Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

Numbers 16/17 Bible Study (Korah's Rebellion/Aaron's Staff Buds) | Pastor Daniel Batarseh

Pastor Daniel Batarseh|Monday, February 4, 2019

Scripture References

Numbers 16Numbers 17Numbers 14Leviticus 16:12Numbers 12Luke 17:13 John 1:9Isaiah 14:14Philippians 2:5Titus 3:101 Peter 5Numbers 26:10-11Psalms 84:101 Chronicles 6:31-37Psalms 46:1-3Numbers 151 Kings 8:7-9

Sermon Summary

This study of Numbers 16-17 explores Korah’s rebellion, the danger of envy, and the power of intercession. It highlights the redemption of Korah’s sons and the miracle of Aaron’s budding staff as symbols of God's life-giving grace.

Key Takeaways

1Envy often starts when we stop seeing our current ministry or role as a significant calling from God.
2Intercessory prayer is an effective tool that can move God to withhold judgment and extend mercy to others.
3Allegiance to God must take priority over all other relationships, including family and heritage.
4God's resurrection power is necessary to produce fruit; we cannot keep His commandments through human effort alone.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1Moses asked the sons of Korah, 'Is it too small a thing for you?' What are some 'small things' God has given you that you might be tempted to devalue?
2How does the story of 'On' (who left the rebellion) show us God's grace toward those who repent early?
3The sons of Korah had to literally walk away from their family to stand with God. What are the modern-day equivalents of choosing God over family loyalty?
4How does the lineage of the sons of Korah (producing Samuel and worship leaders) encourage you regarding your own family history or past mistakes?
5Why would the enemy want to leave only the Law in the Ark of the Covenant while removing the manna and the budding rod?
6What does Aaron's staff producing fruit 'overnight' teach us about God's timing and His ability to validate His chosen servants?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Practice contentment by regularly thanking God for the specific 'lane' or ministry He has placed you in.
Identify a 'rebellious' person in your life and commit to interceding for them rather than joining in their complaining.
Examine your heart for the spirit of 'Diotrephes'—a desire for preeminence—and choose the path of servant leadership instead.
When you see others fall, use it as a 'visual aid' to pray for your own protection rather than as an opportunity for judgment.
Rely on the Holy Spirit's power (the budding rod) to live out the Christian life rather than relying on legalistic effort.

Personal Reflection

Take time to quietly reflect on these prompts.

How is the Holy Spirit speaking to me through this message?

What areas of my life need to change in light of this teaching?

Who can I share this truth with this week?

What is one specific action I will take as a result of this sermon?

Prayer Points

Thank God for His Word and the truths revealed in this message.
Pray for understanding and wisdom to apply what you've learned.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out these truths in your daily life.
Pray for others who heard this message, that they too would be transformed.

Notes

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