1 Samuel 2:28

And out of all the tribes of Israel I selected your father to be My priest, to offer sacrifices on My altar, to burn incense, and to wear an ephod in My presence. I also gave to the house of your father all the offerings of the Israelites made by fire.

Study Bible

And I chose your father
This phrase refers to God's sovereign election of Aaron, the brother of Moses, as the first high priest of Israel. The Hebrew root for "chose" is "בָּחַר" (bachar), which implies a deliberate and purposeful selection. This choice underscores the divine prerogative in establishing the priesthood, emphasizing that it was not a human decision but a divine appointment. Historically, this choice set the foundation for the Levitical priesthood, a lineage tasked with mediating between God and Israel.

out of all the tribes of Israel
The phrase highlights the exclusivity and special nature of the priestly calling. Among the twelve tribes, the tribe of Levi was set apart for religious duties. This separation is significant in the historical context of Israel, as it established a distinct group dedicated to maintaining the spiritual health of the nation. The Levites, and particularly the descendants of Aaron, were entrusted with sacred responsibilities, reinforcing the idea of holiness and consecration.

to be My priest
The role of the priest was central to Israel's worship and relationship with God. The Hebrew word for "priest" is "כֹּהֵן" (kohen), which denotes one who serves in a sacred capacity. Priests acted as intermediaries, offering sacrifices and prayers on behalf of the people. This role was not merely ceremonial but was integral to the covenant relationship between God and Israel, symbolizing purity, dedication, and service.

to offer sacrifices on My altar
Sacrifices were a fundamental aspect of Old Testament worship, serving as a means of atonement and communion with God. The altar, a sacred place of offering, was central to the tabernacle and later the temple. The Hebrew term for "sacrifice" is "זֶבַח" (zevach), which encompasses various offerings, including burnt offerings, peace offerings, and sin offerings. These acts of worship were vital for maintaining the covenant and expressing devotion and repentance.

to burn incense
Burning incense was a symbolic act representing the prayers of the people ascending to God. The Hebrew word for "incense" is "קְטֹרֶת" (qetoreth), which was a fragrant offering made on the altar of incense. This practice was a daily ritual, signifying continual prayer and intercession. Incense burning was a reminder of the need for constant communication with God and the priest's role in facilitating this spiritual connection.

and to wear an ephod in My presence
The ephod was a sacred garment worn by the high priest, signifying his unique role and authority. The Hebrew word "אֵפוֹד" (ephod) refers to a richly embroidered vestment, part of the high priest's attire. Wearing the ephod in God's presence symbolized the priest's readiness to serve and his consecration to the divine service. It was a visual representation of the priest's duty to bear the names of the tribes of Israel before the Lord.

I also gave to the house of your father
This phrase indicates God's provision and blessing upon the priestly family. The "house of your father" refers to the descendants of Aaron, who were granted the privilege of receiving portions of the offerings. This provision was both a practical support for the priests and a sign of God's favor and covenant faithfulness.

all the offerings made by fire by the Israelites
Offerings made by fire, or "אִשֶּׁה" (isheh), were sacrifices consumed on the altar, symbolizing complete dedication to God. These offerings included burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings, each with specific purposes and regulations. The priests were entitled to portions of these offerings, ensuring their sustenance and reinforcing their role as God's appointed servants. This system of offerings was central to Israel's worship, reflecting themes of sacrifice, devotion, and divine provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eli
The high priest during the time of Samuel's birth, Eli is a central figure in this passage. He is being addressed by a man of God who is delivering a message of judgment due to the unfaithfulness of his sons.

2. The House of Aaron
The reference to "your father" pertains to Aaron, the first high priest of Israel, from whom Eli is descended. Aaron's lineage was chosen by God to serve as priests.

3. The Altar
The altar is a sacred place where sacrifices were offered to God. It symbolizes the place of atonement and worship.

4. The Ephod
A priestly garment worn by the high priest, symbolizing his role and authority in serving before God.

5. Israel
The nation chosen by God, from which the tribe of Levi was set apart for priestly duties.

Teaching Points

Divine Choice and Responsibility
God’s choice of Aaron’s lineage for the priesthood underscores the importance of divine calling and the responsibilities that accompany it. We are reminded that with privilege comes accountability.

Faithfulness in Service
The failure of Eli’s sons serves as a warning about the consequences of unfaithfulness in our service to God. We must strive to honor God in our roles and responsibilities.

Sacredness of Worship
The mention of the altar and the ephod highlights the sacredness of worship and the need for reverence in approaching God. Our worship should be marked by sincerity and respect.

Generational Impact
The blessings and responsibilities given to Eli’s house remind us of the generational impact of our faithfulness or lack thereof. Our actions can influence future generations.

God’s Provision
The offerings given to the priests illustrate God’s provision for those who serve Him. Trusting in God’s provision is essential for those in ministry.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the divine choice of Aaron’s lineage for the priesthood reflect God’s sovereignty in our own lives and callings?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are faithful in the roles and responsibilities God has given us, avoiding the pitfalls seen in Eli’s sons?

3. How can we cultivate a sense of reverence and sacredness in our personal and corporate worship today?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our faithfulness positively impacts future generations?

5. How can we trust in God’s provision in our lives, especially when serving in ministry or other areas of service?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28
This chapter details the garments of the priesthood, including the ephod, highlighting the sacred duties and responsibilities of the priests.

Leviticus 6:16-18
These verses describe the offerings made by fire, which were given to the priests as part of their sustenance, connecting to the privileges and responsibilities of the priestly family.

Hebrews 5:1-4
This passage discusses the role of the high priest, chosen by God to act on behalf of men in relation to God, offering gifts and sacrifices for sins.