Numbers 17:13

Anyone who comes near the tabernacle of the LORD will die. Are we all going to perish?"

Study Bible

Anyone who comes near the tabernacle of the LORD will die.
This phrase reflects the holiness and sanctity of the tabernacle, which was the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites. The tabernacle was central to Israelite worship and was where sacrifices and offerings were made. The warning that anyone who comes near will die underscores the seriousness of approaching God without proper reverence or authorization. This is consistent with the broader biblical theme that God is holy and that sinful humanity cannot stand in His presence without mediation. The Levitical priesthood, particularly the high priest, served as mediators between God and the people, highlighting the need for a divinely appointed intermediary. This concept foreshadows the role of Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest, who provides access to God through His sacrificial death and resurrection (Hebrews 4:14-16).

Are we all going to perish?
This question reflects the fear and anxiety of the Israelites following the rebellion of Korah and the subsequent divine judgment that resulted in the death of many. The people were acutely aware of their vulnerability and the consequences of disobedience. This moment of crisis highlights the need for obedience to God's commands and the importance of respecting the established order of worship and leadership. The question also points to the human condition of recognizing one's mortality and the need for divine grace and mercy. In a broader theological context, it echoes the existential question of humanity's fate apart from God's intervention. The New Testament provides the answer to this question through the assurance of eternal life offered by faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:16), who conquered death and offers salvation to all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to guide His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness.

2. Aaron
Moses' brother and the first high priest, whose rod budded as a sign of God's chosen priesthood.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, who were often rebellious and questioning of God's chosen leaders.

4. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among His people, a sacred space where His presence was manifest.

5. The Budding of Aaron's Rod
A miraculous event where Aaron's rod budded, blossomed, and produced almonds, signifying God's choice of Aaron and his descendants for the priesthood.

Teaching Points

Reverence for God's Holiness
The Israelites' fear of perishing when approaching the tabernacle underscores the holiness of God and the need for reverence in worship.

God's Sovereign Choice
Aaron's rod budding was a clear sign of God's sovereign choice, reminding us that God appoints leaders according to His will.

The Role of Intercession
Aaron's role as high priest points to the importance of intercession, a role fulfilled by Christ as our ultimate High Priest.

The Danger of Rebellion
The Israelites' fear reflects the consequences of rebellion against God's appointed leaders, urging us to submit to God's authority.

The Assurance of God's Presence
Despite their fear, the Israelites were assured of God's presence among them, a promise that extends to believers today through the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fear of the Israelites in Numbers 17:13 reflect their understanding of God's holiness, and how should this influence our approach to worship today?

2. In what ways does Aaron's budding rod serve as a symbol of God's authority and choice, and how can we discern God's calling in our own lives?

3. How does the role of the high priest in the Old Testament foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as our High Priest, and what implications does this have for our prayer life?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' rebellion and fear about the importance of submitting to God's appointed leaders in the church?

5. How can we find assurance in God's presence in our lives today, and what practices can help us cultivate an awareness of His presence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28-29
These chapters describe the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, establishing the priesthood that Numbers 17 reaffirms.

Hebrews 9:1-10
This passage discusses the earthly tabernacle and its regulations, connecting the Old Testament practices to the New Covenant.

1 Peter 2:9
This verse speaks of believers as a royal priesthood, drawing a parallel to the chosen priesthood of Aaron.