Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for December 8, 2019

Rebellion or Reliance?

Numbers 14:5-19

Overview

-rebellion at Kadesh (13:25-14:4)
-a whole lot of grumbling going on…
-rejection of the word, goodness, power/glory of the LORD

1. The Leaders Respond (5-9)

• fell on their faces
• tore their clothes
• expressed utter confidence in the LORD
• two appeals: don’t rebel and don’t fear

2. The Congregation Responds (10)

• stone them with stones
• progression: murmur, mutiny, murder

3. The LORD Intervenes (11-12)

• glory of the LORD
• two piercing questions
• intent to destroy, disown and start over

4. Moses Intercedes (13-19)

• appeal based on the word, goodness, power/glory of the LORD
• an alien, God-centered perspective
• plea for pardon (Ex. 34:6-7)
• breaking the cycle of rebellion

5. So What?

• Knowing that rebellion against the LORD invites ruin, pray for a tender heart that trusts Him and values His glory.
• connection to Christ: Hebrews 3:1-6, 7:25 and 1 John 2:1-2
• “Other refuge have I none, Hangs my helpless soul on Thee; Leave, ah! Leave me not alone, Still support and comfort me. All my trust on Thee is stayed, All my help from Thee I bring; Cover my defenseless head, With the shadow of Thy wing.” (Jesus, Lover of My Soul- C. Wesley)