Aaron was a man blessed by God to be the first high priest of Israel and have all succeeding priest come from his lineage. Though Aaron was religious, he had his failings. One stands out above the rest–the golden calf (Ex. 32:1-5). There are many lessons to learn from Aaron’s error, let’s notice one.
Aaron followed the multitude (Ex. 32:1). When the masses pressured Aaron to commit idolatry, something expressly forbidden by God, he gave in (Ex. 20:1-4). In religion, this always leads to sin because the majority always have been and always will be unrighteous (Gen. 6:5, 11; Matt. 7:13-14). God had warned Israel not to be counted among the multitudes (Ex. 23:2). We, too, are not to be like the world around us, regardless of the pressure (1 Pet. 4:3-4). The Holy Spirit said, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And DO NOT BE CONFORMED TO THIS WORLD, but BE TRANSFORMED by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Rom. 12:1-2).
In light of the above, we have some questions for you. In religious matters, do you conform to the masses? When you look for a church to attend, do you see you has the largest crowds or truth (cf. Jn. 8:32)? Further, Aaron was supposed to be a leader in Israel, instead, he became a follower by giving in to the whims of the people (Ex. 32:1-5). This same thing happens today. Preachers and churches find out what will please the people and draw the biggest crowd, then do it. They use entertainment, recreation, and every other worldly allurement possible. They are modern-day Aarons who, like the first one, fail to do their duty to God, bowing to the desires of men.
Are you guilty of Aaron’s error? Is your preacher? Why not give up pleasing men and turn to God? It will not satisfy the masses, but it will satisfy your soul! Believe in the Christ, confess Him before men, repent of your sins, and be baptized for the remission of sins (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38).
Anonymous
