The earth opened up and swallowed Dathan; it covered the assembly of Abiram. The earth opened upThis phrase refers to a miraculous and divine intervention by God as a response to rebellion. In the Hebrew context, the word for "earth" is "erets," which signifies not just the physical ground but also the land given by God to His people. The opening of the earth is a direct act of judgment, emphasizing God's sovereignty over creation. Historically, this event is linked to the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against Moses' leadership, as recorded in Numbers 16. The opening of the earth serves as a powerful reminder of God's authority and the consequences of defying His appointed leaders. and swallowed Dathan it covered the assembly of Abiram Persons / Places / Events 1. DathanA Reubenite who, along with Abiram and Korah, led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron as recorded in Numbers 16. Dathan's defiance was rooted in a challenge to the God-ordained leadership of Moses. 2. Abiram Another Reubenite and co-conspirator with Dathan and Korah. Abiram's rebellion was part of a larger insurrection against the leadership of Moses, questioning the authority given by God. 3. The Earth Opening A miraculous event where the ground split apart and swallowed the rebels, serving as divine judgment against their rebellion. This event is a direct act of God demonstrating His power and authority. 4. The Assembly of Abiram Refers to the group of followers who aligned themselves with Dathan and Abiram in their rebellion. This assembly faced the same judgment as their leaders. 5. Korah's Rebellion Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Korah was a key figure in the rebellion. His account is intertwined with Dathan and Abiram, and his fate was similar, as described in Numbers 16. Teaching Points The Consequences of RebellionRebellion against God’s appointed leaders is ultimately rebellion against God Himself. This passage serves as a warning of the severe consequences that can follow such actions. God’s Sovereignty and Justice The event of the earth swallowing the rebels underscores God’s sovereign control over creation and His commitment to justice. It reminds us that God will not tolerate rebellion indefinitely. The Importance of Obedience Obedience to God and His appointed leaders is crucial. This passage encourages believers to examine their hearts for any seeds of rebellion and to submit to God’s authority. Community Influence The assembly of Abiram shows how rebellion can spread within a community. Believers are called to be vigilant about the influences they allow in their lives and to foster a community that honors God. The Role of Leadership God appoints leaders for His purposes. This passage challenges both leaders and followers to fulfill their roles with humility and faithfulness, recognizing that leadership is a divine calling. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the account of Dathan and Abiram challenge us to examine our own attitudes towards authority and leadership within the church?2. In what ways can we guard against the spirit of rebellion in our personal lives and within our communities? 3. How does the event of the earth swallowing the rebels demonstrate God’s justice and sovereignty? How should this impact our view of God? 4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by the assembly of Abiram about the influence of community and peer pressure? 5. How can we apply the principles of obedience and submission to God’s authority in our daily lives, especially in situations where we may disagree with leadership? Connections to Other Scriptures Numbers 16Provides the detailed account of the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram against Moses and Aaron. It describes the events leading to the earth swallowing the rebels as a divine act of judgment. Deuteronomy 11:6 References the same event, emphasizing the consequences of rebellion against God's appointed leaders. Jude 1:11 Warns against following the way of Cain, Balaam, and Korah, highlighting the dangers of rebellion and false teaching.
People Aaron, Abiram, Baalpeor, Dathan, Ham, Phinehas, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Abiram, Abi'ram, Band, Buried, Company, Covered, Covereth, Covering, Dathan, Engulfed, Opened, Openeth, Opening, Swallowed, SwallowethDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 106:13-39Library June the Twelfth Waiting for the Spectacular"The waves covered their enemies.... Then believed they His words." --PSALM cvi. 1-12. Their faith was born in a great emergency. A spectacular deliverance was needed to implant their trust in the Lord. They found no witness in the quiet daily providence; the unobtrusive miracle of daily mercy did not awake their song. They dwelt upon the "special" blessing, when all the time the really special blessing was to be found in the sleepless care which watched over them in their ordinary and commonplace … John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year Israel at the Red Sea Why are Men Saved? Sin: Its Spring-Head, Stream, and Sea The Waters of Meribah Fourteenth Day. The Holy one of God. Man's Misery by the Fall Our Status. Twenty Second Sunday after Trinity Paul's Thanks and Prayers for Churches. Elucidations. Rest for the Weary The Second Commandment Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: Obedience Psalms Links Psalm 106:17 NIVPsalm 106:17 NLT Psalm 106:17 ESV Psalm 106:17 NASB Psalm 106:17 KJV Psalm 106:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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