Numbers 16:17

Each man is to take his censer, place incense in it, and present it before the LORD--250 censers. You and Aaron are to present your censers as well."

Study Bible

Each man is to take his censer
The Hebrew word for "censer" is "מַחְתָּה" (machtah), which refers to a firepan or a vessel used for burning incense. In the context of ancient Israelite worship, the censer was a sacred object, symbolizing the prayers and intercessions of the people rising to God. The instruction for "each man" to take his censer signifies a personal responsibility and direct involvement in worship, emphasizing the individual accountability before God. This act of taking one's censer is a call to personal holiness and dedication, reminding believers of the importance of approaching God with reverence and sincerity.

place incense in it
Incense, in the Hebrew "קְטֹרֶת" (qetoreth), was a fragrant offering made from a specific blend of spices, as detailed in Exodus 30:34-38. It symbolizes the prayers of the saints, as seen in Revelation 5:8, where the prayers of the faithful are depicted as incense before God. The act of placing incense in the censer represents the preparation and intentionality required in worship. It is a reminder that our prayers and worship should be offered with a pure heart and a spirit of devotion, aligning with God's instructions and purposes.

and present it before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" underscores the direct and personal nature of worship in the presence of God. The Hebrew word for "present" is "קָרַב" (qarab), meaning to draw near or approach. This act of presenting the censer before the LORD signifies an intimate encounter with the divine, where the worshiper comes into the holy presence of God. It is a powerful reminder of the privilege and responsibility of worship, where believers are invited to draw near to God with confidence, as encouraged in Hebrews 4:16.

You and Aaron are to present your censers as well
This directive to Moses and Aaron highlights their leadership role and the shared responsibility in the community's spiritual life. Aaron, as the high priest, represents the mediatory role between God and the people, foreshadowing the ultimate high priesthood of Jesus Christ. The inclusion of both Moses and Aaron in this act of worship emphasizes the unity and collective responsibility of God's leaders and people in approaching Him. It serves as an inspiration for Christian leaders today to lead by example in worship and devotion, fostering a community that seeks God's presence together.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Korah
A Levite who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership and the priesthood.

2. Dathan and Abiram
Reubenites who joined Korah in his rebellion, questioning Moses' leadership.

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

4. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the appointed high priest, representing the legitimate priesthood.

5. The 250 Leaders
Influential community leaders who sided with Korah in the rebellion, each bringing a censer to present before the LORD.

6. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among His people, where the censers were to be presented.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Rebellion
Rebellion against God's appointed leaders is ultimately rebellion against God Himself. Korah's account serves as a warning to respect and submit to God's established order.

The Importance of Holiness
Approaching God requires holiness and obedience to His commands. The censers and incense symbolize worship that must be offered according to God's instructions.

God's Sovereign Choice
God chooses whom He wills for specific roles and purposes. Aaron's priesthood was divinely appointed, reminding us to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty.

Unity in the Body of Christ
Division and rebellion can disrupt the unity of God's people. We are called to work together in harmony, respecting the roles and gifts God has given each member.

The Consequences of Sin
The rebellion led to severe consequences for Korah and his followers. Sin has real consequences, and we must be vigilant in our walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram challenge our understanding of authority and submission within the church today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God align with His instructions, as seen in the use of the censers?

3. How does the account of Korah's rebellion illustrate the importance of recognizing and respecting God's chosen leaders?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by the 250 leaders who followed Korah, and how can we apply these lessons to avoid similar pitfalls?

5. How can we foster unity within our church community, drawing from the lessons of division and rebellion in Numbers 16?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 10
The account of Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, resulting in their death. This highlights the seriousness of approaching God in unauthorized ways.

Hebrews 5
Discusses the high priesthood of Christ, emphasizing the importance of God's chosen mediator, paralleling Aaron's role.

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