In this portion we find Korah, a cousin of Moses, leading a rebellion against Moses and Aaron. He claims
Moses has set himself and his brother Aaron above all the Israelites as leaders and Korah challenges this
leadership decision.
Not only does Korah challenge Moses and Aaron, but he also convinces two hundred and fifty others
that he is right… that he could lead the people perhaps better than Moses.
The accusation was troubling to Moses who went directly to Korah and his men, and said let the Lord
show us who He chose to be leaders. God had surely called Moses and not Korah. God had fully
equipped Moses and Aaron for their leadership roles. Korah was plainly showing jealousy and
insubordination to Gods chosen ones. As a result, God did show His choices….. by opening the ground
and swallowing up Korah, his family, his house, his possessions … everything pertaining to Korah. The
250 other men who followed him? The Lord consumed them by fire.
Seeing all this, yet the Israelites still complained about Moses leadership position. The wrath of God was
stirred again and He sent a plague among the people and thousands died. Another test is given so the
people might believe that Moses and Aaron WERE chosen by God Himself, a budding rod, Aaron’s rod,
and the appointment of Aaron and his sons to serve the tabernacle…. The tribe of Levi.
This passage loudly proclaims many important truths for us today…. especially to those who serve in
ministry leadership capacity of any kind. Jealousy is a killer…self promotion is a destroyer. Many THINK
they are qualified and promote themselves to positions they desire, but if they are not “God promoted”
they can destroy kingdom works. True leaders lead with humility and with care for the flock. True
leaders are submissive and truly called to their positions by God. True leaders are not ego-driven but
“flock” driven… care given. Those who are under their leadership must be vigilant so they are not
undermined and swayed to believe a lie. God is not mocked… He will not tolerate continued
disobedience to His statutes.
The choices are His…. The question is will You follow His choices?
Read Also:
HAFTARAH. 1 Samuel 11:14-12:22
BRIT’HADASHA. Acts 5:1-11