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DANGERS THAT ATTEND LEADERSHIP

Text: Numbers 16
13 July 2009

DANGERS THAT ATTEND LEADERSHIP

1. Leaders

a) The sons of Korah Numbers 16:1a

b) Dathan and Abiram Numbers 16:1b

c) Two hundred and fifty leaders of the congregation Numbers 16:2
“Men of renown” Numbers 16:2c

2. Contrary spirit

a) Against Moses and Aaron Numbers 16:3

b) Charge
“You take too much upon yourselves, for all the congregation is holy, everyone of them, and the LORD is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?” Numbers 16:3

i) Too much authority?

ii) Self-Exaltation?

c) Theological basis

i) Equality

ii) God’s name cite

RESPONSES TO CRISIS IN LEADERSHIP

1. First Response (personal)
“So when Moses heard it, he fell on his face” Numbers 16:4

a) Humility

b) Sadness

2. Second Response (official)

a) Addressing Korah and company Numbers 16:5

b) Addressing the sons of Korah personally Numbers 16:8-11

c) Addressing Dathan and Abiram Numbers 12:12

3. Content of address

a) The issue of being “Chosen” Numbers 16:5-7

b) The issue of seeking the “priesthood” Numbers 16:10

c) The issue of “complaining” Numbers 16:11

COUNTER RESPONSE (Dathan and Abiram)

1. Refusal to respond to Moses’ suggestion of discussion Numbers 16:12

2. Charge of killing the children of Israel Numbers 16:13b

3. Charge of acting like royalty (“a prince) Numbers 16:13c

4. Charge of failure Numbers 16:14

5. Charge of abuse and oppression (“putting out the eyes of these men”) Numbers 16:14c

ANGER OF MOSES

1. Provoked Numbers 16:15

2. Great anger Numbers 16:15a (Cf. Exodus 32:19)

3. Prayer
“Do not respect their offering; I have not taken one donkey from them, nor have I hurt one of them” Numbers 16:15

a) Prayer for vindication (Cf. Psalm 17)

b) Prayer for justice

c) Personal prayer