Whether it be good or bad, you carry your family name with you wherever you go and in whatever you do. Notice that for which the family name of two men will be remembered for all time:
Num.26:7-11 “These are the families of the Reubenites: and they that were numbered of them were forty and three thousand and seven hundred and thirty. And the sons of Pallu; Eliab. And the sons of Eliab; Nemuel, and Dathan, and Abiram. This is that Dathan and Abiram, which were famous in the congregation,”
1. Rebellion against godly leaders.
“who strove against Moses and against Aaron in the company of Korah,”
2. Rebellion against God
“when they strove against the LORD:”
3. God’s punishment for their sin.
“And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up together with Korah,”
4. Divisiveness among God’s people.
“when that company died, what time the fire devoured two hundred and fifty men: and they became a sign. Notwithstanding the children of Korah died not.
LESSON - I’m certain that Pallu, Eliab, and Nemuel may have accomplished many positive things for the Reubenites’ family name; however, their works fade in the shadow of the rebellion of Dathan and Abiram. They “which were famous in the congregation” will forever be remembered for their rebellion, divisiveness, and God’s punishment towards them. They will serve as a “sign” or warning to others NOT to rebel against God, His man, or His people. Next time you are contemplating a rebellious action, consider the consequences which may lie ahead for you and your family name...COKER/CHRISTIAN!!
~Mike