In the biblical narrative, the concept of guarding sacred things is deeply rooted in the understanding of holiness and the reverence due to God and His ordinances. Sacred things, as described in Scripture, encompass the holy objects, places, and practices that are set apart for the worship and service of God. The responsibility of guarding these sacred things is a recurring theme, emphasizing the need for vigilance, respect, and obedience to divine instructions.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of the importance of guarding sacred things. The Tabernacle, and later the Temple, were central to Israel's worship and were considered the dwelling place of God's presence. The Levites were specifically appointed to guard the Tabernacle and its furnishings. Numbers 1:53 states, "But the Levites are to set up their tents around the Tabernacle of the Testimony, so that wrath will not fall on the congregation of the Israelites. The Levites are to be responsible for the care of the Tabernacle of the Testimony."

The Ark of the Covenant, a symbol of God's covenant with Israel, was another sacred object that required careful guarding. In 1 Samuel 6:19 , we see the consequences of failing to treat the Ark with the reverence it deserved: "But God struck down some of the men of Beth-shemesh because they had looked into the Ark of the LORD. He struck down seventy men, and the people mourned because the LORD had struck them with a great slaughter."

Priestly Duties and Sacredness

The priests, descendants of Aaron, were entrusted with the sacred duties of offering sacrifices and maintaining the sanctity of the worship practices. Leviticus 10:1-2 recounts the account of Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, resulting in their death. This incident underscores the seriousness with which God views the guarding of sacred practices and the need for adherence to His commands.

New Testament Insights

In the New Testament, the concept of guarding sacred things extends to the spiritual realm. Believers are called to guard the deposit of faith entrusted to them. In 2 Timothy 1:14 , Paul exhorts Timothy, "Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you; guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us." This charge highlights the responsibility of Christians to preserve the purity of the Gospel and the teachings of Christ.

The sacredness of the Church, as the body of Christ, is also emphasized. In 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 , Paul writes, "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple." This passage calls believers to recognize the holiness of their lives and the community of faith, urging them to guard against anything that would defile it.

Guarding the Heart and Mind

The guarding of sacred things is not limited to physical objects or places but extends to the heart and mind of the believer. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." This verse underscores the importance of maintaining purity and holiness in one's inner life, as it directly impacts one's relationship with God and others.

Conclusion

Throughout Scripture, the theme of guarding sacred things serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the reverence due to Him. Whether it is the physical objects of worship, the practices and teachings of the faith, or the inner sanctum of the believer's heart, the call to guard what is sacred is a call to honor God with utmost devotion and obedience.