Numbers 16:13

Is it not enough that you have brought us up out of a land flowing with milk and honey to kill us in the wilderness? Must you also appoint yourself as ruler over us?

Study Bible

Is it not enough
This phrase reflects a deep sense of dissatisfaction and incredulity. In Hebrew, the expression conveys a rhetorical question, suggesting that the speaker feels overwhelmed by the perceived injustices. It implies that the actions taken by Moses and Aaron are excessive and unjustified. This sentiment is common in human nature when faced with challenging leadership or divine direction, highlighting the struggle between faith and doubt.

that you have brought us up
The phrase "brought us up" is significant in the context of the Exodus narrative. It recalls the physical and spiritual journey from Egypt, a place of bondage, to the Promised Land. The Hebrew root "עלה" (alah) means to ascend or go up, symbolizing not just a physical relocation but a spiritual elevation. This journey is central to the identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people, called to rise above their circumstances.

out of a land flowing with milk and honey
Ironically, this description was originally used to describe the Promised Land (Exodus 3:8). Here, it is used sarcastically to refer to Egypt, which was a place of slavery. This inversion highlights the Israelites' distorted perception due to their hardships in the wilderness. The phrase "flowing with milk and honey" symbolizes abundance and divine provision, which they fail to recognize in their current journey.

to kill us in the wilderness?
This accusation against Moses and Aaron reveals the depth of the Israelites' fear and mistrust. The wilderness, or "מדבר" (midbar) in Hebrew, is often a place of testing and transformation in the Bible. It is where God refines His people, teaching them reliance on Him. The fear of death in the wilderness underscores a lack of faith in God's promises and protection, a recurring theme in the Israelites' journey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Korah
A Levite who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, questioning their leadership and authority.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

3. Dathan and Abiram
Sons of Eliab, from the tribe of Reuben, who joined Korah in his rebellion against Moses.

4. The Wilderness
The desert area where the Israelites wandered for 40 years after leaving Egypt, a place of testing and reliance on God.

5. Egypt
Referred to sarcastically as a "land flowing with milk and honey" by the rebels, highlighting their distorted view of their past bondage.

Teaching Points

Rebellion Against God-Ordained Authority
Korah, Dathan, and Abiram's challenge to Moses' leadership was ultimately a challenge to God's authority. Believers are called to respect and submit to God-ordained leadership unless it contradicts God's Word.

Distorted Perception of the Past
The rebels' reference to Egypt as a "land flowing with milk and honey" shows how discontent can distort our memory of past hardships. We must guard against romanticizing past situations that were contrary to God's will.

The Danger of Envy and Pride
Korah's rebellion was fueled by envy and pride, desiring the priesthood and authority that God had not given him. Believers should cultivate humility and contentment with God's plan for their lives.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The rebellion led to severe consequences, including the earth swallowing the rebels. Disobedience to God and His appointed leaders can lead to spiritual and sometimes physical consequences.

Trusting God's Provision and Timing
The Israelites' journey through the wilderness was a test of faith in God's provision and timing. Believers today are called to trust God even when His plans and timing are not immediately clear.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram illustrate the dangers of challenging God-ordained authority? Can you think of a New Testament example that warns against similar behavior?

2. In what ways do we sometimes romanticize our past, similar to how the rebels viewed Egypt? How can we maintain a truthful perspective on our past experiences?

3. How can envy and pride lead to rebellion against God's plans for our lives? What steps can we take to cultivate humility and contentment?

4. What are some modern-day examples of the consequences of disobedience to God? How can we learn from these examples to avoid similar pitfalls?

5. How can we develop a deeper trust in God's provision and timing, especially during challenging seasons in our lives? What scriptures can we meditate on to strengthen our faith in these areas?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:8
God's promise to bring the Israelites to a land flowing with milk and honey, contrasting the rebels' sarcastic reference to Egypt.

Hebrews 3:7-19
Discusses the rebellion in the wilderness and the hardening of hearts, warning believers to remain faithful.

Jude 1:11
Mentions Korah's rebellion as a warning against rejecting God's appointed leaders.