Numbers 18:22

No longer may the Israelites come near to the Tent of Meeting, or they will incur guilt and die.

Study Bible

No longer may the Israelites come near to the Tent of Meeting
This phrase indicates a change in the regulations concerning the approach to the Tent of Meeting, which was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites. Previously, the Israelites had access to the outer areas of the Tabernacle, but this restriction emphasizes the holiness of God and the need for a mediator. The Levites were appointed to serve in the Tabernacle, acting as intermediaries between God and the people. This separation underscores the concept of holiness and the need for purity when approaching God, a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament. The Tent of Meeting is a precursor to the Temple in Jerusalem and ultimately points to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5).

or they will incur guilt and die
This warning highlights the seriousness of approaching God without the proper mediation and sanctification. In the Old Testament, the presence of God was both a source of blessing and a potential source of judgment. The holiness of God required that only those who were consecrated and appointed could come near, reflecting the gravity of sin and the need for atonement. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23), but through Jesus Christ, believers are granted access to God (Hebrews 10:19-22). The death penalty for unauthorized access to the Tent of Meeting serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the necessity of respecting divine boundaries.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were given the Law through Moses.

2. The Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, it was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. The Levites
A tribe set apart by God to perform duties related to the Tabernacle, including its care and the facilitation of worship.

4. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the Law from God and communicated His commands to the people.

5. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest, who was responsible for the priestly duties and the spiritual leadership of the Israelites.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of God
God's holiness requires reverence and obedience. The Israelites were warned not to approach the Tent of Meeting to prevent incurring guilt and death, emphasizing the need for respect towards God's commands.

The Role of Mediation
The Levites and priests served as mediators between God and the people, foreshadowing Christ's role as our ultimate mediator. This highlights the importance of intercession and the privilege of having direct access to God through Jesus.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The warning to the Israelites serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience. It encourages believers to live in accordance with God's will, understanding that sin separates us from His presence.

The Privilege of Access
In Christ, believers have the privilege of approaching God with confidence. This access should not be taken lightly but should inspire gratitude and a desire to live a life pleasing to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the restriction placed on the Israelites regarding the Tent of Meeting teach us about the nature of God's holiness?

2. How does the role of the Levites as mediators in the Old Testament compare to the role of Jesus as our mediator in the New Testament?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we approach God with the reverence and respect He deserves in our daily lives?

4. How does understanding the consequences of disobedience in the Old Testament context help us appreciate the grace offered through Christ?

5. Reflect on the privilege of having direct access to God through Jesus. How can this truth impact your prayer life and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 10
This chapter describes the death of Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons, for offering unauthorized fire before the Lord, illustrating the seriousness of approaching God's presence improperly.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage explains the role of the high priest and the significance of the Tabernacle, drawing parallels to Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

1 Peter 2
This passage speaks of believers as a royal priesthood, highlighting the shift from the Old Testament priesthood to the New Testament understanding of all believers having access to God through Christ.