numbers 4
Summary
Outlines the specific duties of the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites, the three main families of the Levites, in the service of the Tabernacle. It also includes instructions for the transportation of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.
Key Points
God instructs Moses and Aaron to take a census of the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites, from thirty to fifty years old, who are to perform the work of the Tabernacle (Numbers 4:1-3).
The Kohathites are responsible for carrying the most holy things, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table, the lampstand, the altars, and the utensils of the sanctuary (Numbers 4:4-15).
Eleazar, the son of Aaron, is given oversight of the oil for the light, the incense, the daily grain offering, and the anointing oil (Numbers 4:16).
The Gershonites are assigned the task of carrying the curtains, coverings, and hangings of the Tabernacle (Numbers 4:21-28).
The Merarites are responsible for transporting the frames, bars, pillars, and bases of the Tabernacle (Numbers 4:29-33).
The total number of Levites counted for service is recorded, with specific numbers for each family (Numbers 4:34-49).
New Covenant Reflections
Service and Responsibility: Numbers 4 details the specific responsibilities of each Levitical family in caring for and transporting the Tabernacle. In the New Covenant, believers are given specific gifts and roles within the body of Christ to serve and build up the Church (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
Holiness and Reverence: The Kohathites are instructed to handle the most holy things with great care (Numbers 4:4-20). This reflects the New Covenant's emphasis on approaching God with reverence and holiness, made possible through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 12:28-29).
Community and Cooperation: The division of labor among the Levites highlights the importance of community and cooperation in fulfilling God's work. In the New Covenant, the Church functions as a community where each member contributes to the common good (Ephesians 4:16).