Approaching the Divine: A Harmonious Paradox?
In this article, you will learn how Leviticus 10:3 contradicts Exodus 33:20, 1 Samuel 15:22, Isaiah 55:8-9, Matthew 27:51, Mark 2:17 and Hebrews 4:16. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible offers diverse perspectives on the way humans should approach God, making some verses seem at odds with others. A central theme in Leviticus 10:3 is God's holiness. The author underscores that anyone drawing near to Him must respect and honor this divinity. Aaron exemplifies this by remaining silent after God displays His awe-inspiring power. But, does this reverence equate to distance?
In Exodus 33:20, we learn that seeing God could lead to death, accentuating His untouchable holiness and implying an insurmountable chasm between humans and the Divine. How then, can we approach Him, as suggested in Leviticus?
1 Samuel 15:22 pivots from ritual to obedience, suggesting that actions of the heart matter more than ceremonial accuracy. This shifts the focus from prescribed holiness to personal integrity.
Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us of the vast difference in God's thoughts compared to ours. If God's ways are so incomprehensible, how can we truly grasp and honor His holiness as Leviticus demands?
Matthew 27:51 presents a dramatic shift—at Jesus's crucifixion, the temple veil tears, symbolizing direct access to God for all. This newfound closeness challenges the guarded approach from Leviticus.
In Mark 2:17, Jesus dines with sinners, breaking the boundaries of holiness and uncleanliness, showing that God’s presence isn't exclusive to the ritually pure.
Finally, Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers to "come boldly" to God's throne. This confidence contrasts with the fear and silence exemplified by Aaron.
These perspectives highlight a beautiful complexity in approaching the Divine. Is it about ritual purity, moral obedience, or embracing the grace offered by Jesus? This paradox invites believers to explore and reflect on the multifaceted relationship they can have with God.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Leviticus 10:3 | Then Moses said unto Aaron, This [is it] that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace. |
| 2. | Exodus 33:20 | And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live. |
| 3. | 1 Samuel 15:22 | And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams. |
| 4. | Isaiah 55:8-9 | For my thoughts [are] not your thoughts, neither [are] your ways my ways, saith the LORD. |
| 5. | Matthew 27:51 | And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; |
| 6. | Mark 2:17 | When Jesus heard [it], he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. |
| 7. | Hebrews 4:16 | Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. |