“And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Behold, I also have given thee the charge of mine heave offerings of all the hallowed things of the children of Israel; unto thee have I given them by reason of the anointing, and to thy sons, by an ordinance forever.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and focuses on the period of Israel’s wilderness journey. In this verse, God is speaking to Aaron, the high priest, and giving him specific instructions regarding his role and responsibilities concerning the offerings and hallowed things of the Israelites.
Divine Appointment:The verse begins with God addressing Aaron directly, emphasizing that it is the Lord who is speaking to him. It highlights the divine appointment of Aaron and his sons to the sacred duty of overseeing the heave offerings and hallowed things. This appointment was a result of Aaron’s anointing as the high priest.
Charge of Heave Offerings:The Lord entrusts Aaron with the charge of the heave offerings. Heave offerings were a portion of the offerings brought by the people that were lifted up or presented before the Lord. These offerings were considered holy and set apart for the Lord’s service. Aaron and his sons were given the responsibility to handle these offerings on behalf of the people.
Responsibility and Perpetuity:God’s instructions to Aaron emphasize the perpetual nature of his responsibility. The verse states that the charge of the heave offerings and hallowed things is given to Aaron and his sons as an everlasting ordinance. This highlights the importance of their role and underscores the need for faithfulness and integrity in carrying out their duties.
Lessons for Christians:While this verse specifically pertains to Aaron and the Old Testament priesthood, there are some principles that Christians can draw from it. It serves as a reminder that God appoints and assigns responsibilities within His kingdom. As believers, we have been anointed by the Holy Spirit (1 John 2:20), and God has given us specific gifts and callings (Romans 12:6-8). We should faithfully steward these gifts and serve the Lord with dedication and integrity.
New Testament Application:In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is revealed as our ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). He has fulfilled the requirements of the Old Testament sacrificial system through His atoning death on the cross. As believers in Christ, we are called a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), and we offer spiritual sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1). Our role as priests involves presenting our lives as living sacrifices and offering worship, praise, and service to God.
In conclusion, Numbers 18:8 highlights the divine appointment and perpetual responsibility given to Aaron and his sons as high priests. Though specifically addressed to the Old Testament priesthood, it carries valuable lessons for Christians today, reminding us of our anointing, gifts, and callings in serving God as a royal priesthood.
