What does Leviticus 9:7 teach about obedience and responsibility in spiritual leadership? Context and Scene Setting Leviticus 9 brings us to the inauguration of Israel’s priesthood. After seven days of consecration, Aaron is about to offer the first sacrifices on behalf of the nation. Verse 7 captures Moses’ charge: “Moses said to Aaron, ‘Approach the altar and present your sin offering and burnt offering; make atonement for yourself and for the people. Present the offering for the people and make atonement for them, as the LORD has commanded.’” (Leviticus 9:7) Key Observations • Moses issues a direct command; Aaron must obey immediately. • Two tiers of sacrifice are required—first for Aaron himself, then for the people. • The motive is stated twice: “make atonement.” • The authority behind the instruction is explicit: “as the LORD has commanded.” What the Verse Teaches about Obedience • Obedience precedes service. Aaron has no freedom to innovate; he must follow God’s exact prescription (cf. Deuteronomy 12:32). • Obedience is urgent and active—“Approach the altar…present…make atonement.” • Obedience acknowledges divine authority. Aaron’s actions are valid only because “the LORD has commanded” (see 1 Samuel 15:22). What the Verse Teaches about Responsibility in Spiritual Leadership • Personal accountability comes first. Aaron must deal with his own sin before ministering to others (cf. Matthew 7:5; 1 Timothy 4:16). • Mediatorial duty follows. After his own offering, he turns to the people’s need, illustrating that a leader stands between God and the flock (cf. Hebrews 5:1-3). • Faithfulness to the revealed pattern safeguards the people. Any deviation endangers everyone, as Leviticus 10:1-2 later shows. • Leadership is atoning, not self-exalting. Aaron’s role is sacrificial service, pointing forward to Christ, the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 9:11-14). Practical Applications for Today • Examine yourself first. Confess and address personal sin before attempting public ministry. • Treat God’s Word as the non-negotiable standard for all ministry methods and messages. • View leadership as stewardship, bearing others’ burdens and pointing them to atonement in Christ. • Remember that obedience in “small” details (order, timing, method) is as crucial as obedience in “big” commandments. Supporting Scriptures • Exodus 40:16 — “Moses did everything just as the LORD had commanded him.” • 2 Chronicles 29:11 — Hezekiah to the Levites: “My sons, do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before Him…” • Luke 22:26-27 — “The greatest among you should be like the youngest… I am among you as one who serves.” • Hebrews 13:17 — “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account.” |
    |