1 Chronicles 24:1-31
Q.1. How great was the influence of the sons of Aaron? How were the priests chosen for the service of the sanctuary? (1 Chr.24:1-19)
Aaron had four sons. Two of them, Nadab and Abihu, died before their father died. They left no sons (1 Chron.24:2). Eleazar had a large family and ended up with sixteen priestly leaders. Ithamar had eight. These were assigned impartially to priestly ministries, which were determined by drawing lots (1 Chr.24:5). In a similar way, the Holy Spirit assigns the gifts by which we can serve Him in and through the church – But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills (1 Cor.12:11).
Q.2. How were the duties of the Levites determined? What part did King David play in the appointments of the priests? (1 Chr.24:3, 20-31)
The Levites were appointed in exactly the same way. However, only their duties differed from those of the Aaronic priesthood. Wherever men gather, there can be the possibility of dishonesty. That is why we must have protocols in place regarding the selection of leaders, and the managing of finances. These responsibilities should never be left to one individual. All those so chosen should be above reproach (2 Cor.8:16-24). The division of labour amongst the priests and Levites had the potential to be disputed. The presence of King David guaranteed that everything was done decently and in an orderly fashion (1 Chr.24:4 & 31 c.f. 1 Cor.14:40).