I learned earlier today, studying for this morning’s Lesson, that the proper approach to God outlined in Leviticus 9 was “turned on its head” by an improper approach to God depicted in Leviticus 10.

What Nadab and Abihu did in Leviticus chapter 10 is the very “reverse, opposite” of what Aaron was instructed to do (what was done to Aaron) in Leviticus chapter 9.

Let me show you three ways at least …

First … constantly in chapters 8 and 9 we are reminded “and God commanded” such and such to be done. Leviticus 9:7 … “as the Lord commanded.” BUT in the Nadab and Abihu incident, they did “before the LORD, which he commanded them not.” Leviticus 10:1

What a stark contrast!

Second … in the proper anointing of Aaron, at the conclusion of the ritual … “There came a fire out from before the LORD, and consumed upon the altar the burnt offering and the fat.” The Fire of God’s Presence, accepting the whole burnt offering made unto Him! (The quote is taken from Leviticus 9:24, King James Version.) BUT when Aaron’s two rebellious sons offered their “strange” version of approach to God … “There went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.” Quite a different result, Leviticus 10:2.

Third … when the right way to God was followed, joy resulted. “When all the people saw (God’s Visible Approval), they shouted, and fell on their faces.” Loud praise, Leviticus 9:24 again. BUT when Nadab and Abihu sinned (disobeyed) and died … “And Aaron held his peace.” Leviticus 10:3, word for word!

And one could even add number four … when done rightly (the priesthood) God is obviously glorified! BUT when done wrongly … God is not glorified! He is angered!

Man’s approach to God, man in communion with God … the whole idea of the Book of Leviticus … is dramatically contrasted within a few divinely inspired Paragraphs … Leviticus chapters 9 (the right way) and 10 (the wrong way)!

Jesus later said, rightly … “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6, Amen!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

More about this tomorrow morning, the Lord willing.

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