How does Leviticus 9:6 emphasize obedience to God's commands for His glory? Setting the Scene • Israel has just completed the Tabernacle (Exodus 40). • Aaron and his sons are being ordained as priests (Leviticus 8). • The very first public sacrifices are about to be offered (Leviticus 9). • Into this decisive moment Moses declares: “Moses said, ‘This is what the LORD has commanded you to do, so that the glory of the LORD may appear to you.’” (Leviticus 9:6) Key Observations • “This is what the LORD has commanded” – obedience is non-negotiable; God Himself has set the terms. • “You” – the whole community is responsible, beginning with the priests. • “So that” – obedience is the divinely appointed means to a promised result. • “The glory of the LORD may appear” – God’s manifest presence is tied to human response. Why Obedience Matters for God’s Glory 1. God’s character is vindicated. • Obedience shows that His word is truth (Psalm 19:7-9). • Disobedience implies God’s commands are optional, diminishing His honor (Malachi 1:6). 2. God’s presence is revealed. • When the sacrifices were offered exactly as commanded, “fire came out from the presence of the LORD” (Leviticus 9:23-24). • Similar patterns: – Exodus 40:34-35 – completion according to pattern, then the cloud fills the tabernacle. – 2 Chronicles 7:1-3 – Solomon’s temple dedicated, fire and glory fill the house. 3. God’s people are blessed. • “You will be My treasured possession” if you obey (Exodus 19:5). • Blessings and curses hinge on obedience (Deuteronomy 28). • Jesus echoes the pattern: “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me… I will love him and reveal Myself to him.” (John 14:21) Contrasts that Highlight the Point • Immediate obedience (Leviticus 9) = glory and joy. • Strange fire of Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10) = judgment and sorrow. • Saul’s partial obedience (1 Samuel 15) brings rejection: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” (v. 22) Practical Takeaways • God’s glory is not an abstract idea; it shows up among an obedient people. • Exactness in following God’s word matters—details reveal devotion. • The ultimate display of glory through obedience is Christ Himself (Philippians 2:8-11). • Our calling mirrors Israel’s: “Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) Summary Leviticus 9:6 links obedience to the tangible manifestation of God’s glory. When God’s people submit wholly to His commands, He delights to make His presence known, vindicating His name and blessing His people. |
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