How can we ensure our worship is reverent and obedient like Aaron's? The Sound That Safeguarded the Priest’s Life “Aaron must wear it when ministering, so that the sound of the bells will be heard when he enters and exits the Holy Place before the LORD, so that he will not die.” (Exodus 28:35) Why the Bells Matter Today • They announced Aaron’s every movement before the LORD—nothing hidden, no casual approach. • Their continual ringing reminded him (and everyone listening) that he served on holy ground under divine scrutiny. • Disobedience meant death (cf. Leviticus 10:1-3; Numbers 3:4); exact obedience preserved life. Principle 1 – Approach God Exactly as He Prescribes • God, not personal preference, sets the terms of worship. • Leviticus 10:3: “I will show My holiness to those who are near Me.” • Ecclesiastes 5:1: “Guard your steps when you go to the house of God.” • Practical application: study the Word, pattern gatherings after its commands (Acts 2:42), refuse innovations that conflict with Scripture. Principle 2 – Wear the Right Garments • Aaron’s robes pointed to righteousness supplied by God. • Isaiah 61:10; Galatians 3:27: we must be “clothed with Christ.” • Practical application: come to worship having confessed sin (1 John 1:9), trusting Christ’s finished work, not our performance. Principle 3 – Maintain Continual Awareness of God’s Presence • Every bell swing said, “The LORD is here.” • Hebrews 12:28-29: “worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” • Practical application: arrive early, quiet the heart, read a psalm, turn off distractions, remember whose presence you’re entering. Principle 4 – Obedience From the Heart • 1 Samuel 15:22: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Practical application: sing lyrics that are true, give generously without show, submit joyfully to biblical leadership (Hebrews 13:17). Principle 5 – Offer Yourself as the Sacrifice • Romans 12:1: “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.” • Worship extends past the service: holiness at work, love at home, integrity online. Putting It All Together ✓ Prepare—examine conscience, meditate on Scripture, reconcile with others (Matthew 5:23-24). ✓ Enter—come humbly, joyfully, expectantly, aware of God’s nearness. ✓ Participate—sing, pray, listen, give, serve, all according to the Word. ✓ Continue—let Sunday shape Monday-Saturday; keep the “bells” ringing through consistent obedience and reverence every day. In these ways we echo Aaron’s obedient footsteps, ensuring our worship is both reverent and life-preserving before the LORD. |
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