Numbers 4:19

In order that they may live and not die when they come near the most holy things, do this for them: Aaron and his sons are to go in and assign each man his task and what he is to carry.

Study Bible

In order that they may live and not die
This phrase underscores the seriousness of approaching the holy things of the Tabernacle. The holiness of God is a central theme in the Old Testament, and the Israelites were repeatedly reminded of the need for reverence and obedience to God's commands. The Levitical laws were given to ensure that the Israelites could approach God without incurring His wrath. This reflects the broader biblical principle that sin leads to death (Romans 6:23), and only through God's provision can life be preserved.

when they come near the most holy things
The "most holy things" refer to the sacred objects within the Tabernacle, such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and the Altar of Incense. These items were considered extremely sacred because they were associated with God's presence. The Levites, specifically the Kohathites, were tasked with transporting these items, but they were not allowed to touch or see them uncovered, highlighting the separation between God’s holiness and human sinfulness.

do this for them:
This directive indicates a protective measure instituted by God. It shows God's mercy and provision for His people, ensuring that they could serve Him without facing the consequences of their inherent unworthiness. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God providing a way for humanity to approach Him, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is our mediator (1 Timothy 2:5).

Aaron and his sons are to go in
Aaron and his sons, the priests, had the unique role of mediating between God and the people. They were the only ones permitted to enter the Holy Place and perform the necessary rituals to cover the sacred items before the Levites transported them. This priestly role foreshadows the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who intercedes on behalf of believers (Hebrews 4:14-16).

and assign each man his task
This phrase emphasizes order and structure within the service of the Tabernacle. Each Levite had a specific role, ensuring that the work was done efficiently and reverently. This reflects the New Testament teaching on the body of Christ, where each member has a unique function (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

and what he is to carry
The specific assignments for carrying the holy items ensured that the Levites did not inadvertently touch or mishandle them, which would result in death. This careful attention to detail highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. It also points to the burden of the law, which Christ ultimately fulfilled, allowing believers to approach God with confidence (Matthew 5:17, Hebrews 10:19-22).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The first high priest of Israel, brother of Moses, and a key figure in the Levitical priesthood. He is responsible for overseeing the duties of the Kohathites.

2. Sons of Aaron
The descendants of Aaron who serve as priests, assisting in the sacred duties and ensuring the proper handling of holy objects.

3. Kohathites
A clan within the Levites tasked with carrying the most holy things of the tabernacle. They must follow specific instructions to avoid death.

4. Most Holy Things
Sacred objects within the tabernacle, including the Ark of the Covenant, which require careful handling to prevent desecration and ensure the safety of those who carry them.

5. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites, containing the most holy things.

Teaching Points

Reverence for the Holy
The passage underscores the importance of approaching God and His sacred things with reverence and obedience. This reverence is a timeless principle for worship and service.

Delegation and Responsibility
Aaron and his sons are tasked with assigning duties, highlighting the importance of leadership, delegation, and ensuring that each person understands their role in God's service.

Obedience and Life
The instructions are given "that they may live and not die," emphasizing that obedience to God's commands is a matter of life and death, both physically and spiritually.

Holiness and Separation
The Kohathites' role in carrying the most holy things illustrates the concept of holiness and the need for separation from the common to serve God effectively.

Christ as Our High Priest
In the New Testament, Jesus is our High Priest who perfectly fulfills the role of mediator, ensuring our access to God through His sacrifice, paralleling the role of Aaron and his sons.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Aaron and his sons in Numbers 4:19 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. What can we learn from the Kohathites' task about the importance of following God's instructions precisely?

3. In what ways does the concept of holiness in Numbers 4:19 apply to our daily lives and worship practices?

4. How does the reverence for the most holy things in the tabernacle connect to our understanding of Christ's sacrifice and His role as our High Priest?

5. Reflect on a time when obedience to God's instructions led to life and blessing in your own experience. How can this passage encourage you to continue in obedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
Provides detailed instructions on the construction and significance of the tabernacle and its furnishings, highlighting the sacredness of the objects the Kohathites are to carry.

Leviticus 10
The account of Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron, who died because they offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, illustrating the seriousness of approaching holy things improperly.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, drawing parallels to the heavenly sanctuary and emphasizing the importance of reverence and proper worship.