Leviticus 10:20

And when Moses heard that, he was content. Leviticus 10:20 (KJV)

Context: Leviticus 10 recounts the tragic incident of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord and were consumed by fire as a result. Following this event, Moses instructs Aaron and his remaining sons, Eleazar and Ithamar, regarding the regulations for the priests and the consumption of the sin offering.

Explanation: In Leviticus 10:20, Moses’s response reflects his acceptance of Aaron’s explanation for why the sin offering was not consumed as commanded. According to Leviticus 10:16‑18, Moses discovered the sin offering had been burned instead of eaten, which violated the requirement to consume it in the holy place (Leviticus 6:26; 10:17). Aaron explained in Leviticus 10:19 that they did not eat it due to the tragedy of Nadab and Abihu’s deaths, and Moses was content with this reasoning.

Lessons and Themes:

Obedience to God’s instructions – The incident of Nadab and Abihu serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of obeying God’s commands. The priests were given specific guidelines for offering sacrifices, and deviating from those instructions resulted in severe consequences, emphasizing the significance of honoring God’s instructions in our own lives.

Reverence for God – The consequences faced by Nadab and Abihu highlight the need for reverence and respect when approaching God. They offered “strange fire” before the Lord, indicating a lack of reverence and a failure to approach Him in the manner He prescribed. We should approach God with humility and awe, recognizing His holiness and adhering to His prescribed ways.

Leadership and understanding – Moses’s response of contentment demonstrates his role as a leader who accepts reasonable explanations for unexpected circumstances. Leaders should be discerning and compassionate when their followers face challenges that affect obedience.

The seriousness of sin – The severe consequences faced by Nadab and Abihu remind us of the seriousness of sin and its impact on our relationship with God. God’s holiness demands obedience and purity, calling believers to live lives that are pleasing to Him.

Application:

Obey God’s commands – Just as the priests were expected to follow God’s instructions, we should seek to obey His commands in our own lives through study of His Word, living according to His principles, and seeking His guidance in prayer.

Approach God with reverence – In worship and daily life we must approach God with humility, reverence, and awe, allowing His holiness to shape our thoughts, actions, and worship.

Leadership and empathy – Leaders should understand the complexities of situations where obedience may be affected by unforeseen circumstances, appreciating the efforts of those under their care who strive to follow God’s instructions.

Repentance and forgiveness – The severity of the consequences also reminds us of the need for repentance and the assurance of God’s forgiveness through Jesus Christ. When we fall short, we can turn to God, confess our sins, and receive His forgiveness.

Remember that the book of Leviticus contains many ceremonial laws specific to the priesthood and Israel’s worship practices. While we can glean valuable principles, it is crucial to interpret and apply them in light of the New Testament and the teachings of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the Old Testament law.