Character Study Of Aaron Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF AARON – FIRST HIGH PRIEST, BROTHER OF MOSES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:

Exodus 28:1 – “And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest’s office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron’s sons.”

Supporting Texts:

Exodus 4:14-16, Exodus 32:1-6, Leviticus 8:1-13, Numbers 12:1-9, Hebrews 5:1-4

INTRODUCTION

Aaron, the elder brother of Moses and Miriam, played a significant role in Israel's history as the first high priest. He was chosen by God to be a mediator between the people and the Lord, offering sacrifices and interceding for them. His leadership was instrumental in assisting Moses during the exodus from Egypt and in establishing the priesthood.

Despite his high calling, Aaron struggled with moments of weakness, including his involvement in the making of the golden calf. Nevertheless, he remained faithful to his priestly duties and was honoured by God until his death on Mount Hor. His life teaches valuable lessons about leadership, obedience, and the consequences of yielding to pressure.

As believers, we can learn from Aaron’s strengths and weaknesses. He was anointed for service, yet he faced challenges that tested his faithfulness. His story reminds us that God calls and equips His servants, but we must remain steadfast and obedient to His commands.

1. AARON’S DIVINE CALLING AS A PRIEST

a) Chosen by God – Aaron was divinely selected to serve as the first high priest of Israel. (Exodus 28:1)

b) Anointed for priestly service – God instructed Moses to consecrate Aaron for the priesthood. (Leviticus 8:1-13)

c) Mediator between God and the people – He offered sacrifices on behalf of Israel. (Hebrews 5:1-4)

d) Given the responsibility of leading worship – He was tasked with maintaining the tabernacle. (Numbers 18:1-7)

e) Biblical Example: Samuel was also chosen by God to serve as a priest and prophet. (1 Samuel 3:1-10)

2. AARON AS MOSES’ SPOKESMAN

a) God appointed him to assist Moses – Aaron became the mouthpiece for his younger brother. (Exodus 4:14-16)

b) He spoke on behalf of Moses before Pharaoh – He played a vital role in securing Israel’s release. (Exodus 7:1-2)

c) Performed miraculous signs – Aaron’s rod turned into a serpent and swallowed the sorcerers' rods. (Exodus 7:10-12)

d) Helped lead Israel out of Egypt – He stood alongside Moses in confronting Pharaoh. (Exodus 12:31-32)

e) Biblical Example: John the Baptist was also a forerunner, preparing the way for Jesus. (Luke 3:2-4)

3. AARON’S FAILURE WITH THE GOLDEN CALF

a) He succumbed to the people's pressure – Aaron built a golden calf for Israel to worship. (Exodus 32:1-6)

b) He tried to justify his actions – He made excuses instead of taking responsibility. (Exodus 32:22-24)

c) This act provoked God’s anger – The sin of idolatry brought judgment upon the people. (Exodus 32:35)

d) Moses interceded for him – Aaron was spared from destruction because of Moses’ plea. (Deuteronomy 9:20)

e) Biblical Example: King Saul also disobeyed God and made excuses. (1 Samuel 15:13-23)

4. AARON’S ROLE IN THE PRIESTLY BLESSING

a) Instituted the priestly blessing – Aaron and his descendants were commanded to bless Israel. (Numbers 6:22-27)

b) Offered sacrifices for atonement – He performed rituals to cleanse the people from sin. (Leviticus 16:1-34)

c) Led in worship at the tabernacle – He maintained the fire of the altar continually. (Leviticus 6:12-13)

d) Taught the people God’s laws – The priests were responsible for instructing Israel. (Leviticus 10:8-11)

e) Biblical Example: Melchizedek, a priest of God, also blessed Abraham. (Genesis 14:18-20)

5. AARON’S CHALLENGES AND WEAKNESSES

a) Struggled with peer pressure – He gave in to the people’s demands for an idol. (Exodus 32:1-4)

b) Participated in rebellion – Alongside Miriam, he spoke against Moses. (Numbers 12:1-2)

c) Was temporarily punished by God – Though spared, he witnessed Miriam’s leprosy. (Numbers 12:9-10)

d) Lacked firm leadership at critical moments – He failed to restrain the people from sin. (Exodus 32:25)

e) Biblical Example: Peter also wavered under pressure but was later restored. (Luke 22:54-62; John 21:15-17)

6. STRENGTHS OF AARON

a) Obedient to his calling – He faithfully carried out his priestly duties. (Leviticus 8:36)

b) Great intercessor – He prayed for the people and stood in the gap. (Numbers 16:46-50)

c) Humble enough to accept correction – He repented when confronted. (Numbers 12:11)

d) Used by God for miracles – His rod performed signs and wonders. (Exodus 7:9-12)

e) Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul also demonstrated obedience and humility. (Philippians 3:7-9)

7. THE DEATH OF AARON

a) Aaron’s priesthood had a set time – His role was temporary. (Numbers 20:23-24)

b) He was not allowed to enter the Promised Land – Because of disobedience at Meribah. (Numbers 20:12)

c) Transferred his priestly garments to Eleazar – Signifying a new priesthood. (Numbers 20:25-28)