Numbers 16:12

Then Moses summoned Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, but they said, "We will not come!

Study Bible

Then Moses summoned
The act of summoning here is significant in the context of leadership and authority. Moses, as the leader appointed by God, exercises his authority to call Dathan and Abiram. The Hebrew root for "summoned" is קָרָא (qara), which means to call or proclaim. This reflects Moses' role as a mediator between God and the people, emphasizing the importance of obedience to divinely appointed leadership. Historically, this summoning is a pivotal moment in the rebellion narrative, highlighting the tension between divine authority and human defiance.

Dathan and Abiram
These two individuals are central figures in the rebellion against Moses. As sons of Eliab, they are part of the tribe of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob, which may imply a sense of entitlement or rivalry. Their mention by name underscores their personal responsibility and the gravity of their rebellion. In the broader scriptural context, their actions serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and insubordination against God's chosen leaders.

the sons of Eliab
This phrase identifies their lineage, which is significant in the tribal structure of Israel. Eliab, being a descendant of Reuben, connects Dathan and Abiram to the larger narrative of Israel's history and the dynamics within the tribes. The Reubenites had a history of seeking prominence, as Reuben was the firstborn of Jacob. This background provides insight into their motivations and the underlying tribal tensions that contribute to the rebellion.

But they said
The response of Dathan and Abiram is crucial. The conjunction "but" indicates a contrast between Moses' authority and their defiance. Their words reflect a deliberate choice to reject Moses' leadership. In the Hebrew text, the verb "said" (אָמַר, amar) often conveys not just speech but a declaration of intent or belief. This highlights their rebellious stance and sets the stage for the ensuing conflict.

We will not come!
This outright refusal is a bold act of defiance. The phrase is a direct challenge to Moses' authority and, by extension, to God's command. In the Hebrew, the negative particle לֹא (lo) combined with the verb בּוֹא (bo, to come) emphasizes their obstinacy. This refusal is not just a personal decision but a public declaration of rebellion. It serves as a warning about the consequences of rejecting divine authority and the importance of humility and submission to God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. Moses is a central figure in this account, representing God's authority.

2. Dathan and Abiram
Sons of Eliab, members of the tribe of Reuben. They are part of the rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership and authority.

3. The Rebellion
This event is part of a larger rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against Moses and Aaron, questioning their God-given leadership roles.

4. The Wilderness
The setting of this event, where the Israelites are journeying after their exodus from Egypt, often a place of testing and rebellion.

5. Eliab
The father of Dathan and Abiram, from the tribe of Reuben, which was one of the tribes of Israel.

Teaching Points

Respect for God-Ordained Authority
God establishes leaders for His purposes. Disrespecting or rebelling against them is akin to rebelling against God Himself.

The Consequences of Rebellion
Rebellion against God's appointed leaders leads to dire consequences, as seen in the fate of Dathan and Abiram.

The Importance of Humility
Humility is essential in accepting God's plans and the leaders He appoints, even when we do not fully understand His ways.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Trusting in God's sovereignty means accepting His choices for leadership and guidance, knowing He works all things for good.

Community and Accountability
The rebellion highlights the need for community accountability and the dangers of allowing dissent to fester unchecked.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the response of Dathan and Abiram reveal about their attitude towards God's appointed leadership?

2. How can we apply the lessons from this passage to our relationships with church leaders today?

3. In what ways does the rebellion of Dathan and Abiram parallel other biblical accounts of rebellion against God’s authority?

4. How does understanding the consequences of rebellion in this passage influence our view of obedience to God?

5. What steps can we take to ensure we are supporting and respecting the leaders God has placed in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 2-4
Provides background on Moses' calling and leadership, establishing his God-given authority, which is being challenged in Numbers 16.

1 Samuel 15
Highlights the importance of obedience to God's appointed leaders, as seen in the account of Saul's disobedience.

Jude 1:11
References Korah's rebellion as a warning against rejecting God's authority, connecting to the broader context of Numbers 16.

Hebrews 13:17
Encourages believers to obey their leaders and submit to their authority, which is relevant to the rebellion against Moses.