Then fire blazed through their company; flames consumed the wicked. Then fire blazedThe phrase "Then fire blazed" refers to a divine act of judgment. In the Hebrew context, fire often symbolizes God's presence and His purifying or consuming power. The Hebrew word for fire, "אֵשׁ" (esh), is frequently associated with God's holiness and His righteous anger against sin. This imagery is reminiscent of the fire that consumed Nadab and Abihu in Leviticus 10:2, emphasizing the seriousness of disobedience to God's commands. The blazing fire signifies an immediate and powerful response from God, underscoring His sovereignty and the seriousness with which He views rebellion. through their company flames consumed the wicked Persons / Places / Events 1. The IsraelitesThe people of God who were delivered from Egypt and wandered in the wilderness. They are the primary audience and subject of Psalm 106, which recounts their history and failures. 2. Korah's Rebellion This event is referenced in Psalm 106:18, where Korah, along with Dathan and Abiram, led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership (Numbers 16). The rebellion resulted in divine judgment. 3. The Wilderness The setting for much of Israel's journey and rebellion, including the incident of Korah's rebellion. 4. Moses and Aaron Leaders of the Israelites during the Exodus and wilderness period. They were the targets of Korah's rebellion. 5. God's Judgment The fire that consumed the wicked is a direct act of divine judgment against rebellion and sin. Teaching Points The Seriousness of Rebellion Against GodRebellion against God's appointed leaders is ultimately rebellion against God Himself. This passage reminds us of the importance of respecting God's order and authority. The Consequences of Sin The fire that consumed the wicked serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin. It calls us to examine our lives and repent of any rebellion against God. God's Holiness and Justice God's response to Korah's rebellion highlights His holiness and justice. We are called to approach God with reverence and awe, recognizing His righteous standards. The Importance of Obedience Obedience to God's commands and respect for His appointed leaders are crucial for maintaining a right relationship with Him. God's Mercy and Forgiveness While this passage focuses on judgment, the broader context of Psalm 106 emphasizes God's enduring mercy and willingness to forgive those who repent. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the account of Korah's rebellion in Numbers 16 help us understand the context of Psalm 106:18?2. In what ways can we identify and address areas of rebellion in our own lives to avoid the consequences seen in this passage? 3. How does the concept of God as a "consuming fire" influence our understanding of His character and our approach to worship? 4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' repeated failures and God's responses throughout Psalm 106? 5. How can we balance the understanding of God's justice with His mercy in our daily walk with Him? Connections to Other Scriptures Numbers 16This chapter provides the detailed account of Korah's rebellion, where the earth opened up to swallow the rebels, and fire from the Lord consumed 250 men offering incense. Leviticus 10 The account of Nadab and Abihu, who were consumed by fire for offering unauthorized fire before the Lord, illustrating the seriousness of approaching God with reverence. Hebrews 12:29 This verse describes God as a consuming fire, emphasizing His holiness and the seriousness of sin.
People Aaron, Abiram, Baalpeor, Dathan, Ham, Phinehas, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Blazed, Broke, Burned, Burneth, Company, Consumed, Fire, Flame, Flames, Followers, Kindled, Lighted, Setteth, Sinners, Tents, WickedDictionary 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 106:18 NIVPsalm 106:18 NLT Psalm 106:18 ESV Psalm 106:18 NASB Psalm 106:18 KJV Psalm 106:18 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |