Beware of Mixed Multitude

Exodus 112: 38a says “And a mixed multitude went up with them.” Who were the mixed multitude? They were non-Jews. God’s Word did not reveal why they joined the Israelites when God delivered the tribes of Israel from Egypt. Some things are however obvious. The mixed multitude were not God’s covenant people. God did not call them out of Egypt; they just took advantage of the deliverance of Israel to come out of the house of bondage.

It was the mixed multitude that started the murmuring when they complained about the food God was providing (Num. 11: 4). It is their kind, in our midst, who fault the ministry of God’s Word. They want excitement and varieties; the teaching of the Word is always boring to them. Today, our churches are populated with people who are best described as mixed multitude. They are the ones who cannot stand solely on the principles and doctrines of the Bible. For them, it must be Christ plus something or someone. They are not interested in messages that borders on living a holy life.

Unfortunately, they are under spiritual leadership like Aaron’s. This is the kind of leadership that seeks to amuse the flock; they keep the crowd through excitement and entertainment. The Jews wanted a replacement for Moses who was a sticker for what the Lord GOD commanded. Moses’ emphasis was on the instructions of God. The moment he was off a little, the people mounted pressure on Aaron to innovate and reinvent the system of worship. They wanted a god with whom there are no consequences for sin. The people wanted a worship-system that makes provision for deeds of the flesh.

Church is become like a showbiz. In showbiz, the atmosphere is reeks of excitement and sensuality. Solemnity is a taboo in showbiz. Needless to say, many church-people have solemn meetings. To them, church must be fun. So, we look for all kinds of celebrations to keep the people excited. Who cares about lifestyle of individuals in a show? What does it matter if church workers leave in sin but are skilled and talented? It takes a strong and godly leader to resist the sinful and worldly cravings of the people.

You can be a faithful member and be dying of spiritual malnourishment because your inner man is being fed with chaff. When you are fed with worldly wisdom that has no power to subdue your lower nature, how can you resist temptations and overcome trials? King Saul got into trouble with God because he was always tilting towards what the people want. Instead of feeding the

flock of God, leaders like Aaron thrill the sheep. This approach may make the church popular, but leaves her spiritually powerless to enforce God’s kingdom on earth.