The LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying, “Let not the tribe of the clans of the Kohathites be destroyed from among the Levites, but deal thus with them, that they may live and not die when they come near to the most holy things: Aaron and his sons shall go in and appoint them each to his task and to his burden, but they shall not go in to look on the holy things even for a moment, lest they die.” Numbers 4:17-20
I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today 4:16-20, where the Lord gives Moses and Aaron instructions for Eleazar to be in charge of the tabernacle and all that is in it, and guidance for treatment of the Kohathites in their role. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: Yes God is holy. There should be no doubt about this. The text today implies that there should be reverence for God - He is the Name Above Every Name and we should not take His name in vain (see also Exodus 20:7 from the 10 Commandments and this sermon) and we should certainly follow His instructions. But once again, specifically and explicitly in the text today we are referring to ceremonial law and roles in this context. The New Covenant based on Jesus' shed blood does away with the ceremonial law and while we should have reverent fear of God (see this post about fear as preservative), we should not fear approaching God is He is our personal Lord and Savior. God loves us, wants to spend time with us, reveal Himself to us, etc. He wants us to bring our cares and concerns to Him. Hebrews 4:14-16 is key.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: Each of us have a role to play in the mission He lays before us as individuals, the local church, and the global church. Obedience to His mission is not burdensome as described in v19 - see also 1 John 5:3.
- 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 carelessly approaching God or misusing His name. Claim the promise that we can approach God in confidence. Follow the example of Jesus who did not see obedience to the Father as burdensome. Fear God (as a preservative) because He is holy.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome Holy God that is approachable and accessible - You save! Thank You Jesus! 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.
