God dealt with the rebels and spared the whole assembly after Moses' and Aaron's intercession (22). God used the cleansed censers as an object lesson with two points: First, God's holiness. The holy God provided a way to dwell with them through sacrifices on the altar. The layered bronze pointed to it. Second, God is sovereign. God chose Aaron's family for the priesthood on the basis of God's sovereignty alone; not popular opinion, human ability, or other criteria. By these God provided both the means and method to dwell with his people in covenant relationship.

But the people still did not pay attention to God. The next day, focusing only on Moses and Aaron, the people grumbled and accused them of murder. God appeared again at the tent of meeting. His holy presence brought a plague among the rebellious people. Moses instructed Aaron to carry out his priestly duty and make atonement for the people. As he did so, standing between the living and the dead, the plague stopped. Aaron's priesthood was limited by his own weakness and eventual death. Jesus, our great high priest and mediator, always lives to intercede for us (Heb 7:25). Jesus became the once-for-all atoning sacrifice for us (Heb 10:14).


Application: Father, you are holy and sovereign, and we are sinful rebels. Thank you for making a way for us to live with you through our high priest Jesus. Help me come to him humbly today.
One Word: Jesus is our great high priest forever