Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Speaker: Steve Lawson
• Context: Post-lunch session, reference to earlier discussion on 'Sanctified Magic' and gnosticism.
• Anecdote: Humorous story about a deceptive measurement of distance, highlighting enchantment and magic themes.

Main Scriptural Focus

• Book of Leviticus, Chapter 10, Verse 1: Story of Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron.
  • They offered 'unauthorized/strange fire' before the Lord.
  • Result: Consumed by fire from the Lord, died instantly.

Lessons and Implications

• God's Holiness and Worship:

  • God's instructions for worship are to be followed precisely.
  • Unauthorized practices lead to severe consequences.

• Aaron's Reaction and Moses' Response:

  • Aaron was distressed but held his peace after Moses reminded him of God's holiness requirement.
  • Moses emphasized God's demand for holiness among those who draw near Him.

• Carrying a Sense of Holiness:

  • Corpses of Nadab and Abihu removed from the camp to maintain sanctity.
  • Aaron and his remaining sons were instructed not to mourn publicly, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense.

Theological Reflections

• God's Wrath vs. God's Mercy:

  • Old Testament often reflects God's wrath, which coexists with His mercy.
  • Stories like Nadab and Abihu serve as reminders of the seriousness of God's commands.

• Human Presumption:

  • Illustrated through the story of Uzzah and the Ark of the Covenant.
  • Lesson on human hands vs. divine command; dirt is not sinful, human disobedience is.

• Justice and Grace:

  • Discussion on justice vs. grace in teaching experiences.
  • The danger of taking God's grace for granted over time.

The Gospel and Salvation

• Christian Understanding of Salvation:

  • Salvation is primarily from God's wrath through Christ's sacrifice.
  • The cross as the ultimate demonstration of both God's wrath and mercy.

• God's Wrath in the New Testament:

  • Seen at the cross; God's justice was satisfied through Jesus' suffering.
  • The story of wrath continues, manifesting God's commitment to justice.

Application for Ministry

• Pastoral Reflections:
  • Importance of acknowledging the gravity of God’s holiness in worship and preaching.
  • Encouragement for pastors to impart a sense of reverence and seriousness in their congregations.

Conclusion

• Invitation for Reflection:
  • Consideration of God’s holiness and the responsibility of carrying out ministry with reverence.
• Next Session: Q&A with Dr. Sproul at 3:30.