Leviticus 10:16

Later, Moses searched carefully for the goat of the sin offering, and behold, it had been burned up. He was angry with Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's remaining sons, and asked,

Study Bible

Later, Moses searched carefully for the goat of the sin offering
Moses, as the leader and mediator between God and the Israelites, was responsible for ensuring that the sacrificial laws were followed precisely. The sin offering was a critical component of the sacrificial system, designed to atone for unintentional sins and maintain the holiness of the community. The goat, as a sin offering, was to be eaten by the priests in a holy place, symbolizing the bearing of the people's sins. This search indicates Moses' diligence in upholding God's commands, reflecting the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

and behold, it had been burned up
The burning of the sin offering outside the camp was reserved for specific circumstances, such as when the blood was brought into the sanctuary (Leviticus 6:30). The fact that the goat was burned instead of eaten suggests a deviation from the prescribed ritual. This act could symbolize the complete removal of sin, but in this context, it indicates a failure to follow God's instructions. The burning up of the offering without the priests partaking in it could signify a loss of the intended fellowship and atonement.

He was angry with Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron’s remaining sons
Eleazar and Ithamar, as Aaron's surviving sons, were responsible for carrying out the priestly duties after the death of their brothers Nadab and Abihu, who were consumed by fire for offering unauthorized incense (Leviticus 10:1-2). Moses' anger reflects the gravity of their oversight or disobedience. The priesthood was a sacred office, and any deviation from God's commands was taken seriously, as it could lead to dire consequences for the community. This incident underscores the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

and asked
Moses' questioning of Eleazar and Ithamar highlights the need for accountability among the leaders of Israel. It also serves as a teaching moment, emphasizing the importance of understanding and adhering to God's laws. This inquiry is not just about seeking an explanation but also about reinforcing the sanctity of the priestly duties and the sacrificial system. Moses' role as a leader involved guiding and correcting the priests to ensure that the community remained in right standing with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is responsible for ensuring that God's commandments are followed. In this passage, he is checking on the fulfillment of the sacrificial duties.

2. Eleazar and Ithamar
The surviving sons of Aaron, who are serving as priests after the death of their brothers, Nadab and Abihu. They are responsible for carrying out the priestly duties, including the handling of the sin offering.

3. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice commanded by God for atonement of sins. It is a critical part of the Levitical sacrificial system, symbolizing purification and reconciliation with God.

4. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites. It is the central place of worship and sacrifice during the wilderness period.

5. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites are journeying after their exodus from Egypt. It is a place of testing, instruction, and revelation from God.

Teaching Points

Holiness in Service
The passage underscores the importance of holiness and obedience in serving God. Priests were required to follow God's instructions precisely, reflecting the seriousness of their role.

Accountability in Leadership
Moses' inquiry into the handling of the sin offering highlights the need for accountability among leaders. Spiritual leaders must ensure that God's commands are followed faithfully.

The Seriousness of Sin
The sin offering represents the gravity of sin and the need for atonement. It reminds believers of the cost of sin and the necessity of seeking God's forgiveness.

God's Provision for Atonement
The sacrificial system, though temporary, points to God's provision for dealing with sin. It foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who provides eternal atonement.

Faithfulness in Worship
The passage calls believers to be faithful in their worship practices, ensuring that they align with God's instructions and honor His holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Eleazar and Ithamar in Leviticus 10:16 reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?

2. In what ways does the sin offering in Leviticus point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, as discussed in the book of Hebrews?

3. What can we learn from Moses' actions about the importance of accountability in our personal and communal spiritual practices?

4. How does the concept of holiness in the priestly duties challenge us to pursue holiness in our daily lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to ensure that your actions aligned with God's instructions. What steps did you take to maintain faithfulness in that situation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 6:24-30
Provides detailed instructions on the handling of the sin offering, emphasizing the holiness required in its consumption by the priests.

Numbers 18:8-10
Discusses the portions of offerings that are to be consumed by the priests, reinforcing the sacredness of their duties.

Hebrews 10:1-4
Reflects on the limitations of the Old Testament sacrifices, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ's sacrifice.