“And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the Lord, which he commanded them not. And there went out fire from the Lord, and devoured them, and they died before the Lord.” (vv.1-2)
Exactly what the "strange fire" offered by Nadab and Abihu may have been is not explained. This sudden judgment upon Aaron's sons, however, stresses the critical importance of adherence to God's Word, especially by those called to special service on behalf of the LORD.
In some way, they had failed to obey God's commands in connection with their priestly service. Therefore, God judged them as an example and warning against spiritual presumption on the part of any of His people.
One lesson for all of us who are "priests" (every believer) in the modern church is that we dare not draw near to God with a casual or careless attitude! Scripture reminds us that, “the LORD our God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.” (Deut.4:24) Yahweh is a holy and jealous God, and has the righteous right to consume those who profane His glory.
The Truth: Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a “consuming fire.” (Hebrews 12:28-29)
In some way, they had failed to obey God's commands in connection with their priestly service. Therefore, God judged them as an example and warning against spiritual presumption on the part of any of His people.
One lesson for all of us who are "priests" (every believer) in the modern church is that we dare not draw near to God with a casual or careless attitude! Scripture reminds us that, “the LORD our God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.” (Deut.4:24) Yahweh is a holy and jealous God, and has the righteous right to consume those who profane His glory.
The Truth: Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a “consuming fire.” (Hebrews 12:28-29)
