Numbers 16:17

Each man is to take his censer, place incense in it, and present it before the LORD--250 censers. You and Aaron are to present your censers as well."

Study Bible

Each man is to take his censer
In the context of Numbers 16, the instruction for each man to take his censer is directed towards Korah and his followers, who were challenging the leadership of Moses and Aaron. The censer, a vessel used for burning incense, symbolizes the priestly duties and the sacredness of approaching God. This act was a test to determine whom God had chosen as His true priests. The use of censers highlights the seriousness of the rebellion, as it involved sacred rituals reserved for the priesthood.

place incense in it
Incense in the Old Testament is often associated with prayer and worship, as seen in Psalm 141:2, where prayer is likened to incense. The act of placing incense in the censer signifies an attempt to offer worship and seek divine approval. However, in this context, it underscores the presumption of Korah's group in assuming a role not appointed to them by God. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the importance of obedience to God's established order.

and present it before the LORD
Presenting the censers before the LORD indicates coming into God's presence, a privilege and responsibility given to the priests. This phrase emphasizes the direct challenge to God's authority, as Korah and his followers sought to present themselves as equals to Aaron. The presence of the LORD is a recurring theme in the Pentateuch, where God's holiness and the proper way to approach Him are central. This act of presenting the censers was a direct confrontation with God's chosen leadership.

250 censers
The number 250 signifies the large following Korah had amassed, indicating a significant rebellion against Moses and Aaron. This number also highlights the widespread discontent among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The collective action of these men with their censers represents a unified front in their challenge, yet it also sets the stage for God's decisive judgment, as seen later in the chapter.

You and Aaron are to present your censers as well.
Moses' instruction for Aaron to present his censer alongside the rebels serves to contrast the divinely appointed priesthood with the presumptuous claims of Korah's group. Aaron's participation underscores his legitimate role as high priest, chosen by God. This act foreshadows the ultimate vindication of Aaron's priesthood, as God demonstrates His choice through the miraculous events that follow. The inclusion of Aaron in this test points to the theme of divine election and the importance of adhering to God's established order, a principle that resonates throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Korah
A Levite who led a rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership and the priesthood.

2. Dathan and Abiram
Reubenites who joined Korah in his rebellion, questioning Moses' leadership.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

4. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the appointed high priest, representing the legitimate priesthood.

5. The 250 Leaders
Influential community leaders who sided with Korah in the rebellion, each bringing a censer to present before the LORD.

6. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among His people, where the censers were to be presented.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Rebellion
Rebellion against God's appointed leaders is ultimately rebellion against God Himself. Korah's account serves as a warning to respect and submit to God's established order.

The Importance of Holiness
Approaching God requires holiness and obedience to His commands. The censers and incense symbolize worship that must be offered according to God's instructions.

God's Sovereign Choice
God chooses whom He wills for specific roles and purposes. Aaron's priesthood was divinely appointed, reminding us to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty.

Unity in the Body of Christ
Division and rebellion can disrupt the unity of God's people. We are called to work together in harmony, respecting the roles and gifts God has given each member.

The Consequences of Sin
The rebellion led to severe consequences for Korah and his followers. Sin has real consequences, and we must be vigilant in our walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram challenge our understanding of authority and submission within the church today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God align with His instructions, as seen in the use of the censers?

3. How does the account of Korah's rebellion illustrate the importance of recognizing and respecting God's chosen leaders?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by the 250 leaders who followed Korah, and how can we apply these lessons to avoid similar pitfalls?

5. How can we foster unity within our church community, drawing from the lessons of division and rebellion in Numbers 16?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 10
The account of Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, resulting in their death. This highlights the seriousness of approaching God in unauthorized ways.

Hebrews 5
Discusses the high priesthood of Christ, emphasizing the importance of God's chosen mediator, paralleling Aaron's role.

Jude 1
Mentions Korah's rebellion as a warning against rejecting God's appointed leaders and authority.