Danette,
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Actually that very example is one that abusive spiritual leaders will use to "prove" that God is on their side and that any questioning of their practices or teaching is rebellion akin to the Israelites rebellion against Moses and punishable by the most severe means.
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Yes, ma'am. I understand that. However, it is also a clear example of people saying, "I don't want or need the authority God has placed in my life. I'm just as spiritual as he is, so thpppppt!"
The principle is too clear too lay aside - people get disgruntled with a pastor (for right or wrong reasons) and deal with it the wrong way, by coming to the conclusion that they don't need a pastor.
That is another example of twisting Scripture.
Sorry, Danette, survey says...X. I posted the verse. Notice what I didn't post - the verses where God killed Korah and co for rebellion. I noticed that free2know seemed to feel no need for a pastor. Free2know cleared that up now.
These abusive leaders will not tolerate anyone comparing their teaching to the Word and concluding that they are wrong.
Yes, I know. But that's where we just have to make them uncomfortable.
Moreover, notice David's attitude toward Saul, even when Saul was wrong. If he's a man of God, even if he's wrong, we must take care how we deal with him. Paul even took a cautious attitude toward the high priest, a man who, for all practical purposes, no longer had authority in religious matters from God's point of view.