The Levites, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, were set apart for special service to God, primarily in the roles of priests and temple assistants. Their unique position within the Israelite community was established by divine command, as they were chosen to minister before the Lord and serve the people in spiritual matters. The Levites' responsibilities extended beyond the confines of the tabernacle and temple, encompassing a broader missionary role that involved teaching, guiding, and maintaining the spiritual welfare of the nation.

Biblical Foundation and Role

The Levites were appointed by God to serve as His ministers, a role that is first outlined in the Book of Numbers. "Bring the tribe of Levi and present them to Aaron the priest to assist him. They are to perform duties for him and for the whole community at the tent of meeting by doing the work of the tabernacle" (Numbers 3:6-7). This passage highlights their primary function as assistants to the priests, but their duties were not limited to the tabernacle alone.

The Levites were also tasked with teaching the Law to the Israelites. In Deuteronomy 33:10, Moses blesses the tribe of Levi, saying, "They shall teach Your ordinances to Jacob and Your law to Israel." This teaching role was crucial for maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people, ensuring that the Israelites understood and adhered to God's commandments.

Missionary Activities and Influence

The Levites' missionary work can be seen in their efforts to spread the knowledge of God's Law throughout the land. They were dispersed among the tribes of Israel, living in designated Levitical cities, which allowed them to reach a wide audience. This distribution facilitated their role as educators and spiritual leaders, enabling them to influence the moral and religious life of the nation.

In 2 Chronicles 17:7-9, we see an example of the Levites' missionary activities during the reign of King Jehoshaphat: "In the third year of his reign, he sent his officials...to teach in the cities of Judah. With them were certain Levites...They taught throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the LORD." This passage illustrates the proactive approach taken by the Levites in disseminating God's Word, ensuring that the people were instructed in righteousness.

Guardians of Worship and Purity

The Levites also played a critical role in preserving the purity of worship in Israel. They were responsible for the care and transport of the tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the performance of sacred music and rituals. Their service was integral to maintaining the sanctity of the worship experience, which was central to Israel's identity as God's chosen people.

Moreover, the Levites acted as gatekeepers and guardians of the temple, ensuring that only those who were ceremonially clean could enter. This responsibility underscored their role in upholding the holiness of God's dwelling place and, by extension, the spiritual purity of the nation.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

The legacy of the Levites' missionary work is evident in the enduring emphasis on teaching and spiritual leadership within the Christian tradition. Their dedication to God's service and their commitment to educating the people of Israel set a precedent for future generations of ministers and missionaries. The Levites' example serves as a model for those called to spread the Gospel and nurture the faith of believers, emphasizing the importance of sound teaching, spiritual guidance, and the preservation of doctrinal purity.2 Chronicles 17:8,9
And with them he sent Levites, even Shemaiah, and Nethaniah, and Zebadiah, and Asahel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehonathan, and Adonijah, and Tobijah, and Tobadonijah, Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, priests.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Church Fabrics and Services.
... the middle panel, the middle one gilt, a piece of open carved work beneath, going ...
to the altar, are collateral helps not to be despised by the ministers of the ...
/.../the english church in the eighteenth century/chapter x church fabrics and.htm

What is Youth with a Mission (YWAM), and what are their beliefs? | GotQuestions.org

What was Jesus' mission? Why did Jesus come? | GotQuestions.org

What is the World Mission Society Church of God, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.org

Mission: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus