The LORD purposely told Moses not to count the Levites as a part of the Israelite army, because the Levites have a different role among the people of Israel. Aaron and his sons are to serve as priests in the LORD’s house, and the Levites are to assist the sons of Aaron. The Levites also serve the people by guarding the tabernacle, lest the people go before the LORD in His holiness unprepared. The Levites also serve a vicarious role within the people of Israel. Instead of claiming every firstborn Israelite, the LORD claims the Levites in their place. For this reason, the LORD numbers all Levites one month old and upward in this chapter.

Rev. David Appold, pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Paducah, KY, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Numbers 3:1-51.

"Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God’s promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.