Numbers 16:25

So Moses got up and went to Dathan and Abiram, and the elders of Israel followed him.

Study Bible

So Moses got up
The phrase "Moses got up" signifies a decisive action taken by Moses, the leader appointed by God. In Hebrew, the verb used here is "וַיָּקָם" (vayaqam), which means "to arise" or "to stand up." This action is not merely physical but also symbolic of Moses' readiness to confront the rebellion led by Dathan and Abiram. It reflects his obedience to God's command and his role as a mediator between God and the people. Moses' rising is a testament to his leadership and courage in the face of opposition, reminding us of the importance of standing firm in our convictions and duties as followers of God.

and went to Dathan and Abiram
The act of going to Dathan and Abiram is significant in the narrative. These men were part of the rebellion against Moses' leadership, challenging the authority that God had bestowed upon him. The Hebrew verb "וַיֵּלֶךְ" (vayelech) means "to go" or "to walk," indicating Moses' willingness to confront the issue directly. This confrontation is not just a physical journey but a spiritual and moral one, as Moses seeks to address the rebellion with the hope of reconciliation and restoration. It highlights the importance of addressing conflicts head-on with a spirit of humility and a desire for peace.

and the elders of Israel followed him
The presence of the "elders of Israel" following Moses underscores the communal aspect of leadership and decision-making in ancient Israel. The elders were respected leaders within the community, representing the collective wisdom and experience of the people. Their support of Moses in this situation signifies a unified front against the rebellion, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and shared responsibility in leadership. The Hebrew word for "elders" is "זִקְנֵי" (ziqnei), which denotes those who are mature and wise. This phrase reminds us of the value of wise counsel and the strength found in unity when facing challenges within a community of faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses is responding to a rebellion against his leadership.

2. Dathan and Abiram
Sons of Eliab, from the tribe of Reuben, who, along with Korah, led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their God-given authority.

3. The Elders of Israel
These were leaders among the Israelites who supported Moses and followed him as he confronted the rebels. Their presence signifies the backing of Moses' leadership by the established authority structure.

4. Rebellion of Korah
This event is a significant rebellion against Moses and Aaron, where Korah, Dathan, Abiram, and others questioned the leadership and priestly roles assigned by God.

5. The Wilderness
The setting of this event, where the Israelites were journeying after their exodus from Egypt, often a place of testing and revelation of faith.

Teaching Points

Respect for God-Ordained Leadership
This passage highlights the importance of respecting and following leaders whom God has appointed. Rebellion against such leadership is ultimately rebellion against God.

The Role of Community Support
The elders' support of Moses demonstrates the importance of community backing in leadership. Leaders need the support and counsel of wise and godly individuals.

Consequences of Rebellion
The account of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram serves as a warning about the consequences of challenging God's established order. It reminds us to examine our hearts for rebellion against God's will.

God's Faithfulness in Leadership
Despite challenges and rebellions, God remains faithful to His chosen leaders, providing them with the support and guidance needed to fulfill their roles.

The Importance of Humility
Moses' willingness to confront the rebels, despite the personal attack, shows humility and reliance on God's justice rather than personal vindication.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rebellion of Dathan and Abiram reflect our own tendencies to question authority, and how can we guard against this in our spiritual lives?

2. In what ways can we support and encourage the leaders in our church or community, as the elders supported Moses?

3. What are some modern examples of rebellion against God-ordained authority, and how can we respond biblically?

4. How does the account of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram challenge us to examine our own hearts for pride and rebellion?

5. How can we apply the principles of humility and reliance on God, as demonstrated by Moses, in our own leadership roles or daily interactions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 18
The appointment of elders to assist Moses in leading the people, showing the established leadership structure that supported Moses.

1 Samuel 15
The theme of rebellion against God's appointed leaders, as seen in Saul's disobedience, which parallels the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.

Hebrews 13:17
The New Testament exhortation to obey and submit to leaders, reflecting the importance of respecting God-ordained authority.