This chapter is about a tragic event. Aaron’s two sons offered unauthorized fire before the LORD. The LORD killed them with fire (1,2). We do not know why Nadab and Abihu did this after God consecrated Aaron. Perhaps they did not learn God’s holiness (3) despite seeing God’s glory. Perhaps they had been drunk (9). At the very least, they lost spiritual discernment (10) and possibly entered the most holy place (16:1,2).

Through this event, the LORD taught them how holy he is (3). Our God is much holier than we can imagine. The angels sang, covering their faces and feet, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty” (Isa 6:2,3). Even though Aaron lost his two sons, he was not allowed to mourn by making his hair unkempt, nor tearing his clothes, nor leaving the entrance of the Tent of Meeting (6). We should have spiritual discernment and be self-controlled. In all circumstances, we should care about God’s holiness and know the difference between holy and ordinary for the glory of God. When we serve the holy God with fear and a trembling heart, his holiness can be revealed before his people.
Application: Father, forgive my spiritual ignorance and unholy behaviors before your people. Help me to approach you with fear and a trembling heart and reveal your holiness before all people.
One Word: Reveal God’s holiness before all people