Numbers 26:9-11; Psalm 46
Introduction:
1. The sons of Korah are only mentioned thirteen times in Scripture, eleven of which are in the opening of the psalms they composed (Psalms 42; 44-49; 84-85; 87-88).
2. Of special interest this evening is Psalm 46 with its emphasis on God’s might to bring destruction on the wicked and save the righteous from the same.
3. In light of their history, we can learn much from these obscure, unnamed sons.
Discussion:
I. Korah’s Rebellion
A. In Numbers 16, Korah was a ringleader in a revolt against Moses, and more importantly by extension against God (16:1-14, esp. 11).
B. When Moses called on God to settle the matter (16:15-17), all the rebels were destroyed (16:18-49), with Korah and his kin swallowed by the earth (16:31-34).
II. His Sons’ Non-Participation
A. All his kin except his sons “…who did not die” (Numbers 26:9-11).
B. Clearly, they did not take part in their father’s rebellion, or they too would have died rather than becoming inspired psalm writers for God.
III. Fruit Can Fall Far from the Tree
A. These events reinforce the fact that guilt is not inherited (Ezekiel 18:20).
B. This is a critical principle as we see that people coming from unfavorable homes absolutely can choose to follow the Lord anyway.
C. Notice three major truths from the sons of Korah in this vein:
1. They proved we do not have to participate in another’s rebellion (Matthew 10:37).
2. They proved we should never defend the indefensible, no matter the relation.
3. They proved even those who come from rebellious stock can use their talents in God’s service (1 Chronicles 26:19; Psalms 42; 44-49; 84-85; 87-88).
Conclusion:
1. Peer pressure (especially familial) is a powerful weapon of the devil.
2. But He Who is in us is greater than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4).
Further Food for Thought
1. Have you ever had to face pressure from family to do the wrong thing? (Matthew 10:34ff)
2. How did you handle that situation?
3. How can we best explain to our families that God comes even before them?