Numbers 3:10

So you shall appoint Aaron and his sons to carry out the duties of the priesthood; but any outsider who approaches the tabernacle must be put to death."

Study Bible

So you shall appoint
The Hebrew word for "appoint" is "פָּקַד" (paqad), which carries the meaning of assigning or commissioning someone for a specific role or duty. In the context of the priesthood, this appointment is not merely a human decision but a divine mandate. It underscores the importance of divine order and structure within the community of Israel. The act of appointing Aaron and his sons signifies God's sovereign choice and the establishment of a sacred lineage to serve Him.

Aaron and his sons
Aaron, the brother of Moses, is chosen by God to be the first high priest, and his sons are to follow in this sacred office. This familial line of priests highlights the importance of heritage and continuity in the service of God. The priesthood is not open to just anyone; it is a specific calling with a divine purpose. Aaron and his sons symbolize the mediators between God and the people, foreshadowing the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, in the New Testament.

to carry out the duties of the priesthood
The Hebrew term for "duties" is "שְׁמָרָה" (shamarah), which implies guarding, keeping, or observing. The priesthood involves a sacred responsibility to maintain the holiness of the tabernacle and the rituals associated with it. This duty is not merely ceremonial but is integral to the spiritual well-being of the nation. The priests are to be vigilant in their service, ensuring that the worship of God is conducted according to His commands.

but any outsider
The term "outsider" refers to anyone who is not part of the Aaronic priesthood. In Hebrew, the word is "זָר" (zar), meaning foreign or strange. This distinction emphasizes the holiness and exclusivity of the priestly office. It serves as a reminder that access to God is not to be taken lightly or approached casually. The separation between the sacred and the common is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, illustrating the need for purity and reverence in worship.

who approaches
The act of approaching, in Hebrew "קָרַב" (qarab), signifies drawing near to something sacred. In the context of the tabernacle, it implies entering into the presence of God. This approach is restricted to those who are consecrated and authorized, highlighting the seriousness of coming before a holy God. It serves as a warning against presumption and underscores the need for proper mediation.

must be put to death
This severe consequence reflects the holiness of God and the seriousness of His commands. The death penalty for unauthorized access to the priestly duties underscores the sanctity of the tabernacle and the priesthood. It serves as a deterrent against casual or irreverent approaches to God. This commandment illustrates the gravity of sin and the need for atonement, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who provides access to God for all believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses, appointed as the first high priest of Israel. He and his descendants were given the exclusive role of serving as priests.

2. Aaron's Sons
The descendants of Aaron who were also appointed to serve as priests. They were responsible for the duties of the sanctuary.

3. The Sanctuary
The holy place where God's presence dwelt among the Israelites. It was a sacred space that required specific regulations and roles for service.

4. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the Law and instructions for worship and community living.

5. The Levites
The tribe set apart to assist the priests and care for the tabernacle, but not to serve as priests themselves.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of God
God's holiness demands reverence and obedience. The strict regulations for approaching the sanctuary highlight the need for purity and respect in worship.

The Role of Priests
Priests were mediators between God and the people, a role fulfilled perfectly by Jesus Christ. Understanding this helps us appreciate the access we have to God through Christ.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The severe penalty for unauthorized access to the sanctuary underscores the importance of following God's commands. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

The Importance of Divine Appointment
God chooses and appoints individuals for specific roles. Recognizing and respecting these divine appointments is crucial for maintaining order and fulfilling God's purposes.

Our Role as a Royal Priesthood
As believers, we are called a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), tasked with offering spiritual sacrifices and proclaiming God's excellencies. This calls us to live lives of holiness and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the appointment of Aaron and his sons as priests reflect God's order and structure for worship in the Old Testament?

2. In what ways does the role of the Old Testament priesthood point to the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest?

3. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by those who approached the sanctuary improperly, and how can we apply these lessons to our own approach to worship?

4. How does understanding the holiness of God impact our daily lives and our relationship with Him?

5. As members of a "royal priesthood," what responsibilities do we have in our communities and churches, and how can we fulfill them faithfully?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28-29
These chapters provide detailed instructions on the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, emphasizing the holiness required for their service.

Leviticus 10
The account of Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons, who were put to death for offering unauthorized fire, illustrating the seriousness of approaching the sanctuary improperly.

Hebrews 5:1-4
Discusses the role of the high priest, drawing parallels to Christ as our ultimate High Priest, emphasizing the need for divine appointment.