Aaron had four sons who were also priests. Two of these sons Nadab and Abihu make an offering to the Lord which was not authorised (v1). The Lord’s judgment on them was swift and fatal (v2).

Moses explains why this has happened (v3); it is the Lord showing that He is holy and He has acted to protect His holiness. God’s presence cannot be entered in a casual way and certainly not in a way determined by us. We can only approach God in the way He has said. This means worshipping God with reverence, worshipping according to God’s word and worshipping trusting in Jesus’ sacrifice for sin.

Aaron and his two remaining sons Eleazar and Ithamar are not to follow the normal mourning traditions (v6-7), as they are to remain on duty as priests. This might sound harsh, but it was showing that their responsibility as priests before God needed to exceed their love for Nadab and Abihu. There does though seem to be a concession regarding the sin offering (v19-20).

The reference to not drinking while on duty (v9) may suggest Nadab and Abihu acted as they did under the influence of strong drink. We need clear minds as we serve and worship the Lord.