The Israelites are to set up their tents by divisions, each man in his own camp
under his own standard. The Levites, however, are to set up their tents around the tabernacle of the
Testimony so that wrath will not fall on the Israelite community. The Levites
are to be responsible for the care of the tabernacle of the Testimony ~ Numbers 1:52-53
THE LEVITES: Care is here taken to distinguish the tribe of Levi, which, in the matter of the
golden calf, had distinguished itself. Singular services shall be recompensed by
singular honours. It was to the honour of the Levites, that to them was
committed the care of the tabernacle and its treasures, in their camps and in
their marches. They that minister about holy things, should neither entangle themselves, nor be
entangled, in worldly affairs. Let every believer seek to do what the Lord
has commanded.
THE ISRAELITES: The order of the tribes in their tents. - The tribes were to encamp about the
tabernacle, which was to be in the midst of them. It was a token of God's
gracious presence. Yet they were to pitch their tents afar off, in reverence to
the sanctuary. The children of Israel put themselves in their posts, without
murmuring or disputing; and as it was their safety, so it was their beauty. It
is our duty and interest to be contented with the place allotted to us, and to
endeavour to occupy it in a proper manner, without envying or murmuring; without
ambition or covetousness. Thus the gospel church ought to be compact, according
to the Scripture model, every one knowing and keeping his place; and then all
that wish well to the church rejoice, beholding their order, Col 2:5.
Matthew Henry Commentry
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