In Numbers 15-17, we see a contrast between God’s mercy towards unintentional sins and His firm judgment on intentional sins. A man gathering sticks on the Sabbath and Korah’s rebellion against Moses showed what happens when people disrespect God’s authority. Despite seeing miracles and being led by God, the Israelites grumbled and challenged their leaders. God made it clear that He chooses His leaders—confirming Aaron’s role by making his staff blossom.