Numbers 16:29

If these men die a natural death, or if they suffer the fate of all men, then the LORD has not sent me.

Study Bible

If these men die a natural death
This phrase sets the stage for a divine test of legitimacy. The Hebrew word for "natural death" here is "mûth," which generally means to die or perish. In the context of ancient Israel, a natural death was considered the ordinary end of life, often associated with the natural order established by God. Moses is essentially saying that if Korah and his followers die in a common way, it would indicate that their rebellion is not against God's chosen leader. This phrase underscores the gravity of the situation and the seriousness with which Moses approaches the challenge to his God-given authority.

or if they suffer the fate of all men
The phrase "fate of all men" refers to the common destiny of humanity, which is death. The Hebrew word "pāqad" can mean to visit, appoint, or muster, and in this context, it implies the inevitable appointment with death that all humans face. Moses is emphasizing that if these men meet their end in a typical manner, it would suggest that their actions were not particularly offensive to God. This highlights the expectation of divine intervention as a sign of God's judgment and approval of Moses' leadership.

then the LORD has not sent me
Here, Moses stakes his entire leadership and prophetic authority on the outcome of this event. The Hebrew word for "sent" is "šālaḥ," which means to send or dispatch. Moses is asserting that his mission and authority are directly from God, and if God does not act in a supernatural way, it would mean that Moses is not truly sent by Him. This phrase is a profound declaration of faith and trust in God's justice and sovereignty. It also serves as a reminder of the seriousness of claiming divine authority and the responsibility that comes with it.

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 addressing the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.

2. Korah, Dathan, and Abiram
Leaders of a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their God-given authority. They represent a faction within the Israelite community dissatisfied with Moses' leadership.

3. The Israelite Community
The larger group of people witnessing the events and the rebellion. Their response and understanding of God's authority are central to the account.

4. The Wilderness
The setting of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, a place of testing and revelation of God's power and authority.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, whose authority and choice of leaders are being challenged in this passage.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority
Recognize that God establishes leaders for His purposes. Just as Moses was chosen by God, we must respect and submit to the authorities God places over us.

Consequences of Rebellion
Understand that rebelling against God’s appointed leaders is ultimately rebelling against God Himself. This passage warns of the serious consequences of such actions.

Discernment and Obedience
Develop discernment to recognize God’s voice and His chosen leaders. Obedience to God’s direction is crucial for spiritual growth and community harmony.

Trust in God’s Justice
Trust that God will vindicate His servants and bring justice in His time. Moses’ confidence in God’s judgment serves as a model for us to rely on God’s justice rather than taking matters into our own hands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' response to the rebellion in Numbers 16:29 demonstrate his confidence in God's authority and justice?

2. In what ways can we discern and respect the leaders God has placed in our lives today, both in the church and in society?

3. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced rebellion against authority. What were the consequences, and how did it affect your understanding of God’s order?

4. How can the account of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram serve as a warning for us in our personal and communal spiritual lives?

5. How do the teachings in Romans 13 and Hebrews 13 complement the message in Numbers 16:29 regarding submission to authority? How can these teachings be applied in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
The calling of Moses at the burning bush, where God commissions him to lead the Israelites, establishing his divine authority.

1 Samuel 15
The account of Saul's disobedience, highlighting the importance of obeying God's chosen leaders and the consequences of rebellion.

Romans 13
Paul's teaching on submission to governing authorities, emphasizing that all authority is established by God.

Hebrews 13
Encouragement to obey and submit to spiritual leaders, as they watch over the souls of believers.