“And they shall be joined unto thee, and keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, for all the service of the tabernacle: and a stranger shall not come nigh unto you.”
Context:The book of Numbers records the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their deliverance from Egypt. In this particular verse, God is speaking to Aaron, the high priest, and giving instructions regarding the Levites’ role in serving the tabernacle and protecting it from unauthorized individuals.
The significance of the Levites:In Numbers 18, God designated the tribe of Levi to serve Him in a special way. While the other tribes were responsible for various tasks, the Levites were chosen for the service of the tabernacle. They were given specific responsibilities, including the care and transport of the tabernacle and its furnishings. They were also responsible for setting up and taking down the tabernacle whenever the Israelites moved.
Joined unto thee:God instructs Aaron that the Levites are to be joined to him. This indicates a close association and a sense of unity between Aaron and the Levites. The Levites were set apart for the service of the Lord, and Aaron, as the high priest, played a crucial role in overseeing their duties and ensuring they carried out their responsibilities faithfully.
Keep the charge of the tabernacle:The Levites were entrusted with the responsibility of guarding and caring for the tabernacle. They were to ensure that everything related to the tabernacle’s service was carried out properly. This included maintaining the cleanliness of the tabernacle, offering sacrifices, and assisting the priests in their duties. The Levites were responsible for upholding the sanctity and order of the tabernacle, as it was the place where God’s presence dwelt among His people.
A stranger shall not come nigh unto you:In this verse, God emphasizes that only the Levites were to be involved in the service of the tabernacle. No unauthorized person, particularly strangers or those from other tribes, was permitted to perform these sacred duties. This strict requirement ensured the purity and integrity of the tabernacle’s service and prevented any profane or unauthorized access.
Spiritual lessons:
- Faithful service: The Levites’ commitment to the service of the tabernacle reminds us of the importance of faithfully serving God in the roles and responsibilities He has entrusted to us. They dedicated themselves to the upkeep and functioning of the tabernacle, demonstrating their faithfulness in their designated tasks. As believers, we should also be faithful in carrying out the tasks God has assigned to us, whether big or small.
- Sanctity and reverence: The exclusion of strangers from the tabernacle’s service highlights the need for sanctity and reverence in worship. The tabernacle represented God’s presence, and only those appointed and consecrated by Him could approach it. This reminds us of the reverence and respect we should have when we approach God in worship, recognizing His holiness and setting ourselves apart for His service.
- Unity and leadership: The close association between Aaron and the Levites teaches us the importance of unity and leadership within the community of believers. Aaron, as the high priest, provided guidance and oversight to the Levites. Likewise, in the body of Christ, leaders are called to provide spiritual direction and support to those under their care, fostering unity and a sense of shared purpose in serving God.
Overall, Numbers 18:4 emphasizes the role and responsibilities of the Levites in serving the tabernacle. It highlights the importance of faithful service, sanctity in worship, and the need for unity and leadership within the community of believers.
