Leviticus:10

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* Verse 1 ,2 - Next to Moses and Aaron , none were more likely to be honourable in Israel than Nadab and Abihu . There is reason to think that they were puffed up with pride , and that they were heated with wine . While the people were prostrate before the Lord , adoring his presence and glory , they rushed into the tabernacle to burn incense , though not at the appointed time ; both together , instead of one alone , and with fire not taken from the altar . If it had been done through ignorance , they had been allowed to bring a sin-offering . But the soul that doeth presumptuously , and in contempt of God 's majesty and justice , that soul shall be cut off . The wages of sin is death . They died in the very act of their sin . The sin and punishment of these priests showed the imperfection of that priesthood from the very beginning , and that it could not shelter any from the fire of God 's wrath , otherwise than as it was typical of Christ 's priesthood . * Verse 3-7 - The most quieting considerations under affliction are fetched from the word of God . What was it that God spake ? Though Aaron 's heart must have been filled with anguish and dismay , yet with silent submission he revered the justice of the stroke . When God corrects us or ours for sin , it is our duty to accept the punishment , and say , It is the Lord , let him do what seemeth him good . Whenever we worship God , we come nigh unto him , as spiritual priests . This ought to make us very serious in all acts of devotion . It concerns us all , when we come nigh to God , to do every religious exercise , as those who believe that the God with whom we have to do , is a holy God . He will take vengeance on those that profane his sacred name by trifling with him . * Verse 8-11 - Do not drink wine or strong drink . During the time they ministered , the priests were forbidden it . It is required of gospel ministers , that they be not given to wine , 1st Timothy strkjv @3:3 . It is , Lest ye die ; die when ye are in drink . The danger of death , to which we are continually exposed , should engage all to be sober . * Verse 12-20 - Afflictions should rather quicken us to our duty , than take us from it . But our unfitness for duty , when it is natural and not sinful , will have great allowances made for it ; God will have mercy , and not sacrifice . Let us profit by the solemn warning this history conveys . When professing worshippers come with zeal without knowledge , carnal affections , earthly , light , vain , trifling thoughts , the devices of will-worship , instead of the offering of soul and spirit ; then the incense is kindled by a flame which never came down from heaven , which the Spirit of a holy God never sent within their hearts . **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary ****

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