“Criticism”
And they gathered themselves together against Moses. —Numbers 16:3
Read Numbers 16:1-15
Korah, a Levite, together with Dathan and Abiram, rose up against Moses. They did not want to accept him as their leader any longer, and neither did they need him as an intercessor before God. They would go directly to God themselves and bring their sacrifices to Him. In addition, Korah was not satisfied with his position in the Tabernacle. He wanted to do the work of a priest, blessing the people and bringing sacrifices on their behalf.
Moses was frightened when he heard their complaints, for he knew what the end result would be: they would bring down God’s wrath on themselves. He instructed the rebels to return the following day to hear the Lord tell who would serve in a leadership role. For it was ultimately the Lord they were resisting as their leader. But Korah and the others refused Moses’ invitation, continuing to blame him for the difficult circumstances of their lives. Their criticism was that Moses should have left them in Egypt, that he had not handled the situation well, and as a result, they would all die in the desert.
Does this example mean that we may not criticize a minister? Truly, no minister is perfect. However, what motivates your criticism? Is it a love for the Lord, or is it an irritation with the man himself, brought on by your own pride? If it is the latter, then humble yourself, and go to him as a caring student of the gospel.
Of what must you be careful when criticizing?