And when Aaron and his sons have finished covering the sanctuary and all the furnishings of the sanctuary, as the camp sets out, after that the sons of Kohath shall come to carry these, but they must not touch the holy things, lest they die. These are the things of the tent of meeting that the sons of Kohath are to carry. Numbers 4:15
I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today 4:1-15, where the Lord commands Moses and Aaron to take a census of the sons of Kohath (among the Levites), and He describes their duties with the tent of meeting. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: God seeks obedience - in detail. In the Old Testament ceremonial law, these details matter but we know that as part of God's plan obedience to this level of detail is unsustainable so there is a need for regular atonement through animal sacrifice. With the New Covenant based on Christ's shed blood, obedience to ceremonial law is fulfilled permanently, leaving obedience to the moral law intact. Obedience in detail still matters because lack of attention to detail shows lack of care. We should treasure God above all else and it should show in our obedience and service to Him. Because He is SO good to us, in response we want to please, honor and glorify Him...so obedience is not burdensome (see also 1 John 5:3).
- What do we learn from the text about people?: There are so many people behind the scenes in every day life that serve and obey God in detail. Their hearts are right with God because they abide in Him and bear fruit (John 15:1-10). They are not seeking their own glory but that of the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid seeking God's favor through action and your own strength and power. Claim the promise that obedience is not burdensome because we love Him SO much and we treasure and seek Him. Follow the example of Jesus who loved the Father SO much that He willingly suffered and died so that others could have life now to the full and for eternity. Obey God in detail - do it all for the glory of God.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves. I am not deserving of how You love and save. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
