who are his, and who is holy; and will cause him to come near unto him: even him whom he hath chosen will he cause to come near unto him.”
Context: Numbers 16 tells the story of Korah’s rebellion against Moses and Aaron’s leadership. Korah, along with some other leaders and members of the Israelite community, challenged the authority of Moses and Aaron, questioning their right to be the spiritual leaders of the people.
Rebellion against God-appointed authority: Korah’s rebellion was not just a challenge to human leadership but ultimately a rebellion against God’s established authority. The Lord had chosen Moses and Aaron to lead the Israelites out of Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. However, Korah and his followers sought to undermine their authority and exalt themselves.
God’s response to rebellion: In verse 5, Moses addresses Korah and his company, declaring that God Himself will intervene to settle the matter. Moses affirms that the Lord will demonstrate who is truly His and who is holy. This response highlights the seriousness of rebellion against God’s chosen leaders.
God’s choice and proximity: Moses emphasizes that God will cause the one He has chosen to come near to Him. This statement indicates that proximity to God’s presence is a sign of divine selection and favor. In this context, coming near to God represents the privilege of being chosen for a specific role or task.
Lessons for believers:
- Respect for God-ordained authority: Korah’s rebellion serves as a warning against challenging or undermining the authority structures established by God. This applies not only to spiritual leaders but also to various forms of authority within society.
- God’s sovereignty in choosing leaders: The passage reminds us that God is the ultimate authority in selecting leaders. He chooses and raises up individuals according to His divine plan and purposes. Therefore, we should trust in God’s selection, even if it differs from our own preferences or expectations.
- Proximity to God: The concept of coming near to God has significant spiritual implications. It signifies intimacy, favor, and the opportunity to serve in a closer relationship with Him. As believers, we should strive to draw near to God through prayer, worship, and obedience, seeking to align ourselves with His will.
Application:
- Submit to God’s appointed leaders: Recognize and respect the leaders whom God has placed in authority, both within the church and in other areas of life. Submitting to their guidance and direction, unless they lead contrary to God’s Word, demonstrates our trust in God’s sovereign choices.
- Seek God’s presence: As believers, we should pursue a close relationship with God, desiring to draw near to Him. We can cultivate intimacy with God through regular prayer, studying His Word, participating in worship, and seeking His guidance in our lives.
- Embrace God’s plans and purposes: Trust that God knows best when it comes to selecting leaders and assigning tasks. Even if we don’t fully understand or agree with His choices, we should surrender our own desires and align ourselves with His will, trusting that His plans are for our ultimate good.
Remember to study the passage in its broader context and consider additional commentaries or teachings to gain a more comprehensive understanding.
