Old Testament
Numbers 16:21
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"Step away from this community so I can destroy them in an instant!"
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Separate yourselves from among this congregation, that I may consume them in a moment.
What Numbers 16:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God commands Moses to tell the people to separate themselves from a rebellious group that has been challenging His authority. The urgency in God's message indicates the seriousness of the situation, as He is ready to bring judgment upon those who are defying Him. This moment highlights God's holiness and the consequences of sin. The call to separate serves as a warning to the faithful to distance themselves from wrongdoing and to avoid being caught up in the impending judgment. It emphasizes the importance of obedience to God and the need to remain distinct from those who oppose His will. This separation is not just physical but also spiritual, urging the faithful to align themselves with God's purposes and to reject rebellion against Him. The verse serves as a reminder of God's power and the seriousness of sin, calling for a response of faithfulness and reverence.
How to apply Numbers 16:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our associations and influences. We should distance ourselves from those who lead us away from God and His commands. It reminds us to stand firm in our faith and to choose relationships that uplift and support our spiritual journey, avoiding those that may lead us into rebellion against God.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Korah's Rebellion (Numbers 16:1–50)
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Moses
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 16:21 mean?
Numbers 16:21 conveys God's command to Moses to instruct the people to separate themselves from a rebellious group. This separation is a warning of impending judgment against those defying God's authority, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the need for obedience.
What is the meaning of separation in Numbers 16:21?
In Numbers 16:21, separation refers to the act of distancing oneself from a group that is rebelling against God. It emphasizes the importance of avoiding influences that lead one away from God's commands and maintaining spiritual integrity.
Why did God want the people to separate in Numbers 16:21?
God wanted the people to separate in Numbers 16:21 to protect the faithful from the judgment He was about to bring upon the rebellious group. This act of separation serves as a warning to avoid being caught up in sin.
How does Numbers 16:21 apply to our lives today?
Numbers 16:21 encourages us to assess our relationships and influences, urging us to distance ourselves from those who lead us away from God. It reminds us to choose companions that support our faith and to remain steadfast in our spiritual journey.
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