AUGUST 12TH, 1941

AUGUST 12TH, 1941

BELOVED BROTHER, — ... The word generally translated “censer” is translated “snuff-trays” in Exodus 25: 38; 37: 23; Numbers 4: 9, and “fire-pans” in Exodus 38: 3, so that it evidently refers to certain vessels fitted for contact with flame or fire even if not used for incense. But in Leviticus 10: 1; 16: 12, and in the references in Numbers 16, it clearly means vessels in which incense is offered. It is clearly intimated that it was customary for priests to be furnished with censers, though there is no direct instruction as to their being made. It is assumed that they would use censers. The sin of Nadab and Abihu was that they offered with “strange fire”. They represent persons who use fleshly means and abilities in the professed service of God. But God refuses any service that is not in the power of His Spirit; those who worship God must worship Him in spirit and in truth.

In Numbers 16 it is a question of persons seeking the priesthood as a glory to themselves, without being kindred with Christ. These men would glorify themselves even in the sphere of most holy service. They were highly privileged as Levites, but they coveted a distinction which was not theirs. In nothing is the pride and rebellion of the flesh more manifest than when it arrogates to itself priestly dignity and function. No doubt this applies prophetically to the claims set up by the clergy, but it speaks to us all of the seriousness of assuming to exercise priesthood without moral kinship with Christ. We cannot offer by fire unless we have been salted by fire ourselves. To bring unjudged flesh to God is bound to result in it being burned up. We must be “of the seed of Aaron” to be accepted.

A censer is the appropriate means of offering incense. It is a vessel which will bear the action of fire. But it cannot be rightly used by one who has not come under the baptism of fire himself. Hebrews 12: 29 would connect with Numbers 16. I do not know that I can add more at present....

I trust that you and yours are well. With much warm love in the Lord to your dear wife and yourself,

Yours affectionately in Him,

August 12th, 1941.