July 20, 2009

Text: Numbers 16

DEALING WITH PROBLEMS IN-DEPTH

1. Sometimes the personal approach is inadequate

2. A full and public resolution may be necessary

PUBLIC FORUM OFFERED

1. To the Sons of Korah    Numbers 16:16a

2. Two hundred and fifty Levites involved    Numbers 16:17

3. Aaron involved too    Numbers 16:17d

PUBLIC FORUM ACCEPTED

1. Sons of Korah took up Moses' offer    Numbers 16:19

a) Self-confidence

b) Arrogance

c) Defiance

2. Show of strength and support

a) Gathered all the congregation against Moses and Aaron    Numbers 16:19

b) Inveigled many who were detractors    Numbers 16:19

THE LORD'S INTERVENTION

1. In answer to prayer

2. Personal Interest

3. Personal Involvement

4. Threat of consuming all who were rebelling
"Separate yourselves from among this congregation,
that I may consume them in a moment"    Numbers 16:20

INTERCESSION

"Then they fell on their faces, and said,
'O God, the God of the spirits of all flesh,
shall one man sin, and You be angry with all the congregation?"     Numbers 16:22

1. Falling on the face

a) Prostration

b) Humility

2. Addressing God formally

a) God

b) God of the spirits of all flesh

3. Plea entered

a) One man's sin (wickedness of instigator)

b) Anger with all the congregation (foolishness of the multitudes)