Chapter Summary

Regulations concerning maintenance of the priests.

Discussion Questions for Numbers, Chapter 18

1. Aaron and his family was chosen to be "responsible for iniquity against the sanctuary" and "for iniquity involving your priesthood" (verse 1, CSB). Why do you believe the sanctuary and the priesthood were so important for God and His people?
2. The tribe of Levi, who were Aaron's relatives, had special responsibilities as well. But they were forbidden to "come near the sanctuary equipment or the altar" (verse 3, CSB), let they die. What does this teach about the holiness of God?
3. By keeping the Israelites from the sanctuary, God's wrath would not fall on them again (cf. verse 5). Do you believe that this was an act of mercy from God? Why or why not?
4. How did the Lord provide for the needs of Aaron and his sons (cf. verses 8-10)? What does that teach us about our responsibility to those who serve God's people?
5. Verse 10 describes the offerings of God's people as holy. What makes them holy? If offerings to the Lord's work today are holy, how should they be managed?
6. The initial crops of the Israelites are called "the firstfruits" (verse 12, CSB), which were set apart for the Lord to provide for the needs of Aaron's sons. What do you believe are our firstfruits today? What should we do with our firstfruits?
7. Verse 15 tells us that the firstborn of every living thing that is presented to the Lord belongs to Aaron's sons. They are said to be redeemed. What does it mean to be redeemed? How has the Lord redeemed us?
8. Why are the firstborn of an ox, sheep, or goat not to be redeemed by Aaron's sons, according to verse 17? What does it mean to be holy?
9. According to verse 20, was Aaron given a portion of the land? What did Aaron receive instead? How is receiving the Lord greater than receiving His blessings?
10. According to verse 26, were the Levites exempt from presenting an offering to the Lord? Why should they have to present an offering?

Key Words/Phrase

Given, v. 6.

Characters

God, Moses, Aaron.

Strong Verse(s)

6, 12, 20.