Numbers 4:44

The men registered by their clans numbered 3,200.

Study Bible

those registered
The Hebrew word used here is "פְּקֻדֵי" (pequdei), which refers to those who are counted or mustered. In the context of the Israelites, this registration was not merely a census for demographic purposes but a divine mandate for organizing the service of the Tabernacle. It underscores the importance of order and accountability in the service of God. Each person counted had a specific role, reminding us that in the body of Christ, every member has a purpose and function.

by their clans
The term "clans" translates from the Hebrew "מִשְׁפְּחֹתָם" (mishpechotam), indicating family groups or extended families. This highlights the communal and familial nature of Israelite society, where identity and responsibility were closely tied to one's family lineage. It reflects the biblical principle that faith and service are often nurtured within the family unit, emphasizing the role of families in spiritual formation and community life.

numbered
The act of numbering, from the Hebrew "וַיִּהְיוּ" (vayihyu), implies a careful and deliberate counting. This was not a haphazard process but a structured and intentional act, reflecting God's orderliness. In a broader spiritual sense, it reminds believers that God knows each of us by name and number, and that our lives are significant in His divine plan.

3,200
This specific number signifies the total of those eligible for service from the Merarite clan, one of the Levitical families. The precision of this number underscores the meticulous nature of God's instructions and the importance of each individual's contribution to the collective mission. It serves as a reminder that in God's kingdom, every person counts, and each has a unique role to play in the fulfillment of His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Gershonites
One of the Levitical families responsible for the care of the tabernacle's curtains, coverings, and other fabric elements. They were counted separately for their specific duties.

2. Moses and Aaron
Leaders of the Israelites who were responsible for organizing the census and assigning duties to the Levites.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites, central to their worship and community life.

4. The Wilderness of Sinai
The location where the census and organization of the Levites took place, a significant period of testing and preparation for the Israelites.

5. The Census
A divinely commanded enumeration of the Levites, highlighting their roles and responsibilities in the service of the tabernacle.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Organization
God values order in worship and service, as seen in the detailed organization of the Levites. This principle can be applied to our personal and communal worship practices today.

Every Role Matters
The specific duties assigned to the Gershonites remind us that every role in the body of Christ is significant, no matter how seemingly small or behind-the-scenes.

Faithfulness in Service
The Levites' dedication to their tasks serves as a model for faithfulness in whatever God has called us to do, encouraging us to serve diligently and with integrity.

Preparation for Worship
Just as the Levites prepared the tabernacle for worship, we are called to prepare our hearts and lives for worship, ensuring that we approach God with reverence and readiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the organization of the Levites in Numbers 4 reflect God's character and priorities?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of every role being important in our local church or community?

3. How does the service of the Gershonites in the tabernacle relate to the New Testament concept of the body of Christ?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our worship and service are orderly and pleasing to God?

5. How can the faithfulness of the Levites in their duties inspire us in our daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26
Describes the construction of the tabernacle, providing context for the duties assigned to the Gershonites.

1 Chronicles 23
Offers additional insight into the organization and duties of the Levites, showing continuity in their service roles.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work, connecting the Old Testament service to New Testament fulfillment.