How does Numbers 16:2 connect with Romans 13:1 on respecting authority? Numbers 16:2 – Rebellion in the Camp “and they rose up before Moses, together with 250 prominent Israelite men—leaders of the congregation who were chosen from the assembly and were men of renown.” (Numbers 16:2) • Korah and his allies reject the leadership that God Himself established through Moses and Aaron. • Their status as “prominent… men of renown” reveals that social standing never exempts one from submitting to God-appointed authority. • The act of “rising up before Moses” is ultimately defiance against the LORD who installed Moses (cf. Exodus 3:10–12). Romans 13:1 – Authority Under God “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God.” (Romans 13:1) • Paul teaches that all civil and ecclesiastical structures derive their legitimacy from God’s sovereign appointment. • Submission is commanded because resisting authority equals resisting God’s own ordinance (Romans 13:2). Connecting the Two Passages • Same Source of Authority – Moses’ leadership (Numbers 16) and modern governing powers (Romans 13) both originate in God’s decree. – Rejecting either is, at root, rejecting God. • Heart of Rebellion – Korah questions, “Why do you exalt yourselves over the assembly?” (Numbers 16:3). – Paul anticipates the same posture and warns that resistance brings judgment (Romans 13:2). • Divine Vindication – God vindicates Moses by causing the earth to swallow the rebels (Numbers 16:31–33). – God promises wrath on those who resist governing authorities (Romans 13:4). • Corporate Impact – Korah’s mutiny endangers the whole congregation (Numbers 16:41–49). – Paul urges submission “for the sake of conscience” to preserve communal peace (Romans 13:5). Practical Takeaways • Respect leaders—spiritual, civic, parental—because God put them there. • Evaluate opposition: is it godly accountability or Korah-style rebellion? • Practice humble appeal rather than proud insurrection (cf. 1 Peter 2:13–17). • Remember that God, not man, ultimately disciplines errant authorities (Psalm 75:6–7). Additional Scriptures • Deuteronomy 17:12–13—death penalty for despising judges or priests. • 1 Samuel 24:6—David refuses to harm Saul, “the LORD’s anointed.” • Jude 1:11—warning against “the rebellion of Korah.” • Titus 3:1—“Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities.” |
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