Read Leviticus 10:1-7
Did what happened to Nadab and Abihu surprise you? Their sinfulness was not overlooked by God. In fact, their misstep was used as a teachable moment for Aaron’s other sons and for the people. God’s appointment was not to be taken lightly. His chosen priests were not to make up their own rules.
Moses reminded Aaron that the LORD had said, “I will display my holiness through those who come near me. I will display my glory before all the people.” Nadab and Abihu were on the receiving end of God’s display of holiness—not at all what they expected, especially their father, Aaron who was left speechless.
We’ve seen other Bible examples of where people have died for their sinfulness. I think of a New Testament example of Ananias and Sapphira. Remember they were the couple who disrespected the apostles about their sale of property and flat out lied. Their sentence was immediate death. You can read more about that deception in Acts 5:1-11.
It is hard to read and accept those things that happened. Our takeaway should be to respect God or fear him, always taking his word seriously. We certainly don’t want our legacy to be an example of sinfulness that angers God to the point of our own demise. If God did such things to people in the Bible, are we immune?
Some people might try to rationalize that what Aaron’s sons did wasn’t that bad. To God, it was an affront. These priests had been given clear instructions and yet they wanted to do their own thing. God’s disapproval of their actions is clear.
What I found hard to imagine was not mourning their loss. Moses gave Aaron and his remaining sons strict instructions to stay on their post, stoically going through the prescribed motions. To mourn would be seen as weakness and the people needed their priests to be strong agents of God. The lives of the whole community depended on their obedience.
Priests bear an enormous responsibility to lead the people. In the church, where all believers take part in the priesthood, we are also called to an urgency of reverence toward God. 1 Peter 2:5 says, “And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God.” This is our reality as the priesthood of believers.
What do you take away from this whole situation? Take time today to focus on the holiness of God and how you respond to his majesty.
Let’s pray. LORD, I am humbled at your majesty and desire to be in a relationship with me. I mourn for people who do not know you or who try to make you something you are not. Forgive me for the times when I have tried to do my own thing and ignored your desires for me. I never want to displease your or have others question my motives. I love you and want to live my life for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
