Números 4
Charles Spurgeon · Citado em PreceptAustin
Números 4
Spurgeon - First, they were to be numbered. “The Lord knoweth them that are his,” and he takes count of all his people. NET Note - The census of chapter 3 was to register all male Levites from a month old and up. It arranged the general duties of each of the tribes. The second census of Levites now will focus on those between 30 and 50 years of age, those who were actually in service. These are the working Levites. The duties here will be more specific for each of the families. The Kohathites, although part of the ordinary ministry of Levites, were a special group chosen to handle the most holy furnishings. J. Milgrom shows three aspects of their service: (1) skilled labor (מְלָאכָה, méla’khah) or “work,” (2) physical labor (עֲבֹדָה, ̑avodah) or “service,” and (3) assisting the priests (שָׁרֵת, sharet) or “ministering” (see his Studies in Levitical Terminology, 1:60–70). Wenham (from Third Millennium Study Bible) - The different vessels of the tabernacle were wrapped in different coloured cloths marking their different degrees of holiness. The most holy ark, the very throne of God, was wrapped first in the veil, then in a covering of goatskin (AV 'badgers' skins', NEB 'porpoise-hide'), and finally in a blue cloth. The vessels from the next most holy part of the tabernacle were wrapped in a blue cloth, then in an outer goatskin covering (Num 4:7-12). The altar for burnt offering that stood in the court of the tabernacle was wrapped first in a purple cloth, and then in a goatskin cover. Thus, when the camp was on the move, the ark was distinguished from all the other pieces of furniture by its blue outer cover. The same set of colours was used in the tabernacle. Deep blue curtains were used in the holy of holies, purple in the holy place, and the outer cover was again of goatskin. Undoubtedly these colours had significance, but discovering what they signified is difficult. Evidently blue marked out the holiest objects, those most closely associated with the presence of God, perhaps because blue is the colour of heaven, God's real dwelling-place (cf. Exod. 24:10; 1 Kings 8:27), and the tabernacle was built on the pattern of God's heavenly house (Exod. 25:9, 40; Heb. 8:5). Elsewhere blue and purple hangings adorned royal tents (Esther 1:6). Similarly, kings and nobles wore blue and purple garments (e.g. Ezek. 23:6; Judges 8:26). The use of the same colours here reminded Israel that the tabernacle was the palace of their divine king and that the ark was his throne. The Kohathites carried their items on poles or a carrying frame (Num 4:6, 8, 11, 12, 14), but did not actually pack them up. The Gershonites and Merarites on the other hand packed and unpacked their parts of the tabernacle themselves, under priestly supervision (Num 4:28, 33), but did not carry these parts. They were transported on ox-carts. The curtains which were the Gershonites' responsibility required two carts, while the poles and tent pegs, for which the Merarites were responsible, needed four carts. Because their items were small and numerous, each Merarite was responsible for one particular item, so that none of them would be lost (Num 4:32). Running through these censuses are two important biblical principles. First, that every member of the people of God has his part to play. The priests offered sacrifice, the Merarites carried the tent pegs, the other tribes fought in the army. Each was indispensable to the smooth functioning of the whole body. Without full mutual cooperation the people would not reach the promised land. Similarly, in Christ's body every member has been endowed with spiritual gifts which contribute to the welfare of the whole church. But as in ancient Israel 'there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one' (1 Cor. 12:4-6). Paul devotes the rest of the chapter to working out these principles in more detail. The second great principle that is clearly enunciated in these chapters is that Israel was a hierarchy or, more precisely, a theocracy. God spoke to Moses and Aaron, and they passed on God's words to the people. The priests, Aaron's sons, obeyed their father. The Levites were subordinate to the priests, while in their turn the Levites served as religious policemen preventing the ordinary Israelite falling into deadly sin. Similarly, the New Testament pictures the church as well organized with a hierarchical order among its office-bearers. This organization goes back to our Lord himself who appointed twelve apostles in evident imitation of the twelve-tribe organization of Israel. Under Christ the apostles are the supreme authority in the church. Beneath them are the other office-holders such as prophets, teachers and elders (cf. 1 Cor. 12:28ff.; Eph. 4:11f.). The ordinary Christian is urged: 'Obey your leaders and submit to them' (Heb. 13:17; cf. 1 Cor. 16:16; 1 Thess. 5:12ff.; 1 Pet. 5:5); and the leaders are encouraged to 'command' and 'reprove with all authority', for by holding to scriptural teaching 'you will save both yourself and your hearers' (1 Tim. 4:11-16; Titus 2:15). Numbers 4:3 from thirty years and upward, even to fifty years old, all who enter the service to do the work in the tent of meeting. NET Numbers 4:3 from thirty years old and upward to fifty years old, all who enter the company to do the work in the tent of meeting. NLT Numbers 4:3 List all the men between the ages of thirty and fifty who are eligible to serve in the Tabernacle. ESV Numbers 4:3 from thirty years old up to fifty years old, all who can come on duty, to do the work in the tent of meeting. NIV Numbers 4:3 Count all the men from thirty to fifty years of age who come to serve in the work in the Tent of Meeting. thirty years: Nu 8:24-26 Ge 41:46 1Ch 23:3,24-27 28:12,13 Lu 3:23 1Ti 3:6 enter: 2Ki 11:4-12 2Ch 23:1-11 2Co 10:3,4 Eph 6:10-18 1Ti 1:18 to do: Nu 3:7,8 16:9 1Ch 6:48 23:4,5,28-32 1Ti 3:1 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries from thirty years and upward, even to fifty years old - Gilbrant says "The age limit is different in 8:24 where it is twenty-five to fifty, and in 1 Chr. 23:24 where David specifies twenty to fifty. However, in Num. 8:24 the case is different and the wording is different. There is an allowance for those over fifty to “assist” in the work, but not to do it. It is possible that also the younger men, twenty-five to thirty, could serve as assistants of some kind, but not do the work on their own responsibility." Eugene Merrill - The purpose of counting Levite males from the age of one month and older (Nu 3:39–41), then, was purely for the sake of the redemption of the firstborn of Israel. The age of 30 for the minimum age of priestly service was still the custom centuries later. However, the Levites could and did serve in various capacities at younger ages (Num. 8:24). What was involved in this account was the heavy work of transporting the tabernacle and all its accoutrements. (BKC) George Bush on even to fifty years old - At this period of life the strength and vigor of manhood begins somewhat to decay, and it was therefore ordered that they should be henceforth exempted from the harder kinds of service, but they still retained a lighter species of ministry about the tabernacle, of which see ch. 8:24, 26. all who enter the service - All that enter into the host. Heb. kol bo letzâbâ every one that cometh to the army. “All that are meet for the war.”—Cov. “All that were able to war.”—Mat. “All that are able to go forth to the war.”—Cran. The term is military, but as it is spoken of the Levites, the import is spiritual, denoting that kind of ministry or service which the priesthood was expected to perform, for which reason the Greek renders it pas eisporeuomenos leitourgein, every one that entereth in to liturgize, i. e. to officiate sacerdotally In v. 23, the original phrase embracing this word is rendered “to war the warfare,” and this probably gave rise to the N.T. diction, in which the work of the ministry is called, 1 Tim. 1:18, “warring a good warfare,” and where we find mention also of “fighting a good fight of faith,” of “the weapons of our warfare,” of “good soldiers of Jesus Christ,” etc.; all which speak of the Christian life as a spiritual warfare.(George Bush) Service (army/armies, war, service, army, conflict) (06635)(tsaba from tsaba = to go forth to war, to wage war, to serve) is a masculine noun meaning troops or army (2Ki 5:1) and so has to do with war or warfare in many of the OT passages. The TWOT says the root verb tsaba "has to do with fighting, e.g. Israel warring against Midian (Nu 31:7). It has also a wider use in the sense of rendering service." And so in a group of uses in Numbers (Nu 4:3, 23, 30, 35, 39, 43, 8:24-25) tsaba has to do with service related to the Tent of Meeting (or Tabernacle). So one might say tsaba is used in contexts of warfare or worship! Tsaba in Numbers (>70 uses out of >458) -Num. 1:3; Num. 1:20; Num. 1:22; Num. 1:24; Num. 1:26; Num. 1:28; Num. 1:30; Num. 1:32; Num. 1:34; Num. 1:36; Num. 1:38; Num. 1:40; Num. 1:42; Num. 1:45; Num. 1:52; Num. 2:3; Num. 2:4; Num. 2:6; Num. 2:8; Num. 2:9; Num. 2:10; Num. 2:11; Num. 2:13; Num. 2:15; Num. 2:16; Num. 2:18; Num. 2:19; Num. 2:21; Num. 2:23; Num. 2:24; Num. 2:25; Num. 2:26; Num. 2:28; Num. 2:30; Num. 2:32; Num. 4:3; Num. 4:23; Num. 4:30; Num. 4:35; Num. 4:39; Num. 4:43; Num. 8:24; Num. 8:25; Num. 10:14; Num. 10:15; Num. 10:16; Num. 10:18; Num. 10:19; Num. 10:20; Num. 10:22; Num. 10:23; Num. 10:24; Num. 10:25; Num. 10:26; Num. 10:27; Num. 10:28; Num. 26:2; Num. 31:3; Num. 31:4; Num. 31:5; Num. 31:6; Num. 31:14; Num. 31:21; Num. 31:32; Num. 31:36; Num. 31:48; Num. 31:53; Num. 32:27; Num. 33:1 Spurgeon - They were to take up this work as a warfare; for, though it was a peaceful work, yet it is described as being a warfare: and he who serves the Lord, though that service be perfect peace, will not serve him without finding it to be also a warfare. (ED: I would add that since Tsaba is used repeatedly in the "warfare" Name of Jehovah, Jehovah Sabaoth, LORD of hosts (of armies), when we are in warfare/service in His will we are NOT alone!) Ryrie on thirty - In Nu 8:24+, the age for entering service is given as 25. Possibly there was a five-year apprenticeship before a Levite was fully and officially prepared. the service. From the same Hebrew word used of military service in Nu 1:3, suggesting that the work of the Levites for the Lord was as carefully organized as a militia. to do the work in the tent of meeting - See below on tent of meeting. Norman Geisler - NUMBERS 4:3—How can the age for Levitical service be 30, when Numbers 8:24 says 25, and Ezra 3:8 says 20? PROBLEM: According to Numbers 4:3, at 30 years of age a Levite would “enter the service to do the work in the tabernacle of meeting.” However, Numbers 8:24 states, “this is what pertains to the Levites: From twenty-five years old and above one may enter to perform service in the work of the tabernacle of meeting,” and Ezra 3:8 says that Levites “from twenty years old and above” were appointed to oversee the work of rebuilding the house of the Lord. Is there a contradiction between these passages? SOLUTION: First, there is a distinction made in the text between the type of service which is rendered in each case. In Numbers 4:3 the passage talks about anyone entering into the service to perform the business (melakah, business or occupation) of the tabernacle. Numbers 8:24 is referring to those who come “to perform service in the work (baabodath, meaning work or labor) of the tabernacle.” The difference indicates that the younger men, referred to in Numbers 8:24, were probably apprentices who engaged in the manual labor while in training. Later they were admitted to the official service of the tabernacle business at age 30 according to Numbers 4:3. Second, Ezra 3:8 specifically states that these Levites were appointed “to oversee the work of the house of the Lord.” This was not the official service of the tabernacle. Rather, this was the work of overseeing the rebuilding of the temple. Also, due to the fact that the number of Levites who had returned from the captivity was, according to Ezra 2:40 and Nehemiah 7:43, only 74, it was necessary to employ them at a younger age to have a sufficient number to oversee the work. Also, David employed the Levites from age twenty, and he did so because, “They [the Levites] shall no longer carry the tabernacle, or any of the articles for its service” (1 Chron. 23:26). Apparently the work of transporting the tabernacle from place to place in the wilderness journeys required a more mature and stronger person. This practice, apparently begun by David, was followed down to Ezra’s time. (When Critics Ask) Numbers 4:4 "This is the work of the descendants of Kohath in the tent of meeting, concerning the most holy things. Nu 4:15,19,24,30 3:30,31 Mk 13:34 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Summary of Duties - Source: Wenham (TOTC-Numbers) A PRESTIGIOUS POSITION This is the work of the descendants of Kohath in the tent of meeting, concerning the most holy things - The most holy things (קֹדֶשׁ הַקֳּדָשִׁים, qodesh haqqodashim) describes the most holy place in Ex 26:34, the section within the veil of separation (pārōket hammāsāk), but here the term is used used for the furnishings in the sanctuary. In a sense the work of the Kohathites is what they are not to do with the holy things - touch or even see them! THOUGHT - While this position is "prestigious," it is NO MORE important than the other "positions." There is a secular saying that the chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Beloved, God may have called you to a position of less prestige before men but it is NOT less prestigious in the eyes of God Who shows no partiality! One is reminded of Paul's metaphorical description of the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12:16-25 And if the ear says, “Because I am not an eye, I am not a part of the body,” it is not for this reason any the less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? 18 But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired. 19 If they were all one member, where would the body be? 20But now there are many members, but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; or again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 22 On the contrary, it is much truer that the members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary; 23and those members of the body which we deem less honorable, on these we bestow more abundant honor, and our less presentable members become much more presentable, 24 whereas our more presentable members have no need of it. But God has so composed the body, giving more abundant honor to that member which lacked, 25 so that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. Illustration - The story is told of an elderly missionary couple who were returning home on a ship after many years of sacrificial service in Africa. On the same ship was Theodore Roosevelt, who had just completed a highly successful big game hunt. As the ship docked in New York harbor, thousands of well-wishers and dozens of reporters lined the pier to welcome Roosevelt home. But not a single person was there to welcome the missionaries. As the couple rode to a hotel in a taxi, the man complained to his wife, "It just doesn't seem right. We give forty years of our lives to Jesus Christ to win souls in Africa, and nobody knows or cares when we return. Yet the president goes over there for a few weeks to kill some animals and the whole world takes notice." But as they prayed together that night before retiring, the Lord seemed to say to them, "Do you know why you haven't received your reward yet, My children? It is because you are not home yet." Currid - One may wonder why there is such detail given to the work of the Levites in the tabernacle. The description seems to go on ad infinitum. Why is this the case? Why is every Levite assigned his work and told what to carry? Brown discerningly comments, ‘There was no place for ambitious scheming, a competitive spirit or quarrelsome rivalry about their duties. All were to work in harmonious relationships with one another and in dutiful submission to their colleagues, the priests.’ Thus there was to be no room for personal caprice when it came to the work of the tabernacle: it was to be done according to God’s word and in a proper, prescribed and holy way. Brown then projects this idea into the era of the New Testament. He says: It anticipated the interdependent and mutually supportive relationships that were meant to characterize the early Christian churches. Sadly, this noble and enriching ideal was not always evident in the subsequent history of either Israel or the church. Indeed, in the church God has appointed his people to many different positions (see 1 Cor. 12:28–31), and each is to act according to the gift that has been given to him. Most holy things - Num. 4:4; 2 Chr. 31:14; Ezr. 2:63; Neh. 7:65; Ezek. 42:13 See below on tent of meeting. Philip - The truth is that all work in the kingdom of God is royal service, however unostentatious and, from the human standpoint, lowly and insignificant. (The Preacher's Commentary) Ronald Allen - “The sense of order and organization already observed in this book comes to its finest point in this chapter. Again, we observe that the standard pattern in Hebrew prose is a movement from the general to the specific, from the broad to the particular. Chapters 1–4 follow this concept nicely. . . . The chapters have moved from the nation as a whole to the particular families of the one tribe that has responsibility to maintain the symbols of Israel’s worship of the Lord. Each chapter gets more specific, more narrow in focus, with the central emphasis on the worship of the Lord at the Tent of Meeting.” (EBC) Numbers 4:5 "When the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons shall go in and they shall take down the veil of the screen and cover the ark of the testimony with it; when: Nu 2:16,17 10:14 Aaron: Nu 4:15 3:27-32 they shall: Ex 26:31-33 36:35 40:3 Isa 25:7 Mt 27:51 Heb 9:3 10:20 and cover: Ex 25:10-22 37:1-9 2Sa 6:2-9 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: Exodus 26:31+ “You shall make a veil of blue and purple and scarlet material and fine twisted linen; it shall be made with cherubim, the work of a skillful workman. Ark of the Testimony When the camp sets out - Hebrew. nasa,"in the breaking or pulling up." The signal for setting forward was the removal of the pillar of cloud. Aaron and his sons shall go in and they shall take down (Heb. horidu, shall cause to descend.) the veil of the screen (Ex 26:31+) and cover the ark of the testimony with it - The Ark of the Testimony was to be covered with the veil that hung between the holy place and the most holy place. Note that Aaron and his sons are "Kohathites" but are separated from others in this group. Therefore when the tabernacle was moved, the Aaronic priests were to go in and cover the tabernacle furniture and the tabernacle vessels and prepare these things for transportation. Only after this was done could the non-priestly Kohathites go in and handle the holy things, such as lifting them to carry them upon their shoulders (See poles above in Ark of the Testimony) to the next camping place. TSK has an interesting note regarding access of the priest to the Holy of Holies - The law prohibiting any person, except the high priest on one day in the year (Day of Atonement), to enter into the most holy place (Holy of Holies), must have admitted an exception while the Israelites were in the wilderness: that exception, therefore, is here expressly made; and the directions given respecting it must be religiously observed, or the service could not be safely performed. While the cloud rested on the tabernacle, the general rule was in force; but when it was removed, then the priests might enter to prepare the sacred vessels for removal. Bush agrees writing on Aaron and his sons shall go in that "The express law prohibiting any one except the high-priest once a year, entering into the most holy place, which held good while the cloud rested on the tabernacle, must have admitted an exception when it was about to be taken up. Then the inferior priests might enter to prepare the sacred vessels for removal." Wenham - The different vessels of the tabernacle were wrapped in different coloured cloths marking their different degrees of holiness. The most holy ark, the very throne of God, was wrapped first in the veil, then in a covering of goatskin (AV 'badgers' skins', NEB 'porpoise-hide'), and finally in a blue cloth. The vessels from the next most holy part of the tabernacle were wrapped in a blue cloth, then in an outer goatskin covering (Num 4:7-12). The altar for burnt offering that stood in the court of the tabernacle was wrapped first in a purple cloth, and then in a goatskin cover. Thus, when the camp was on the move, the ark was distinguished from all the other pieces of furniture by its blue outer cover. The same set of colours was used in the tabernacle. Deep blue curtains were used in the holy of holies, purple in the holy place, and the outer cover was again of goatskin. Undoubtedly these colours had significance, but discovering what they signified is difficult.(TOTC-Nu) Numbers 4:6 and they shall lay a covering of porpoise skin on it, and shall spread over it a cloth of pure blue, and shall insert its poles. a cloth: Nu 4:7,8,11-13 Ex 35:19 39:1,41 the poles: Ex 25:13-15 1Ki 8:7,8 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Exodus 25:14; 15+ “You shall put the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark, to carry the ark with them. 15 “The poles shall remain in the rings of the ark; they shall not be removed from it. PROTECTIVE COVERING ON ARK AND VEIL and they shall lay a covering of porpoise skin on it - Remember that they refers to Aaron and his sons and not the Kohathites who were to carry these items. This was not the covering of skins made for the tabernacle, which was carried by the Gershonites, (Nu 4:24, 25,) but one made for the purpose of concealing and sheltering the ark when it was to be carried. It was like the upper layer of the Tabernacle covering, and was to be added to shield it from the weather. NET Note on porpoise skin - The exact meaning of the Hebrew word here is difficult to determine. The term תַּחַשׁ (takhash) has been translated “badgers’ [skins]” by KJV. ASV has “sealskin” while RSV uses “goatskin”; NEB and NASB have “porpoise skin,” and NIV has “hides of sea cows.” This is close to “porpoise,” and seems influenced by the Arabic. The evidence is not strong for any of these meanings, and some of the suggestions would be problematic. It is possible the word is simply used for “fine leather,” based on the Egyptian ths. This has been followed by NRSV (“fine leather”) and NLT (“fine goatskin leather”) along with the present translation. See further HALOT 1720–21 s.v. תַּחַשׁ. and shall spread over it a cloth of pure blue, and shall insert its poles - The poles were in place (see Ex 25:15) Note that covering of pure blue over the ark was not covered with anything else as were the other articles in the Tabernacle, which would make it clearly visible when they marched out. Spurgeon on pure blue - Blue was the token of holiness, — of separation. Hence, every Israelite wore a border of blue upon his garment, but this, which was the symbol of the divine presence, was “all of blue.” It is all holiness. We wear, alas! but a border of blue, but this holy thing was “all of blue.” THOUGHT - Just as the pure blue covering made God's presence with Israel ever visible, so too God is "visible" to us in our wilderness journey, as we gaze on His the pure milk of His Word. Are you gazing daily or just glancing occasionally (cf Mt 4:4+, Lk 4:4+). Summary of the coverings and colors: Porpoise skin - Nu 4:6 Blue cloth -Nu 4:6 for ark and only outside Purple cloth - Nu 4:13 - alone had purple cloth Scarlet cloth - Nu 4:8 - Table of Shewbread Norman Geisler - NUMBERS 4:6—Were the staves to remain in the Ark or to be removed? PROBLEM: According to Exodus 25:15, “The poles shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it.” But, in the Numbers passage it says that when the ark was moved by the Levites “they shall insert its poles.” This seems to be conflicting instructions. SOLUTION: The Hebrew word for “insert” (sum or sim) has a wide range of meanings, including, leave, put, place, set, and turn. Hence, it may mean no more than the priests were to fasten or adjust the poles when they moved the ark so that it did not slip when being moved. This would make sense in view of the command not to remove the poles from the ark. (When Critics Ask) Numbers 4:7 "Over the table of the bread of the Presence they shall also spread a cloth of blue and put on it the dishes and the pans and the sacrificial bowls and the jars for the drink offering, and the continual bread shall be on it. the table: Ex 25:23-30 37:10-16 Lev 24:5-8 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Exodus 25:23-30+ “You shall make a table of acacia wood, two cubits long and one cubit wide and one and a half cubits high. 24“You shall overlay it with pure gold and make a gold border around it. 25 “You shall make for it a rim of a handbreadth around it; and you shall make a gold border for the rim around it. 26 “You shall make four gold rings for it and put rings on the four corners which are on its four feet. 27 “The rings shall be close to the rim as holders for the poles to carry the table. 28 “You shall make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold, so that with them the table may be carried. 29 “You shall make its dishes and its pans and its jars and its bowls with which to pour drink offerings; you shall make them of pure gold. 30 “You shall set the bread of the Presence on the table before Me at all times. Table of Bread of the Presence THE TABLE OF FACES TRANSPORTATION Over the table of the bread of the Presence (literally "table of faces")(7x - Ex 25:30; 35:13; 39:36; Nu 4:7; 1 Sa 21:6; 1 Ki 7:48; 2 Chr 4:19) they shall also spread a cloth of - They again refers to Aaron and his sons. The Kohathites carried the furniture on their shoulders with the carrying poles. They had no carts assigned to them as did the other Levites. Spurgeon - When they moved the sacred table, the bread was always there; twelve cakes for the twelve tribes, for the bread of God’s house is never lacking. Numbers 4:8 "They shall spread over them a cloth of scarlet material, and cover the same with a covering of porpoise skin, and they shall insert its poles. Nu 4:6,7,9,11-13 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries They (Aaron and his sons) shall spread over them a cloth of scarlet material, and cover the same with a covering of porpoise skin, and they shall insert its poles - See depiction above for poles inserted. Currid suggests that "the table appears to rank higher than the other sacred objects (OTHER THAN THE ARK) because it has three layers of covering like the ark—the other holy pieces only have two coverings....Directions for the preparation of this bread and how it is to be used in the ritual of the tabernacle are found in Leviticus 24:5–9+. (EPSC-Nu) Numbers 4:9 "Then they shall take a blue cloth and cover the lampstand for the light, along with its lamps and its snuffers, and its trays and all its oil vessels, by which they serve it; Ex 25:31-39 37:17-24 Ps 119:105 Rev 1:20 2:1 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries The Lampstand Then they shall take a blue cloth and cover the lampstand for the light, along with its lamps and its snuffers, and its trays and all its oil vessels, by which they serve it - Note that last phrase by which they serve it which simply reiterates that this covering of holy items was by Aaron and his sons for they were the only ones who could serve it (the lampstand). Note that every item of the Tabernacle was covered before moving (Nu 4:5, 7, 9, etc). Numbers 4:10 and they shall put it and all its utensils in a covering of porpoise skin, and shall put it on the carrying bars. Nu 4:6,12 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries and they (Aaron and his sons) shall put it and all its utensils in a covering of porpoise skin, and shall put it on the carrying bar - The carrying bar is "one word in Hebrew, and it is used in Numbers 13:23 of two men carrying a cluster of grapes suspended from a pole. The NEB translates the term as ‘slung from a pole’. Precisely how the menorah is attached in suspension is a mystery." (Currid) NET Note - The “pole” or “bar” (מוֹט, mot) is of a different style than the poles used for transporting the ark. It seems to be a flexible bar carried by two men with the implements being transported tied to the bar. The NEB suggests the items were put in a bag and slung over the bar, but there is no indication of the manner. Numbers 4:11 "Over the golden altar they shall spread a blue cloth and cover it with a covering of porpoise skin, and shall insert its poles; Ex 30:1-19 37:25-28 39:38 40:5,26,27 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Over the golden altar they (Aaron and his sons) shall spread a blue cloth and cover it with a covering of porpoise skin, and shall insert its poles Numbers 4:12 and they shall take all the utensils of service, with which they serve in the sanctuary, and put them in a blue cloth and cover them with a covering of porpoise skin, and put them on the carrying bars. Nu 4:7,9 3:8 Ex 25:9 31:10 2Ki 25:14,15 1Ch 9:29 2Ch 4:11,16,19,22 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries And they (Aaron and his sons) shall take all the utensils of service, with which they serve in the sanctuary, and put them in a blue cloth and cover them with a covering of porpoise skin, and put them on the carrying bars - Note again the phrase with which they serve referring to Aaron and his sons. Numbers 4:13 "Then they shall take away the ashes from the altar, and spread a purple cloth over it. Nu 4:6-9,11,12 Ex 27:3-5 39:1,41 Lev 6:12,13 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Altar of Burnt Offering Then they (Aaron and his sons) shall take away the ashes from the altar, and spread a purple cloth over it - This is the bronze altar in the courtyard of the Tabernacle. Numbers 4:14 "They shall also put on it all its utensils by which they serve in connection with it: the firepans, the forks and shovels and the basins, all the utensils of the altar; and they shall spread a cover of porpoise skin over it and insert its poles. all the vessels thereof: Ex 38:1-7 2Ch 4:19 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Laver of Bronze Before Entrance to Tent of Meeting They (Aaron and his sons) shall also put on it all its utensils by which they serve in connection with it: the firepans, the forks and shovels and the basins, all the utensils of the altar; and they shall spread a cover of porpoise skin over it and insert its poles Currid - The laver is not included in the description of the furnishings to be packaged by the priests and carried by the Kohathites. The reason for this omission is uncertain. Both the Septuagint and the Samaritan Pentateuch recognized the problem and therefore added to the text: ‘And they shall take a purple cloth and they shall cover the laver and its base. And they shall set over them a covering of porpoise skin. Then they shall set it upon the carrying frame.’ Numbers 4:15 "When Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy objects and all the furnishings of the sanctuary, when the camp is to set out, after that the sons of Kohath shall come to carry them, so that they will not touch the holy objects and die. These are the things in the tent of meeting which the sons of Kohath are to carry. Nu 7:9 10:21 De 31:9 Jos 4:10 2Sa 6:13 1Ch 15:2,15 Nu 3:38 Ex 19:12 1Sa 6:19 2Sa 6:6,7 1Ch 13:9,10 Heb 12:18-29 These things: Nu 3:30,31 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries HOLY THINGS UNTOUCHABLE When Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy objects and all the furnishings of the sanctuary - This would have been quite a job for just 3 men Aaron and his sons. when the camp is to set out, after that the sons of Kohath shall come to carry them, so that they will not touch the holy objects and die. These are the things in the tent of meeting which the sons of Kohath are to carry - Only Aaron and his sons was allowed to see or touch the sacred implements within the sanctuary (Nu 4:15, 19, 20) lest that person touch (or see) them and die. Service to Yahweh was serious business! And it still is beloved! Related Passage: Nu 18:3+ And they shall thus attend to your obligation and the obligation of all the tent, but they shall not come near to the furnishings of the sanctuary and the altar, or both they and you will die.
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Spurgeon - This is a very awful (ED: In sense of "commanding awe") thing; I mean, something which should produce a great awe and solemnity in our hearts. These men were chosen to carry the vessels of the most holy place, yet they must never see them. They must be covered up by the hands of the priest, and they must never touch them. They must bear them by their staves, or upon the bar upon which they were placed. Oh, how terrible a thing it is to draw near to God. The Lord our God is a jealous God. He will be served with holy reverence; or not at all. Hence he says to Moses and Aaron, “Take care that you do not lead these men into any mistake. You go in first, and point out to each man what he is to carry. See that all is covered up, for if you do not, they may die in their work. Do not be accessories to their act, and bring upon them this terrible judgment.” I often wish that God’s people would be careful not to cause sin in any of his servants when they are engaged in the divine ministry. Perhaps in preaching, or otherwise, there may be something done which vexes the Holy Spirit, and causes trouble and sin. And, oh! he who stands in the holy place, and bears the holiest of the vessels, needs to fear and tremble before God; and he needs to ask his brethren to see that they do nothing which might inadvertently cause him to sin. Load (04853) see note on massa' F B
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Spurgeon - There was a wise decision of labour. I wish we had the same kind of thing in every church, and that every member occupied himself in that to which God has appointed him. But there are some who want to do what they cannot do, and who do not care to do what they can do. Loads (04853) see note on massa' Numbers 4:28 "This is the service of the families of the sons of the Gershonites in the tent of meeting, and their duties shall be under the direction of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest. Nu 4:33 1Co 12:5,6 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries ITHAMAR TO SUPERVISE THE WORK OF GERSHONITES This is the service of the families of the sons of the Gershonites in the tent of meeting, and their duties shall be under the direction of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest - Aaron's only other living son, Eleazar supervised the tabernacles holiest things so was clearly given a position above Ithamar. Eleazar would eventually take Aaron's place when he died. THOUGHT - The lines of authority and accountability were clearly communicated to all. As you function with others in service to God, make sure the lines of authority between you and those you work with are clearly understood. Good communication builds good relationships. (LASB) See above on tent of meeting. Numbers 4:29 "As for the sons of Merari, you shall number them by their families, by their fathers' households; Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries NUMBERING OF THE MERARITES As for the sons of Merari, you shall number them by their families, by their fathers' households Numbers 4:30 from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, you shall number them, everyone who enters the service to do the work of the tent of meeting. service: Heb. warfare, Nu 4:3,23 Ps 110:1-7 1Ti 6:11,12 2Ti 2:4 4:7,8 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, you shall number them, everyone who enters the service to do the work of the tent of meeting See above on tent of meeting. Numbers 4:31 "Now this is the duty of their loads, for all their service in the tent of meeting: the boards of the tabernacle and its bars and its pillars and its sockets, duty: Nu 3:36,37 7:8,9 the boards: Ex 26:15 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Now this is the duty of their loads, for all their service in the tent of meeting: the boards of the tabernacle and its bars and its pillars and its sockets - The Merarites are to carry the tabernacle boards, bars, pillars, and sockets (Nu 4:31, 32) on four wagons drawn by eight oxen, for Nu 7:8+ tells us "four carts and eight oxen he gave to the sons of Merari, according to their service, under the direction of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest."
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Spurgeon - They had the heaviest load to carry, but they were the more numerous. They carried the solid columns upon which the covering of the tabernacle rested. And notice that they had also to carry the pins. Sometimes, God’s servants dislike carrying pins. They feel themselves too big, but blessed is that servant who, in his place, can be content to carry “their sockets, and their pins, and their cords, with all their instruments.” Jensen - The Lord knew the details of the objects used in the worship service, and He provided for their care by the ministry of the Levites. They must have been impressed by the meticulous care which He wanted them to exercise in His work. They must have learned the lesson that each service is as important as the next. For instance, what would be the point of the coverings and enclosures (Gershonites’ responsibility) without the contents, such as ark or laver (Kohathites’ responsibility)? Or how could there be a tabernacle without the boards and bars (Merarites’ responsibility)? THOUGHT - "Who would ever think of calling fleshhooks, shovels, basins (Nu 4:14), pins, cords, sockets, pillars (Nu 4:32), dishes, spoons, bowls (Nu 4:7) something spiritual? Only God! Who would work with pins for 25 years and be happy? Only Levites! Why? They were told by God to do this work, service, burden. Now....what has God saved you to do in His body, the Church? Then "just do it!" (Raymond Saxe). Carry (04853) see note on massa' Numbers 4:33 "This is the service of the families of the sons of Merari, according to all their service in the tent of meeting, under the direction of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest." under the hand: Nu 4:28 Jos 3:6 Isa 3:6 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries ITHAMAR TO SUPERVISE THE WORK OF MERARITES This is the service of the families of the sons of Merari, according to all their service in the tent of meeting, under the direction of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest See above on tent of meeting. Currid applies this section on Merari - In the chiastic structure of verse 29, God impresses upon Moses that he is certainly to take a census of the Merarites. Although that clan’s duties are not as important or set apart as those of the other clans of the Levites, the fact is that even their work is to be done properly, at the right time and in good order. And it is to be done strictly according to God’s word. There is a good lesson here for the church. As we labour for Christ, no matter what our individual calling as Christians—whether it be as a pastor, or a lawyer, or a housewife, or whatever—we are to do it in the right manner, and that is according to the Word of God and to his glory. As Paul so wonderfully says, ‘So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God’ (1 Cor. 10:31). And, thus, whether our labours are menial or not, we are to bring all things under the lordship of Jesus Christ. (EPSC Nu) Numbers 4:34 So Moses and Aaron and the leaders of the congregation numbered the sons of the Kohathites by their families and by their fathers' households, Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries So Moses and Aaron and the leaders of the congregation numbered the sons of the Kohathites by their families and by their fathers' households Matthew Henry on Nu 4:34-39 - Observe — 1. That the Kohathites were in all eight thousand and six hundred, from a month old and upward: but of those there were but two thousand seven hundred and fifty serviceable men, not a third part. The Gershonites in all seven thousand and five hundred: and of them but two thousand six hundred and thirty serviceable men, little more than a third part. Note — Of the many that add to the numbers of the Church, there are comparatively but few that contribute to the service of it. So it has been, and so it is; many have a place in the tabernacle, that do but little of the work of the tabernacle (Philippians 2:20, 21). 2. That the Merarites were but six thousand and two hundred in all; and yet of these there were three thousand and two hundred serviceable men, which were a good deal above half. The greatest burden lay upon that family, the boards, and pillars, and sockets. And God so ordered it, that though they were the fewest in number, yet they should have the most able men among them; for whatever service God calls men to, He will furnish them for it, and give strength in proportion to the work, grace sufficient. 3. The whole number of the able men of the tribe of Levi, which entered into God's host to war His warfare, was but eight thousand five hundred and eighty; whereas the able men of the other tribes that entered into the host of Israel to war their warfare were many more. The least of the tribes had almost four times as many able men as the Levites, and some of them more than eight times as many. For those that are engaged in the service of this world, and war after the flesh, are many more than those that are devoted to the service of God, and fight the good fight of faith. Numbers 4:35 from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, everyone who entered the service for work in the tent of meeting. Nu 4:3,23,30,39,43,47 8:24-26 1Ch 23:3,24,26,27 28:13 Lu 3:23 1Ti 3:6 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, everyone who entered the service for work in the tent of meeting See above on tent of meeting. Power running to waste - We are told sometimes of the vast power unutilised as the waters leap over the Falls of Niagara; in fact, statisticians have given us calculations of the marvellous saving of steam, which means coal, which means money, that might thus be saved. We are not sure but that it has been proved that there is power enough, if it could be communicated, to give electric light to the whole continent, and no one who has walked along the banks of the Niagara River for two or three miles above the Falls, and studied the tremendous force of the current, will hesitate to doubt such statements. Is there not in this a parable? There is a whole Niagara of Christian power running to waste in our land — power that if utilised would flash the light of salvation over the world, and bring in the perfect day of Christ's kingdom on earth. Take any of our churches, what are a large portion of the members doing? Absolutely nothing — they are in their places on the Sabbath, and just possibly at the weekly prayer-meeting; beyond that what? But, "I can do so little." Oh, my friend, pug your little and a thousand littles of your brethren together, and it would make a power that by the grace of God would be irresistible. Niagara is but the united power of a thousand streams far, far away. Numbers 4:36 Their numbered men by their families were 2,750. Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Their numbered men by their families were 2,750 C H Spurgeon - The Numbered People - I. Here is AUTHORITY FOR THE MUSTER-ROLL — "According to the commandment of the Lord they were numbered." It was not left to Moses to number the people without Divine sanction, else the deed might have been as evil in the sight of the Lord as that of David when he made a census of the nation: neither may any man at this day summon the saints of the Lord at his own discretion to enterprises for which they were never set apart. The armies of Israel are none of ours to lead whither we will, nor even to reckon up that the number may be told to our own honour. 1. Believers in Christ Jesus, you are now called forth to do suit and service, because like the tribe of Levi you are the Lord's. He views you as the church of the firstborn, as the redeemed from among men, and as His peculiar inheritance, and therefore above all other men you are under His special rule and governance. 2. You are further called because this is a charge laid upon you of the Lord, to whom you specially belong. The Levites were not numbered with the rest of the nation, for their vocation was altogether different, and their whole business was "about holy things." Ye see in this your calling, for hereunto are ye also ordained that ye may live unto the Lord alone. 3. The Lord may well call you to this service, seeing He has given you to His Son, even as He gave the Levites to Aaron, as it is written (Numbers 3:9), "They are wholly given unto him out of the children of Israel." Because ye belong to Christ, therefore hide not yourselves from His service, but come forward with alacrity. 4. The Lord has constituted you the servants of all His people, even as He said of the Levites that they were to "do the service of the children of Israel in the tabernacle of the congregation." We are debtors to all our brethren, and we are their servants to the full extent of our power. II. Notice THE APPOINTMENT OF THE INDIVIDUALS — "Every one according to his service, and according to his burden." By our varied gifts, positions, offices, and opportunities, we are as much set apart to special services as were the sons of Kohath, &c. Great evils arise out of persons mistaking their calling, and undertaking things of which they are not capable; and, on the other hand, the success of Christian work in a large measure arises out of places of usefulness being filled by the right men. III. Our text is the summary of the chapter in which we have an ACCOUNT OF THE ACTUAL FULFILMENT OF THE LORD'S COMMAND BY MOSES. He numbered each family, and cast up the total of the tribe, at the same time mentioning in detail the peculiar service of each. We would imitate him at this important moment, and take the census of those who are consecrated to the Lord's own service. 1. Where are you, then, who can bear the heavier service of the sanctuary, carrying its pillars, and the boards, and the sockets thereof? You are now needed to speak in the meetings, to lead the people in prayer, to order the assemblies, and to take the heavier work of this holy business. The Lord Jesus should have able men to speak for Him; He deserves the best of the best. Now is the hour, where is the man? Let no diffidence or love of ease keep one back who might make known the gospel and win a soul for Jesus. 2. But where are you who can only carry the pins and the cords? Your burden is lighter, but probably your strength is also less, and lighter though your load may be, the matters which you carry are quite as essential as the pillars and the boards. Where are you? You who can say a few words to lonely inquiring ones; you who can do no more than pray, where are you? At your posts, or idling? Answer quickly, for time and need are pressing. If the load which you can carry be so very small, be all the more ready to bear it. 3. Are you a lover of the Lord Jesus and do you wish to be omitted from the roll-call? If so, let it be known to yourself, and stated plainly to your conscience. Do not pretend to be a labourer and remain a loiterer, but openly avow to your own soul that you stand all the day idle, and feel fully justified in so doing. Numbers 4:37 These are the numbered men of the Kohathite families, everyone who was serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD through Moses. Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries These are the numbered men of the Kohathite families, everyone who was serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD through Moses See above on tent of meeting. Numbers 4:38 The numbered men of the sons of Gershon by their families and by their fathers' households, Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries The numbered men of the sons of Gershon by their families and by their fathers' households Numbers 4:39 from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, everyone who entered the service for work in the tent of meeting. Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, everyone who entered the service for work in the tent of meeting See above on tent of meeting. Numbers 4:40 Their numbered men by their families, by their fathers' households, were 2,630. Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Their numbered men by their families, by their fathers' households, were 2,630 Numbers 4:41 These are the numbered men of the families of the sons of Gershon, everyone who was serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD. Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries OBEDIENCE TO COMMANDMENT OF THE LORD These are the numbered men of the families of the sons of Gershon, everyone who was serving in the tent of meeting, whom Moses and Aaron numbered according to the commandment of the LORD See above on tent of meeting. Numbers 4:42 The numbered men of the families of the sons of Merari by their families, by their fathers' households, Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries The numbered men of the families of the sons of Merari by their families, by their fathers' households Numbers 4:43 from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, everyone who entered the service for work in the tent of meeting. Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries from thirty years and upward even to fifty years old, everyone who entered the service for work in the tent of meeting See above on tent of meeting. Numbers 4:44 Their numbered men by their families were 3,200. Nu 3:34 De 33:25 1Co 10:13 12:8-12 2Co 12:9,10 Numbers 4 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Their numbered men by their families were 3,200. Currid has an interesting application - The fact that the Merarites, the clan with the smallest number of males of one month old and higher, have an unusually large proportion of the total number of males in the service of the tabernacle is worthy of consideration. Matthew
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Spurgeon - “It is worthy of note that these Levites, although they were all equally consecrated to God, had not all exactly the same work to perform. God is not the God of all uniformity. There is a wondrous unity of plan and design in all that he does, but there is also an equally marvelous variety.” Gilbrant - Here ends Moses’ work of organizing the army and the Levitical assistants to the tabernacle worship. Now Israel is prepared to follow God to the Promised Land.