Leviticus 10:8-20 And the LORD spoke to Aaron, saying,… The ministers of God's house must be examples of purity and obedience. I. The influence of PERSONAL CHARACTER on the work of the teacher, "that ye may teach the children of Israel all the statutes," etc. (verse 11). 1. Self-control and temperance necessary to a wise judgment and a correct life. Possibly the offense of Nadab and Abihu owing to intemperance. 2. The teacher needs the respect of the taught to uphold him in his work. 3. The difference between the holy and the unholy, the clean and the unclean, should be seen as well as heard described. II. THE SUPPORT OF THE MINISTRY may be safely left to come out of the faithful discharge of duty. If the priests are at their post, they will get their portion (verses 12-15). "It shall be thine by a statute for ever." III. THE ERRORS AND OMISSIONS, as well as sins of the ministry, should be "diligently sought after." But in the spirit of charity, not with harsh and censorious judgment. Aaron's excuse was the overwhelming stress of natural feeling. Ministers are but men. Domestic affliction often clouds their mind and burdens their spirit. Moses was content when he understood that the law of nature was honoured; and there is no true sanctity in observances which violate the first principles of humanity, and subvert the natural feelings of the human heart. The slavish system of Rome exalts religious law at the expense of natural justice, and destroys man while it professes to save him. No true religion is cruel The Spirit of Christ is the spirit of mercy. - R. Parallel Verses KJV: And the LORD spake unto Aaron, saying, |
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