Numbers 4:22

"Take a census of the Gershonites as well, by their families and clans,

Study Bible

Take a census of the Gershonites as well,
In the context of the Book of Numbers, God commands Moses to take a census of the Levite clans. The Gershonites are one of the three main divisions of the Levites, alongside the Kohathites and the Merarites. This census is part of a broader organizational structure for the Israelites as they prepare to move through the wilderness. The census serves both a practical and spiritual purpose, ensuring that each clan knows its responsibilities in the service of the Tabernacle. The act of taking a census is significant in biblical history, often symbolizing God's care and order among His people.

by their families and clans,
The mention of "families and clans" highlights the importance of family lineage and tribal identity in ancient Israelite society. Each clan within the tribe of Levi had specific roles and duties related to the Tabernacle, and these were passed down through generations. This structure ensured that the sacred duties were carried out with precision and reverence. The emphasis on family and clan also reflects the communal nature of Israelite life, where identity and responsibility were closely tied to one's family group. This organization is seen throughout the Old Testament, where genealogies and tribal affiliations play a crucial role in the narrative and legal structures of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gershon
Gershon was the firstborn son of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The Gershonites were one of the three main Levitical clans responsible for the care of the tabernacle and its furnishings during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness.

2. Levi
Levi was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, and his descendants, the Levites, were set apart for religious duties. The tribe of Levi did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes but was given cities and the responsibility of serving in the tabernacle.

3. Census
The census mentioned in this verse was a counting of the Levites, specifically the Gershonites, to determine those who were eligible for service in the tabernacle. This was part of a larger organizational effort to ensure the proper functioning of the tabernacle.

4. Tabernacle
The tabernacle was the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was a central place of worship and sacrifice during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

5. Wilderness Journey
This event takes place during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. The organization and duties of the Levites were crucial for maintaining the tabernacle and the worship of God during this time.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order in Worship
God is a God of order, and the organization of the Levites, including the census of the Gershonites, reflects the importance of structure in worship and service. This teaches us to approach our worship and service with intentionality and reverence.

Every Role Matters
The specific duties assigned to the Gershonites highlight that every role in God's service is significant. Whether visible or behind the scenes, each task contributes to the greater purpose of glorifying God.

Faithfulness in Service
The Gershonites were entrusted with specific responsibilities, reminding us of the importance of being faithful in whatever God has called us to do. Our faithfulness in small things prepares us for greater responsibilities.

Community and Cooperation
The census and organization of the Levites demonstrate the need for community and cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes. We are called to work together, using our diverse gifts for the common good.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the organization of the Levites about the importance of order and structure in our own worship practices today?

2. How does the specific role of the Gershonites in caring for the tabernacle relate to the concept of spiritual gifts and service in the New Testament church?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are being faithful in the roles and responsibilities God has given us, even if they seem small or insignificant?

4. How does the cooperation among the Levitical clans in serving the tabernacle inspire us to work together in our church communities?

5. Reflecting on Hebrews 9, how does the earthly tabernacle and its service point us to the greater reality of Christ's work and our worship in spirit and truth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 6:16-17
Provides the genealogy of Levi, including his sons Gershon, Kohath, and Merari, establishing the foundation for the Levitical clans.

Numbers 3:21-26
Details the specific duties of the Gershonites concerning the tabernacle, including the care of the curtains, coverings, and entrance screens.

1 Chronicles 23:6-11
Chronicles the divisions of the Levites, including the Gershonites, during the reign of King David, showing the continuation of their service.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Discusses the earthly tabernacle and its regulations, providing a New Testament perspective on the significance of the tabernacle and its service.