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Korah – A Rebel Without A Cause

In Jude 1:11, Jude speaks of those who “perished in the gainsaying of Core” (KJV), making direct reference to Korah’s rebellion in Numbers 16-17. He was the individual who not only stirred up some of the princes of the congregation, adversely affecting the tribe of Reuben (Numbers 16:1), but he became a rallying point for all the disgruntled who found fault with Moses and Aaron. Korah maintained that Moses and Aaron had taken more on themselves than God had intended, accusing Moses and Aaron of lifting themselves up above the assembly (Numbers 16:3). God’s intention was that there be fraternity and equality among His people (Numbers 15:37-41). Korah seemed blinded to the fact that should he occupy their place, his accusation would also condemn him. Korah was definitely a rebel without a cause, an instigator of insurrection among God’s people.

Because Moses was a meek man (Numbers 12:3), he was grieved with Korah’s accusation (Numbers 16:4). He proposed that God be allowed to show His choice of who was obedient and holy through the offering of incense with brazen censers (Numbers 16:16-18). To express His displeasure with the rebellion, God opened the earth and swallowed up the rebels (Numbers 16:28-33). Two hundred and fifty others were consumed by fire (Numbers 16:35). The unique form of God’s displeasure was designed to make an impression on the people (Numbers 16:41-50). God then proposed that twelve rods with names inscribed on them representing each of the twelve tribes be laid in the tent of meeting (Numbers 17:1-4). He told Moses, “And it shall come to pass that the man’s rod, whom I shall choose, shall blossom: and I will make to cease from me the murmurings of the children of Israel, whereby they murmur against you” (Numbers 17:5). The next day, Aaron’s rod not only had budded but also had produced blossoms and bore ripe almonds (Numbers 17:8). Never again would there arise a question about God’s choice of leadership and service in His temple (Numbers 17:10).

What main lesson can we learn from the life of Korah? That God will not tolerate rebellion! (cf. 1 Samuel 15:23). When Jesus returns, rebellious and disobedient individuals will be “punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power” (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10). Brethren and friends, let’s not be among them!