Commentary on Numbers 18:5

Verse Text: "And ye shall keep the charge of the sanctuary, and the charge of the altar: that there be no wrath any more upon the children of Israel."

Introduction

In Numbers 18:5, God instructs the priests regarding their responsibilities in maintaining the sanctity of the sanctuary and the altar, which marks a significant aspect of the Israelite religious life. This verse emphasizes the vital role of the priests in safeguarding the holiness of their worship and their community.

Theological Significance

1. Divine Order in Worship:

• Matthew Henry notes that this charge exemplifies God's desire for order and reverence in worship. The priests’ duties are not merely ritualistic but are essential for maintaining a proper relationship between God and His people.
• Albert Barnes highlights that neglecting these responsibilities could lead to divine wrath, indicating the seriousness of the priests' role as mediators.
• Adam Clarke emphasizes that the charge of the sanctuary involves both physical and spiritual dimensions, calling for a diligent attitude in service.

Priestly Responsibilities

2. Keeper of the Sanctuary:

• The duties mentioned can be interpreted as a call to vigilance. Matthew Henry asserts that the sanctuary requires continuous oversight to prevent desecration.
• Albert Barnes identifies the sanctity of the altar as central to the people’s atonement and communion with God, formulated in a ritualistic framework that cannot be disregarded.

3. Role of the Altar:

• Adam Clarke describes the altar as a symbol of sacrifice, representing both God's grace and the necessity of atonement. The priests, therefore, serve as conduits through which the community can access divine forgiveness.
• This underscores the priest's role in ensuring that sacrifices are made correctly, as improper offerings could invoke God's anger.

Implications for Israel

4. Community’s Relationship with God:

• The responsibility placed on the priests underlines the importance of proper leadership in spiritual matters. Matthew Henry discusses how the integrity of worship is inextricably linked to the communal well-being of the Israelites.
• Albert Barnes notes that through their faithfulness, the priests not only maintain their covenant with God but also protect the congregation from divine judgment.

Practical Application

5. Lessons for Modern Leadership:

• The responsibility of the spiritual leaders today can be seen as analogous to that of the priests. Adam Clarke suggests that leaders must remain clear about their duties to promote a healthy relationship with God among their congregants.
• This verse calls for vigilance and dedication in ministry, ensuring that worship remains pure and untainted in a contemporary context.

Conclusion

Numbers 18:5 serves as a profound reminder of the enduring principles of sanctity and responsibility in worship. The combining insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke reveal a layered understanding of the priestly role that transcends ancient Israel, offering timeless truths for today's church leaders, pastors, and theologians. The call to uphold the charge of the sanctuary and the altar is as significant now as it was in the days of Moses.