Recently, one person had ‘halaal’ worship. Neither the term used nor the method sync with the Word of God. He wanted to be creative and attract young people. Sadly, he reminds us of Nadab and Abihu.
Aaron the Levite and Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab from the tribe of Judah had four sons. Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar. Nadab and Abihu were with Moses and Aaron and 70 elders in Mount Sinai when the covenant was affirmed and were present as they shared a meal in God’s presence. (Exodus 24:1-11)
Aaron and his four sons were set apart as priests. (Exodus 28:1) As priests they were dressed in robes and sashes; turban had gold plate with inscription: “Holy to the Lord.” (Leviticus 8:7,9) They saw a great wonder of fire from the Lord consuming the burnt offering. (Leviticus 9:24) Moses had given instructions, how the priests should approach the altar. “You shall not offer unauthorized incense on it, or a burnt offering, or a grain offering, and you shall not pour a drink offering on it.” (Exodus 30:9)
Both Nadab and Abihu took censers, put fire and incense, offered ‘unauthorized fire,’ (strange or profane) unto the Lord. God’s wrath was upon them that they were consumed by fire and died. (Leviticus 10:1,2) Privileged, called, and had known the Law, yet rebelled against God. In other words, he framed his own method of worship to the Lord, which was summarily rejected. Did they do it because of pride? Bored by repetition of sacrifice all seven days did they innovate? Were they ambitious?
Moses said: “This is what the Lord has said: ‘Among those who are near me I will be sanctified, and before all the people I will be glorified.’” (Leviticus 10:3) Those who come near Him should regard, respect and honour Him as Holy. A sinner can come, should not think God is like him a sinner; He is Holy. God will be glorified by worshipping Him in Holiness. Creativity that violates God’s commandment is dangerous.
Do I worship Him in the splendour of holiness?