Numbers 3:38-39

Numbers 3:38-39

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38 Moreover those who were to camp before the tabernacle on the east, before the tabernacle of meeting, were Moses, Aaron, and his sons, keeping charge of the sanctuary, to meet the needs of the children of Israel; but the outsider who came near was to be put to death. 39 All who were numbered of the Levites, whom Moses and Aaron numbered at the commandment of the Lord, by their families, all the males from a month old and above, were twenty-two thousand.

The New King James Version (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982), Nu 3:38–39.

Summary
Access to God's Presence - A Study from Numbers 3:38-39

Introduction:

  • Topic: Understanding the Sacred Role of the Levites and the Access to God's Presence.

  • Text: Numbers 3:38-39.

Main Points:

  1. The Guardians of the Sanctuary: Moses, Aaron, and his sons were appointed to camp on the east side of the Tabernacle, serving as guardians of the sanctuary. This position underscored their role in protecting the sanctity of God's dwelling place among the Israelites.

  2. Exclusive Access to God: The passage emphasizes the exclusivity of access to God's presence, highlighting the death penalty for unauthorized individuals who attempted to approach the sacred space. This underlines the holiness and reverence required in the presence of God.

  3. The Numeration of the Levites: The Levites, numbering 22,000 males a month old and above, were designated for service to the Tabernacle, indicating the extensive commitment of the tribe to the service of the Lord and the community.

Summary Verse: Numbers 3:38 - "Moreover, those who were to camp before the tabernacle on the east, before the tabernacle of meeting, were Moses, Aaron, and his sons, keeping charge of the sanctuary, to meet the needs of the children of Israel; but the outsider who came near was to be put to death."

Application:

  • Reflect on the holiness of God and the importance of approaching Him with reverence and in the manner He has prescribed.

  • Consider the role of Jesus Christ in granting us access to God's presence, fulfilling the typology of the Levitical priesthood by serving as our High Priest.

  • Cherish the privilege of direct access to God through prayer and worship, made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.

Prayer:

  • Gratitude for the sacrificial system that foreshadowed Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

  • Thanksgiving for the access to God's presence granted through faith in Jesus Christ.

  • A request for a deeper appreciation of the privilege of communion with God.

Bryan SchneiderComment