I
Published on Sunday, 17 April 2011 15:07 | Written by Administrator | | | Hits: 9211
What We Can Learn From The Levites
All of those who worked in the service of the Tabernacle were from the Levites (tribes descended from Levi). The Levites were the tribes assigned the priestly duties of caring for the Tabernacle and its furnishings. In this sense all of the Levite men of appropriate age were priests.
Nevertheless, not all Levite clans were permitted to serve in the priestly ministries assigned to those who served in the Tent of Meeting. These men, decenants of Aaron, were a select group from one of the clans within the tribes of Levites, chosen and designated priests by God to serve in the Tent of Meeting. These Levites were types of the true believers of the past, present and future.
Each group within the tribes of Levites were assigned specific responsibilities in service to God and the rest of the Israelite tribes. These groups and their responsibilities will be discussed in detail clan by clan in this chapter.
First, however, it is important to point out that God even gave attention to, and used their position in the marching order and setting up of the camp, to minister to the other tribes.
The Command:
The Lord said to Moses and Aaron; "The Israelites are to camp around the Tent of Meeting some distance from it, each man under his standard with the banners of his family." Numbers 2:1-2 NIV (italics mine).
"Whenever the tabernacle is to move, the Levites are to take it down, and whenever the tabernacle is to be set up, the Levites shall do it. Anyone else who goes near it shall be put to death. The Israelites are to set up their tents by divisions, each man in his own camp under his own standard. The Levites, however, are to set up their tents around the tabernacle of the Testimony so that wrath will not fall on the Israelite community. The Levites are to be responsible for the care of the tabernacle of the Testimony." Numbers 1:51-53 NIV (italics mine).
Here we see God directing that the Levites, the tribe anointed for priesthood, were the only ones to take down, transport and set up the Tabernacle. Furthermore, they were to set their camp right around the Tabernacle. By contrast the other tribes were to stay some distance back from it. So the Levites camped closely around the Tabernacle providing a buffer zone between the Tabernacle and the Israelite community.
This was done in the following manner:
-
On the east side, in front of the Tabernacle, were the tribes of Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun. Also on the east side, between these three tribes and the east fence of the courtyard where the gate was located, Moses, Aaron and Aaron’s sons (Levites) were camped providing a buffer zone between the tribes and the courtyard.
On the east, toward the sunrise, the divisions of the camp of Judah are to encamp under their standard.--.Numbers 2:3 NIV (italics mine).
The tribe of Issachar will camp next to them. --. Numbers 2:5 NIV (italics mine).
The tribe of Zebulun will be next. --.Numbers 2:7 NIV (italics mine).
All the men assigned to the camp of Judah, according to their divisions, number 186,400. They will set out first. Numbers 2:9 NIV (italics mine).
Moses and Aaron and his sons were to camp to the east of the tabernacle, toward the sunrise, in front of the Tent of Meeting. Numbers 3:38 NIV (italics mine).
-
On the south side the tribes of Reuben, Simeon and Gad were camped with the Kohathites ( a Levite clan) camped between them and the Tabernacle.
On the south will be the divisions of the camp of Reuben under their standard. Numbers 2:10 NIV (italics mine).
The tribe of Simeon will camp next to them. Numbers 2:12 NIV (italics mine).
The tribe of Gad will be next. Numbers 2:14 NIV (italics mine).
All the men assigned to the camp of Reuben, according to their divisions, number 151,450. They will set out second. Numbers 2:16 NIV (italics mine).
The Kohathite clans were to camp on the south side of the tabernacle. Numbers 3:29 NIV (italics mine).
-
At the west end the tribes of Ephraim, Manasseh and Benjamin were camped with the Gershonites (a Levite clan) between them and the Tabernacle.
On the west will be the divisions of the camp of Ephraim under their standard. Numbers 2:18 NIV (italics mine).
The tribe of Manasseh will be next to them. Numbers 2:20 NIV (italics mine).
the tribe of Benjamin will be next. Numbers 2:22 NIV (italics mine).
All the men assigned to the camp of ephraim, according to their divisions, number 108,100. they will set out third. Numbers 2:24 NIV (italics mine).
The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west, behind the tabernacle. Numbers 3:23 NIV (italics mine)
-
Lastly, the tribes of Dan, Asher and Naphtali were camped on the north. Camped between them and the north fence of the Tabernacle, providing their buffer zone were the Merarites (a Levite clan).
On the north will be the divisions of the camp of Dan, under their standard. Numbers 2:25 NIV (italics mine).
The tribe of Asher will camp next to them. Numbers 2:27 NIV (italics mine).
The tribe of Naphtali will be next. Numbers 2:29 NIV (italics mine).
All the men assigned to the camp of Dan number 157,600. They will set out last, under their standards. Numbers 2:31 NIV (italics mine).
The leader of the families of the Merarite clans was Zuriel son of Abihail; they were to camp on the north side of the tabernacle. Numbers 3:35 NIV (italics mine).
This was much like the command that God gave at Mount Sinai.
"The Lord descended to the top of Mount Sinai and called Moses to the top of the mountain. So Moses went up and the Lord said to him, " Go down and warn the people so they do not force their way through to see the Lord and many of them perish. Even the priests, who approach the Lord must consecrate themselves, or the Lord will break out against them." Exodus 19:20-22 NIV (italics mine).
This carries a familiar message which is that only that which is pure, holy and consecrated can be in the presence of God. Only those who have been cleansed by the appropriation of the blood of Christ and sanctified (dedicated, purified, set apart) by the word of God anointed by the Holy Spirit can approach the throne of God. God greatly desires our presence but He doesn’t want us tracking the filth (sin) of the world into His Holy Tabernacle.
Lest someone get the idea that I am saying that Christians are better than others or that I think we are "so righteous", let me make it very clear, here and now, that I certainly know better than that. In fact, I have known more than one unbeliever who lived, in many ways, more righteously than many believers including yours truly. Nevertheless, they are lost, unless they accept Jesus Christ as their Savior.
Real Christianity has less to do with behavior and more to do with relationship. The relationship is based upon faith. True Christians are not chosen because they are sinless. They are chosen because God is merciful and gracious. They are sinless because they believe God when he says he will remove the sins and make them sons and joint heirs with Jesus Christ.
By faith Able offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. Hebrews 11:4 NIV (italics mine).
15 "We who are Jews by birth and not 'Gentile sinners' 16 know that a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by observing the law, because by observing the law no one will be justified. Gal 2:15-16 NIV (italics mine).
This is not to say that true believers never sin -- only that they are forgiven (see: Appendix #4, Separation of the Holy from the Common).
Levites could start their work of service taking down the Tabernacle, carrying it, setting it up, cutting wood, carrying water, etc. at the age of twenty-five years. But here we see that God established the first retirement plan by commanding that their regular labors were to cease at the age of fifty.
The LORD said to Moses. "This applies to the Levites: Men twenty-five years old or more shall come to take part in the work at the Tent of Meeting, but at the age of fifty, they must retire from their regular service and work no longer. They may assist their brothers in performing their duties at the Tent of Meeting, but they themselves must not do the work. This then, is how you are to assign the responsibilities of the Levites." Numbers 8:24-26NIV (italics mine).
This command, however, did not apply to the priesthood activities of the Kohathite tribe. Their priestly duties did not begin until the age of thirty.
The LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "Take a census of the Kohathite branch of the Levites by their clans and families. Count all the men from thirty to fifty years of age who come to serve in the work of the Tent of Meeting." Numbers 4:1-3 NIV (italics mine).
They, like the other Levites, were to cease their regular work at the age of fifty. We have, of course, encountered the numbers thirty and fifty several times before. Thirty implies maturity and readiness for ministry and service while fifty is the number of Jubilee and freedom.
The Levite Tribes
There were three distinct tribes among the Levites and several clans within each tribe. The tribes of the Levites as listed in scripture were:
-
Kohathite
-
Gershonite
-
Merarite
This is significant because each tribe had specific assigned duties. I have listed the tribes above in the order they are mentioned in scripture. Nevertheless, as we consider their specific duties we will consider them in reverse order, the order in which their duties would have necessarily been performed in setting up the Tabernacle.
For example: the foundation had to be laid, the walls assembled and roof put on, before the ark, lamp and altar could be placed inside. To take down the Tabernacle in preparation for moving they would have entered the Tabernacle area according to the order shown in scripture. But in setting up the Tabernacle they would have had to perform their assigned duties in reverse order from that shown in scripture, that is; the Merarites first then the Gershonites and lastly the Kohathites. This is borne out by the instructions from the Lord regarding their respective positions in the procession as they moved from one location to another:
"-- The divisions of the camp of Juda went first, under their standard. Nahshon son of Amminadab was in command. Nethanel son of Zuar was over the division of the tribe of Issachar, and Eliab son of Helon was over the division of the tribe Zebulun. Then the tabernacle was taken down, and the Gershonites and Merarites who carried it, set out.
The divisions of the camp was over the division of the tribe of Manasseh, and Abidan son of Gideoni was over the division of Rueben went next, under their standard. Elizur son of Shedeur was in command. Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai was over the division of the tribe of Simeon, and Eliasaph son of Deuel was over the division of the tribe of Gad. Then the Kohathites set out, carrying the holy things. The tabernacle was to be set up before they arrived.
The divisions of the camp of Ephraim went next, under their standard. Elishama son of Aminihud was in command. Gamaliel son of Pedazur was over the division of the of Manesseh and Abidan son of Gidepmi was over the division of the tribe of Benjamin.
Finally, as the rear guard for all the units, the divisions of the camp of Dan set out under their standard. Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai was in command. Pagiel son of Ocran was over the division of the tribe of Asher, and Ahira son of Enan was over the division of the tribe of Naphtali. This was the order of march for the Israelite divisions as they set out.--" Numbers 10:14-28 NIV (italics mine).
With this in mind, the first duties for the assembling of the Tabernacle and its preparation for service, fell to the Merarite tribe, then the Gershonites and lastly the Kohathites. The reasons will be obvious as we continue.
The Merarite Tribe
The Command:
This is their duty as they perform service at the Tent of Meeting: to carry the frames of the tabernacle, its crossbars, posts and bases, as well as the posts of the surrounding courtyard with their bases, tent pegs, ropes, and all their equipment and everything related to their use. Assign to each man the specific thing he is to carry. This is the service of the Merarite clans as they work at the Tent of Meeting under the direction of Ithomar son of Aaron, the priest. Numbers 4:31-32 NIV (italics mine).
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance defines Merarite (Hebrew: Merariy) as follows:
Merariy, mer-aw-ree’; from marar; bitter; Merari, an Isr.; -- merari. -also- a Merarite (collect.) or desc. of Merari: -- Merarites.
marar, maw-rar’; a prim. root; prop. to trickle; but used only as a denom. from mar, mar; or (fem.); to be (causat. make) bitter (lit. or fig.): --(be, be in, deal, have, make) bitter (-ly, - ness), be moved with choler, (be, have sorely, it) grieved (-eth), provoke, vex.
The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance,Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990.
Two clans made up the Merarite tribe. These clans were the Mahlites and the Mushites,
To Merari belonged the clans of the Mahlites and the Mushites; these were the Merarites clans. Numbers 3:33 NIV (italics mine).
They were responsible for the wood posts, bases, ropes and stakes for the fence as well as the frames, cross bars, posts and bases of the Tent of Meeting.
The Merarites were appointed to take care of the tabernacle, its crossbars, posts, bases, all its equipment, and everything related to their use, as well as the posts of the surrounding courtyard with their bases, tent pegs and ropes. Numbers 3:36-37 NIV (italics mine).
It is obvious that the bases for the fence and foundation of the Tent of Meeting had to be laid first, before the fence could be erected or the tent walls put in their place. How absurd it would have been to have tried to hang the veil, courtyard entrance or the curtain at the entrance of the tent, before the bases, posts and boards were set in place. Even more so to have been trying to put the articles of service; the ark, lamp, table of shewbread and altar of incense in their places before everything else was in place.
Imagine the confusion that would have resulted if everyone was trying to do his job first or if people were trying to do other than their assigned jobs. Unfortunately this is what we often see in the church. We need to remember that God wants order in His service, and in His people, because He is a God of order -- not confusion!
The Merarites were symbolic of the missionaries, evangelists, and church founders who were to follow. There are, of course, missionaries and evangelists specially called of God to serve Him full time in their calling wherever He sends them. Nevertheless, Jesus has called every believer to serve Him and to be witnesses (evangelists/missionaries) right where they are. Sadly, many have chosen to ignore this part of His command.
It was the Merarites duty to establish the perimeter of the courtyard, by setting in place the bronze bases symbolizing judgment of sin and the fence posts symbolizing humanity, purity and perfection of Christ. This established the main boundaries of distinction between the holy and unholy. They set up the posts of the courtyard fence with their ropes and pegs portraying God’s love and the message of resurrection.
I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love; I lifted the yoke from their neck and bent down to feed them. Hosea 11:4 NIV (italics mine).
They were to lay the silver foundation bases of the tent symbolizing Christ crucified, set up the posts and boards symbolizing redeemed and committed servants. It was also their duty to secure the boards into units by inserting the four exterior rods representing the four gospels going out to the whole world and the fifth rod through the center of the boards symbolizing Christ in the believers heart. Securing the boards into wall units was symbolic of securing believers in unity with Christ in their hearts.
Consequently, you are now no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. Ephesians 2:19-22 NIV (italics mine).
The name Merarite indicates that these were descendants of Merari. But as we see from the definition the name implies;
trickle, to be (or make) bitter, be or cause to be, moved with choler (irritability or anger), grieve (d), provoke(d), vex(ed).
A reading of the work of the prophets and the book of Acts of the Apostles, makes it very clear that the work of carrying the Word of God to new peoples and territories can be bitter for both the messenger and those receiving the message. The life of Paul is a prime example. He was stoned, beaten, ship wrecked, imprisoned and ultimately executed. Those who accepted his message were often persecuted as well. Even those who rejected it were often tormented with guilt and angered by his message.
After the foundation was laid, the posts and frames set in place, and the pegs anchored, others would then build upon the work they had started. So it is in the church. Paul said:
By the grace that God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 NIV (italics mine).
Some begin the work, then others called to different service come in and begin developing the more in depth teaching, serving, and outreach ministries, as the church grows in numbers and in spiritual maturity. Those who began the work should not be offended or feel cheated when the time comes for someone else to take over, nor should those who take over feel superior or proud, all are part of God’s plan and all are doing His work - not their own.
The Gershonite Tribe
The Command:
" This is the work of the Gershonite clans as they work and carry burdens: They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, its covering and the outer covering of hides of sea cows, the curtains for the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, the curtains of the courtyard surrounding the tabernacle and altar, the curtain of the entrance, the ropes and all the equipment used in its service.--" Ex 4:24-26 NIV (italics mine).
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance defines Gershonite (Hebrew: Gereshunniy) as follows:
Gereshunniy, gay-resh-oon-nee’; patron. from Gereshowm; a Gereshonite or desc. of Gereshon;-- Gershonite, sons of Gershon.
Gereshown, gay-resh-one’; or Gereshowm, gay-resh-ome’; from Garash; a refugee; Gereshon orGereshom, an Isr.: -- Gershon, Gershom.
Garash, gaw-rash’; a prim. root; to drive out from a possession; espec. to expatriate or divorce: -- cast up (out), divorced (woman), drive away (forth, out), expel, X surely put away, trouble, thrust out.
The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990.
The Gershonite tribe consisted of the Libnite and Shimeite clans.
To Gershone belonged the clans of the Libnites and Shimeites; these were the Gershonite clans. Numbers 3:21 NIV (italics mine).
At the Tent of Meeting the Gershonites were responsible for the care of the tabernacle and tent, its coverings, the curtain at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, the curtains of the courtyard, the curtain at the entrance to the courtyard surrounding the tabernacle and altar, and the ropes -- and everything related to their use. Numbers 3:25-26 NIV (italics mine).
After the Merarite clans had laid the bases and set up the posts of the fence and their pegs and ropes the Gershonites could then hang the curtains of the fence and the entrance to the courtyard symbolizing the Law of God and Jesus who is the only way to gain redemption and fulfillment of God’s Law. This separated the courtyard (holy area) from the outside world (common or unholy area). It also symbolized the Law of God as the barrier between man and God, and showed that Jesus is the only way to gain entrance to God's kingdom.
What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said, "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."
Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord--."
2 Corinthians 6:16-17 NIV (italics mine).
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Matthew 7:13-14 NIV (italics mine).
"I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. --." John 10:1 NIV (italics mine).
"I am the way the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. --. John 14:6 NIV (italics mine).
Next the Gershonites would fasten the ropes of the gate symbolizing Jesus love for us.
I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love; I lifted the yoke from their neck and bent down to feed them. Hosea 11:4 NIV (italics mine).
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes on him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16 NIV (italics mine).
"Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28 NIV (italics mine).
W hen the foundation and walls with their rods, pegs and ropes were set in place by the Merarites, the Gershonites could place the four coverings over the Tent of Meeting symbolizing Jesus as servant, lamb, scapegoat and risen redeemer. These coverings formed the protective covering from the hot sun and the storms symbolic of the trials and tribulations of life. They would then fasten them in place with the ropes symbolizing God's love, and pegs symbolizing Jesus burial and resurrection.
The Gershonites could then hang the curtain at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting establishing the separation between the ministries of the Tent of Meeting from those of the courtyard.
T he Gershonites symbolized, I believe, the teaching ministries of the Church. It was their duty to place the white linen curtains of the fence and hang the gate establishing a clear separation of the Courtyard from the world outside. They carried and placed the coverings that formed the roof of the Tabernacle and provided protection from the storms and the burning desert sun. It was their job to fasten the ropes securely that held the gate and the coverings of the tent in place through desert storms.
It is for the teaching ministries to increase the new believers understanding of Jesus ministries to us; His suffering, His death, His removing of our sin, and His ascension to glory. It is also for them to teach the scriptures, the depth of God’s love, mercy and grace, and the love He wants us to have toward each other. It is this love and the faith it generates, that holds us firmly in place when the storms of trial and adversity come. The teachers should establish clear lines of separation between the children of God and the world. We must function in the world but clearly understand that we are not to belong to the world.
Gershonite, meaning a refugee, comes from the root Garash, gaw-rash’; meaning to drive out from a possession; to expatriate or divorce: -- cast up or out, drive forth or away.
It was the Gershonites who set up the separation between the holy and the commmon with greater clarity and definition. It is up to the teachers of truth to drive out false doctrine, eliminate ignorance of truth and establish clearly the difference between holiness and unholiness. We can recall how many who came to Jesus initially were soon offended as He taught them and then left when they gained understanding of what true discipleship required.
On hearing it, many of his disciples said,"This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?" John 6:30 NIV (italics mine).
From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. John 6:66 NIV (italics mine).
All common things must be cast out, divorced, driven away from the holy things of God. The life of the believer is to be continually in a cleansing process being sanctified by the Spirit and the Word. In the process we become alienated from this world and the things of this world. Where the things of this world are concerned we become strangers, pilgrims, refugees. Once this world was given to our ancestor, Adam. He forfeited his right to it by his sin. It has now become the habitation of the sinful and the god of this world, Satan.
"--Unless I go away, the counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteouness and judgment; in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned." John 16:7-11 NIV, (italics mine).
The Merarites set the boundaries by laying the bases for the Courtyard and Tent of Meeting and by setting up the posts of the fence and walls of the Tent of Meeting. Here we see that it was the Gershonites who had the duty to complete the separation of the courtyard from the world outside with the curtains of the fence and clearly establish the only way in by hanging the curtain, symbolizing Jesus, on the gate posts. It was they who were to separate the Courtyard ministries from the Holy Place by raising the curtain at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting and define to even greater degree the distinction between the holy and common.
Our churches are filled with people who have recognized their need for a god. Some have even recognized their need for a savior and entered the courtyard. Some, from this second group, have come to the altar and accepted Jesus as Savior and a few of these have established a fairly regular routine of prayer, church attendance, and Bible study.
Unfortunately, for too many progress ends here -- where it should begin. Precious few enter the much narrower door of the Tent of Meeting. Most of us do not really humble ourselves to say, " Father, thy will -- not my will be done". It is in the humbling of ourselves and the forsaking of our own will and selfish desires, as Jesus did at Gethsemane, that we receive the requisites for ministry.
He provides, if we submit to it; the cleansing of sanctification symbolized by the washing, preparation through building of our character which leads to recognition by others as leaders symbolized by dressing the priests in their priestly garments and finallyequipping us by the anointing of the Holy Spirit symbolized by the pouring of the anointing oil on the priests. (See: Appendix 2 ).
We cannot enter the Holy Place and draw nearer to God until we are prepared to humble ourselves to do His will by entering the priestly service He has assigned for each of us. This doesn’t mean He wants to call all of us to be full time pastors or missionaries. It does mean that He has called each of us to be full time Christians (followers of Christ). Jesus did say:
"If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" . Matthew 16:24 NIV (italics mine).
"If you love me you will obey what I command. " John 14:15 NIV (italics mine).
" Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Matthew 28:19-20 NIV (italics mine).
Jesus did not call us to be week-end actors -- but to be full time warriors!
You may not feel you have the knowledge, talent or ability for service, but you need to consider that Moses did not choose to deliver his people from Egypt, nor did he do it by his own wisdom and power. Aaron did not call himself, and his sons, into the priesthood, nor were they able to perform their duties appropriately by their own wisdom and knowledge. Remember Bezalel and Oholiab who were, not only chosen by God to make the articles of gold, silver and wood and the woven garments but also were,
"filled -- with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts --. " Exodus 31:2-6 NIV (italics mine).
It is God who calls us and, if we accept His will by faith, it is God who prepares and equips us for His service.
The Kohathite Tribe
The Command:
"Take a census of the Kohathite branch of the Levites by their clans and families. Count all the men from thirty to fifty years of age who come to serve in the work of the Tent of Meeting. This is the work of the Kohathites in the Tent of Meeting: the care of the most holy things. When the camp is to move, Aaron and his sons are to go in and take down the shielding curtain andcover the ark of the Testimony with it. Then they are to cover this with hides of sea cows, spread a cloth of solid blue over that and put the poles in place.
Over the table of the Presence they are to spread a blue cloth and put on it the plates, dishes and bowls, and the jars for drink offerings; the bread that is continually there is to remain on it. Over these they are to spread a scarlet cloth, cover that with hides of sea cows and put its poles in place.
They are to take a blue cloth and cover the lampstand that is for light, together with its lamps, its wick trimmers and trays, and all its jars for the oil used to supply it. Then they are to wrap it and all its accessories in a covering of hides of sea cows and put it on a carrying frame.
" Over the gold altar they are to spread ablue cloth and cover that with hides of sea cows and put its poles in place."
" They are to take all the articles used for ministering in the sanctuary, wrap them in a blue cloth, cover that with hides of sea cows and put them on a carrying frame. "
" They are to remove the ashes from thebronze altar and spread a purple clothover it. Then they are to place on it all the utensils used for ministering at the altar, including the firepans, meat forks, shovels and sprinkling bowls. Over it they are to spread a covering of hides of sea cows and put its poles in place."
"After Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy furnishings and all the holy articles, and when the camp is ready to move, the Kohathites are to come and do the carrying. But they must not touch the holy things or they will die. The Kohathites are to carry those things that are in the Tent of Meeting "
" Eleazar son of Aaron, the priest, is to have charge of the oil for the light, the fragrant incense, the regular grain offering and the anointing oil. He is to be in charge of the entire tabernacle and everything in it, including its holy furnishings and articles."
The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, " See that the Kohathite clans are not cut off from the Levites, So 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 into the sanctuary and assign to each man his work and what he is to carry. but the Kohathites must not go in to look at the holy things, even for a moment, or they will die."
Numbers 4:1-20 NIV (italics mine).
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance defines Kohathite (Hebrew: Qohawthiy) as follows:
Qohawthiy, ko-haw-thee’; patron. from Qehath; a Kohathite (collect.) or desc. of Kehath: -- Kohathites.
Qehath, keh-hawth’; from an unused root mean. to ally oneself; allied; Kehath, an Isr.: -- Kohath.
The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990.
The Kohathite clans were: Amram, Izhar, Hebron and Uzziel. Moses and Aaron were Kohathites of the clan of Amram.
Amram married his father’s sister Jochebed, who bore him Aaron and Moses. Amram lived 137 years. Exodus 6:20 NIV
(italics mine).
Although Moses and his brother Aaron were part of the Kohathite tribe, they and their descendants were treated as separate by God. Moses was God's anointed leader. Aaron and his male descendants were to be the priests. Although they were Kohathites of the Amramite clan Moses, Aaron and Aaron's descendants were assigned duties, authority and even instructions for setting up camp that resulted in their being separated as though they were a tribe unto themselves.
Moses and Aaron and his sons were to camp to the east of the tabernacle, toward the sunrise, in front of the Tent of Meeing. They were responsible for the care of the sanctuary on behalf of the Israaelites. Anyone else who approached the sanctuary was to be put to death. Numbers 3:38 NIV (italics mine).
The Kohathite clans were to camp on the south side of the tabernacle. Numbers 3:29 NIV (italics mine).
We see then that Moses, Aaron and Aaron's sons were to camp on the east with their families while the rest of the Kohathites were to camp on the south side of the tabernacle. These Kohathite clans, closest to Moses and Aaron in blood-line, had the responsibility for the care of the holy articles of ministry. It was their duty to carry them from place to place, to see that they were transported safely, protected, not defiled. No one else was permitted to do this. Yet even they were commanded not to touch or even look upon the holy furnishings and articles of the Tent of Meeting under penalty of death.
The Kohathite clans were responsible for the care of the tabernacle. The leader of the families of the Kohathite clans was Elizaphan son of Uzziel. They were responsible for the care of the ark, the table, the lampstand, the altars, the articles of the sanctuary used in ministering, the curtain, and everything related to their use. Numbers 3:28-31 NIV (italics mine).
Only Aaron, his sons and their male descendants were permitted to enter the tent, gaze upon and handle the holy things it contained including the curtain (veil). They were the priests called and anointed to be mediators between God and mankind in that period.
Their fellow Levites were assigned to all the other duties of the tabernacle, the house of God. But Aaron and his descendants were the ones who presented offerings on the altar of burnt offering and on the altar of incense in connection with all that was done in the Most Holy Place, making atonement for Israel, in accordance with all that Moses the servant of God had commanded. 1 Chronicles 6:48, 49 NIV (italics mine).
"This is the work of the Kohathites in the Tent of Meeting; the care of the most holy things. --." Numbers 4:4 NIV (italics mine).
"After Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy furnishings and all the holy articles, and when the camp is ready to move, the Kohathites are to come to do the carrying. But they must not touch the holy things or they will die. --." Numbers 4:15 NIV (italics mine).
After Aaron and his sons had covered the holy things in the tent, the other Kohathites could enter, pick up the articles assigned to them by Aaron and his sons, and transport them. Even though the other Kohathites were not permitted to touch these holy furnishings and articles, just being assigned to care for and transport them was a great privilege. The Kohathites came into closer contact with these holy things than any members of the other clans or tribes. They alone, other than Aaron and his sons, were permitted to enter the Tent of Meeting. Aaron and his sons were to cover the furnishings and other articles used there, following very detailed instructions, before the Kohathites could enter. Following are discussions of those instructions.
The Kohathite clans represented, symbolically, I believe, the ministry of the pastors and the church leadership who are responsible for protecting the holy truths of the scriptures. They are entrusted with the responsibility of carrying God’s holy articles of ministry but they must not touch (defile or in any way distort or change) them. Jesus has now taken the place of Aaron as High Priest. Jesus is the High Priest after the order of Melchizedek. He alone, of those who comprise the church, has unlimited access to the mysteries of the True Tabernacle and its ministries, of which the earthly tabernacle was a type.
Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see as face to face. Now we know in part; then I shall know fully as I am fully known. 1Corinthians 13:12 NIV (italics mine).
The Lord prepares the holy ministries and assigns them to the Kohathites (His called ministers), to carry to the places designated by him as He leads by the cloud or pillar of fire ( Holy Spirit ). It is not for them to touch these things or even to look upon them, that is; to in any way alter or treat them with irreverence. The holy things of God must be revered as holy. It is the pastor who, if truly called and anointed by God, comes closest to the hearts of the congregation. No one ever gets more involved in the lives of believers sharing their; joys, sorrows, fears and hopes, than a Godly pastor does.
I use the term pastor here as it relates to duties - not title. In a small congregation the senior pastor may be very involved with individual members of the congregation.
Pastors are to be allied with God and allied with their congregation and they are to teach and motivate their congregation to be allied with each other. He then, is the chosen priest of God who is entrusted with handling the most holy articles of ministry. The pastor holds a special position of trust. Woe, to the pastor who carelessly, or willfully, defiles the things entrusted to his care.
Nevertheless, the pastor is anointed of God and woe to those who would willfully do harm to God’s anointed. This is God’s work and His plan to carry out. It is a very serious matter to treat it carelessly or presumptuously interfere.
The positions described above refer more to the service than to the office title. For example the position of pastor as an official title would normally relate to the senior pastor of a church, an assistant pastor, youth pastor, etc. Here, however, while it certainly applies to those positions it also applies to anyone who is performing pastoral duties, ordained or not, in the performance of their service to the Lord.
In a very large congregation it may well be a small group leader who handles many of the pastoral duties for the small group. In the real world situation, those who serve the Lord faithfully, often find themselves doing a variety of things, as the need arises. Pastors may find themselves evangelizing, cleaning toilets or driving a bus. Those called to teach may find themselves performing tasks normally viewed as more pastoral, etc.
Aaron and his sons were to cover the furnishings and other articles used there, following very detailed instructions, before the Kohathites could enter. Following are discussion of those instructions.
Handling the Furnishings and Articles
.
Handling the Ark
When the camp is to move, Aaron and his sons are to go in and take down the shielding curtain and cover the ark of the Testimony with it. Then they are to cover this with hides of sea cows, spread a cloth of solid blue over that and put the poles in place. Numbers 4:5-6 NIV (italics mine).
It is very significant that the details for the covering of each article are given down to the very colors of those coverings. The first article for which instructions are given is the Ark of the Covenant. Aaron and his sons were to take down the veil, referred to here as the shielding curtain, and use it to cover the ark of the Testimony (Ark of the Covenant). Next they covered it with hides of sea cows (badger skins) in KJV). Over this they were to place a solid blue cloth.
At first this may seem an almost pointless exercise in detail. To understand it, the significance of each covering must be recalled. The veil or shielding curtain, was of white linen, woven with patterns of cherubim in blue, purple and scarlet. This was the separation between the holy and the most holy.
The hides of sea cows (porpoise skins), as we saw, were used for shoe leather and also formed the outer covering of the Tent of Meeting. As noted earlier, their use on the tent portrayed the humility of Jesus, the Son of Man.
The color blue is used to signify the heavens, in each instance where we have seen it in connection with Jesus. It is symbolic of Jesus having come down from heaven and His triumphant return to His heavenly Father. According to John's Gospel Jesus was God, and was with God, in the beginning:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. John 1;1-2 NIV (italics mine).
In heaven, as we’ve seen in Ezekiel, the Lord is always in the presence of the cherubim. In the beginning Jesus was in the presence of the cherubim symbolized by the veil. He humbled himself, coming to earth as a man, where He served, suffered, and died symbolized by the hides of sea cows. Then, three days after His burial, He rose triumphant from the grave. A few days later, He ascended to heaven (symbolized by the solid blue cloth) in the full view of His followers. (See: Appendix #2 ).
.
Handling the Table of Shewbread
Over the table of the Presence they are to spread a blue cloth and put on it the plates, dishes and bowls, and the jars for drink offerings; the bread that is continually there is to remain on it. Over these they are to spread a scarlet cloth, cover that with hides of sea cows and put its poles in place. Numbers 4:7-8 NIV (italics mine).
The next article of furniture to be covered was the Table of Shewbread, called the table of the Presence here. First, they were to spread a blue cloth cover over the table. The plates, dishes and bowls were to be placed upon the blue cloth. The bread of Presence that was on the table was to be left there. Next, a scarlet cloth was to be placed over everything and last of all a covering of hides of sea cows (porpoise) was placed around the outside.
As before, we must look to the significance of all of the items and coverings, as well as the order, to understand the message. The table symbolized the provision and fellowship of God that is available to all believers. The loaves representing the twelve tribes symbolized all believers being ever in the presence of God. This is why the bread was to remain upon the table even during transport.
The blue cloth, of course, represents heaven. The fact that the loves, symbolizing believers, are left on the table beneath the blue cloth indicates that they are presently below heaven but covered (sheltered) under a heavenly presence. The plates, bowls, and jars of gold were to be placed on the blue cloth, after it was spread over the table and the loaves, thus signifying that the glorious services provided for the believers come from heaven above.
Over these went a scarlet (bright red) cloth representing, of course, the blood of Christ Jesus, the price for sin, and the source of our reconciliation and redemption. This was the provision of God, for our reconciliation to him. Without the blood none of the benefits of heaven would ever be ours.
Lastly, the hides of sea cows covered everything, hiding the glory within from the eyes of the world, showing instead the face of humility so characteristic of Jesus, the Son of Man.
The glory is there, but it is not visible to the world -- only to those chosen, anointed, prepared and involved in His service. Even they, for now, only see the earthly manifestations of God’s glory, not the fullness of Him.
The fellowship and provision that the table symbolized is only for the redeemed elect of God. Relationship with the Lord does not appeal to the worldly. Unbelievers see nothing attractive about fellowship with Jesus, represented by the table. The glory and blessings that the table and the bread represent are available to all believers. They are, however, hidden from unbelievers, thus the covering of hides.
.
.
Handling the Lampstand
They are to take a blue cloth and cover the lampstand that is for light, together with its lamps, its wick trimmers and trays, and all its jars for the oil used to supply it. Then they are to wrap it and all its accessories in a covering of hides of sea cows and put it on a carrying frame. Numbers 4:9-10 NIV (italics mine).
We see here that the Lampstand, represented Jesus. This lamp, the only source of light for the Tent of Meeting, with all of its tools including the jars for the oil, was to be covered first with a blue cloth. The blue cloth, as we have seen, represented heaven. Jesus came down from heaven and ascended back to heaven. The light, while originating from Jesus in heaven, is shed abroad, here on earth, through the church. While ministering here on earth, Jesus was the light of the world,
" the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned." Matthew 4:16 NIV (italics mine).
He is still the source of all light, but the only light the world sees now is the light that shines through the believers -- the church.
"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16 NIV (italics mine).
Next we see that they wrapped the Lampstand in a covering of hides of sea cows. It was mentioned in the discussion regarding the roof of the Tent of Meeting, that the outer covering of the roof was hides of sea cows blocking the inner coverings from view because Jesus glory was not exposed to the world during His life and ministry here on earth.
Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Phillipi. On the way he asked them, "Who do men say that I am?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets." "But what about you?" He asked, "Who do you say that I am?" Peter answered, "You are the Christ." Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him. Mark 8:27-30 NIV (italics mine).
Here we see the Lampstand was also covered by hides of sea cows, in the same fashion as the tent roof, for the glorious light of Jesus, as He truly is, cannot be seen upon the earth at this time. Likewise, the glory that is promised to the church, the bride of Christ, is not revealed at the present time. Mortal men in frail bodies of flesh cannot bear to behold the full glory of God (see:Ex. 33:18-20). For the present, the only light given is the light reflected through the true church -- Jesus faithful followers.
. .
Handling the Gold Altar
Over the gold altar they are to spread a blue cloth and cover that with hides of sea cows and put its poles in place. Numbers 4:11 NIV (italics mine).
Over the Altar of Incense, referred to here simply as the gold altar, they were to spread a blue cloth and cover that with hides of sea cows. The Altar of Incense as we have seen was symbolic of the place of prayer, with the incense representing those prayers. Here it is covered with a blue cloth symbolizing heaven.
Heaven, of course, is precisely where we want our prayers to reach, and it is where the answers to our prayers originate. All glory, represented by the gold of the altar, and all blessings, come from the Lord Jesus Christ who is seated at the right hand of the God of glory. Jesus is constantly making intercession for us.
But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. Hebrews 10:12 NIV (bold mine).
Now there have been many of those priests (Levites), since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood.
Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Hebrews 7:23-25 NIV (italics mine).
Once again we see the hides of sea cows. The comparatively drab shoe leather was the only thing visible to onlookers as the altar passed by. The glory symbolized by the gold overlaying the altar was hidden from view. The world cannot presently understand nor appreciate the value of intercessory prayers of Jesus and His faithful followers. The powerful benefit and beneficial effect of those prayers upon the lives of people around us and the world we live in is largely hidden from unbelievers and only dimly visible even for believers.
.
Handling the Articles Used for Ministering in the Sanctuary
They are to take all the articles used for ministering in the sanctuary, wrap them in a blue cloth, cover that with hides of sea cows and put them on a carrying frame. Numbers 4:12 NIV (italics mine).
The symbolism here is much the same as for the gold altar. Here too, they were simply covered with blue cloth, and then with hides of sea cows. The blue, as we have seen, was the symbol of heaven, the source of ministries. The hides of sea cows symbolized the humility of Jesus.
It is important to note here that all of the articles of ministry from the interior of the Holy Place and Most Holy Place were always covered and hidden from view when they traveled. The glory that is Christ’s can only be seen by those called into priestly service and only in part, even by them. His glory may not be exposed to the world until He comes to judge the world ( Exodus 19:12; Revelation 19:11-16).
.
Handling the Bronze Altar
They are to remove the ashes from the bronze altar and spread a purple clothover it. Then they are to place on it all the utensils used for ministering at the altar, including the firepans, meat forks, shovels and sprinkling bowls. Over it they are to spread a covering of hides of sea cows and put its poles in place. Numbers 4:13-14 NIV (italics mine).
The last article, for which there were instructions for covering and transporting given, was the Altar of Burnt Offering called here the bronze altar. Aaron and his sons were to first remove the ashes from it. Then, they were to spread a purple cloth over it. Next, they were to place upon it all the utensils used for ministering at the altar. Finally, they were to spread a covering of hides of sea cows over it.
As we have seen this altar symbolized the cross and Jesus death upon it. Purple symbolizes royalty. Many will recall that the soldiers placed a purple robe, symbolizing royalty, upon Jesus at His trial to mock Him because they did not realize His true identity. Therefore, it does not take great imagination to see that this altar, the symbol of Jesus on the cross, adorned with a purple covering is revealing His royalty.
The utensils for ministering at this altar were not placed upon it until the purple cloth first covered it. The cross, this altar symbolized, was merely the wood from a tree, having no power for ministry until Jesus Christ, King of Kings, was placed upon it.
But next, the priests covered the altar with hides of sea cows hiding the purple covering from view. At the cross, Jesus royalty was not visible to the masses who had called for His crucifixion. The only notice of His true identity was a small sign on the cross that read, "JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS" John 19:19 NIV (italics mine). Its unlikely that even that small sign had any meaning, other than as a mockery, for anyone other than a scant handful of His followers. Even now, much of the world has no idea of Jesus true identity and significance.
Handling the Laver
Another very interesting fact about the instructions for the covering and transportation of the holy articles, is that the Laver is not mentioned here. Detailed instructions are provided for the covering and transporting of all the other articles for ministering, even the forks, firepans and utinsels, yet none are given for the Laver.
The significance, I believe, is in what the Laver represents -- the Word of God -- anointed and revealed by the Holy Spirit. The Word of God is to be revealed, shared, and openly spoken abroad -- not to be covered or hidden. Truth, and God’s Word is Truth, is meant to set us free from sin's bondage and must not be concealed.
To really get any understanding of God, and what He wants for us and from us, we must understand something of His nature. Of course we can read in scripture that God is good, holy, almighty, never changing, etc. and this is both descriptive and accurate. Unfortunately, words alone can only give us a description. Just as words can only describe feelings and experiences such as pain, joy and romance, they cannot actually give us those feelings or experiences.
To really begin to know and understand God, we must not only read and study scripture, but experience God’s mercy, grace and love for ourselves. It is through life’s trials, tribulations, and even our failures, that we learn to lean upon and trust the Lord for mercy, grace, strength, endurance and peace. It is in these times of our greatest need that we experience a growing confidence in His enduring love and faithfulness. We usually do not enjoy these experiences. That is not surprising - Jesus, the Son of God did not like His trials either. In fact, as He prayed shortly before His arrest He asked,
"My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." Matt 26:39 NIV (italics mine).
We may even feel that we are being abused or punished, that God is somehow being unfair. Nevertheless, as we mature in our Christian walk we learn that these times are necessary for our growth - not that we ever come to like them - but we can come to accept them with grace and understanding of their purpose.
Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered 9 and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him 10 and was designated by God to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek. Heb 5:8-10 NIV (italics mine).
If Jesus learned obedience and was made perfect (complete) by suffering why should we think it strange that we would be permitted to suffer? Real Christians are like excellent coffee beans -- just something with potential until they are ground and placed into hot water - it is then that the aroma and flavor can be appreciated.
It is interesting that here we see the instructions for handling the furnishings of the Tabernacle in almost, but not quite, a reverse order to the way they are approached upon entering. Here we see the Ark first followed by Table of Shewbread, not the Altar of Incense. Then they were to cover the Lamp. Next they were to deal with the Altar of Incense, then the Articles used in Ministry (cups, bowls, etc.). This covered all those things used in the Tent of Meeting. Next they were to prepare the Altar of Burnt Offerings (Bronze Altar) then the Laver.
At first this might seem just a random order but it is not! The very first item, the Ark represented God's presence. The next article, the Table of Shewbread represents fellowship with God and each other. Then we see the Lamp which represents the light Jesus brought into the world and which we are to reflect but cannot unless we have God first in our lives and fellowship with Him regularly. Only then were they to cover the Gold Altar of Incense representing the intercessory prayers. Finally they were ready to prepare the Articles of Ministry (the tools). We are not ready to go out to face the trials of the world and minister to those in need until we have all the first things in place.
Next we we see that they were instructed to prepare, not the Laver which was just outside the Tent of Meeting, rather the Brazen Altar which was closest to the Gate. To grasp the significance we must remember that we are now in the Courtyard. This was the area where the priests ministered to the Israelite community. What good would it be to attempt to teach sanctification, represented by the Laver, to those who have not yet been to the Cross for redemption, represented by the Brazen Altar. God teaches order in all things for He is a God of order.
God wants only the very best for His children and in this beautiful and marvelously designed structure God gave us detailed instructions on how to receive His best if we will just accept them and obey. The Tabernacle speaks to us plainly of God’s great and abiding love for us. It says that:
"God so loved the world, that he gave (as he had planned long ago) his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16 KJV (insert and italics mine.)
This confirms Jesus words:
" I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go to prepare a place for you I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:2-3 KJV (italics mine).
Summary:
The handling of the furnishing and the articles of the Tabernacle clearly send a message to the church of today about the Lord's relationship and dealings with the church and with individuals, both the redeemed and unredeemed. All of the Levites, symbolic of believers, were involved in ministry. All of them handled the Tabernacle, its furnishings and articles, but only the priests could enter the Tent of Meeting when the furnishings were uncovered and observe their full beauty. Only the High Priest was allowed to enter the Most Holy Place and behold the Ark of the Covenant, its' Mercy Seat and shekinah glory of God. Even the High Priest could only enter once each year.
How difficult it must have been for priests to leave the Tent of Meeting to go back out to minister in the heat or cold, the dust, the bloody mess, the noise and confusion of the crowds and animals, after being in the beautiful, peaceful presence of the things of God and sensing His presence. They could not remain there, however, it was necessary to be about their other duties.
Unfortunately, many Christians today have a tendancy to feel that they should always be in the Most Holy Place, that is, they should always be basking in the Glory of God and sensing His presence. What they do not realize is that He expects them to be about their other duties even though it may require getting out into the heat of controversy, the cold of rejection, the filth of slums and the confusion of a world that doesn't understand the message. There are times, in the life of every believer, when God doesn't seem to be close by -- but He is!
Some people leave churches because they don't feel the presence of the Lord there. One might ask why they didn't bring Him with them when they came. They leave because they aren't being fed spiritually. If they would tend to feeding others they would probably find more than enough left over to satisfy their own needs with a good deal to spare.
Category: Tabernacle
Copyright © 2011 ---.All Rights Reserved.
