What other scriptures highlight the importance of protecting God's appointed servants? Protecting God’s Workers: Numbers 4:18 in Context “Do not allow the Kohathite tribal clans to be cut off from the Levites.” (Numbers 4:18) • The charge is practical—keep the Kohathites safe while they handle the holiest items. • The charge is theological—God Himself ties their preservation to the preservation of worship. Direct Safeguards in the Torah • Numbers 4:19-20 – “Do this for them so that they may live and not die… But the Kohathites are not to go in and look at the holy objects, even for a moment, or they will die.” • Numbers 3:10 – “Appoint Aaron and his sons… but any outsider who approaches must be put to death.” • Exodus 22:28 – “You must not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people.” All three texts show that harming or even mishandling God’s appointed servants brought immediate judgment. Echoes in the Historical Books • 1 Samuel 26:9 – “Who can lift a hand against the LORD’s anointed and be guiltless?” • 2 Samuel 1:14-16 – “Why were you not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the LORD’s anointed?” David executes the Amalekite who boasted of killing Saul. • 2 Kings 2:23-24 – Mockers of Elisha are mauled by bears, a vivid reminder that contempt for a prophet invites divine defense. • 1 Chronicles 16:22 / Psalm 105:15 – “Do not touch My anointed ones; do no harm to My prophets.” Korah’s Rebellion: A Cautionary Tale Numbers 16 records Levites who rejected God’s order. • The earth swallowed Korah’s company (Numbers 16:32-33). • Fire consumed 250 men offering unauthorized incense (Numbers 16:35). God protects His servants not only by shielding them but by judging threats against them. Prophets and Promise • 2 Chronicles 20:20 – “Believe His prophets, and you will succeed.” Cooperation with God’s spokespersons brings blessing. • Zechariah 2:8 – “Whoever touches you touches the apple of His eye.” Though aimed at Zion, the principle extends to those God uniquely treasures. New Testament Reinforcement • Acts 23:5 – “Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.” Paul honors the high priest even when wronged. • 1 Timothy 5:17-19 – “The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor… Do not entertain an accusation against an elder, except on the testimony of two or three witnesses.” • Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account.” • Romans 13:1-2 – “There is no authority except from God… whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God.” Living the Principle Today • Honor spiritual leaders with words, attitudes, and actions. • Defend them against slander or reckless accusation. • Provide practical care so they can fulfill their calling safely. • Remember that to protect God’s servants is to honor God Himself—the consistent thread from Numbers 4:18 through the whole of Scripture. |
    |