What is the context?
The priests receive instructions about grooming, wine and marriage. They are to keep their hair trimmed, avoid wine before entering the inner court and marry within the limits stated for their calling.
Their responsibility also includes teaching. They must help the people distinguish the holy from the common and the clean from the unclean.
When disputes arise, the priests must judge according to the Lord’s ordinances. Their authority is tied to His instructions, including the appointed feasts and Sabbaths. Their calling joins personal conduct, sound teaching and fair judgment.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Wesley explains their role in settling disputes according to the Lord’s laws. Cambridge notes the particular marriage restrictions, including permission to marry the widow of a priest.
The rules define duties within this priestly calling. They do not make widowhood or divorce, by themselves, a verdict on a woman’s moral character.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
First Timothy 3:1–7 also joins spiritual leadership with a trustworthy life. An overseer is to be self-controlled, able to teach, gentle, hospitable and free from the love of money.
The offices and detailed requirements are different, but the shared principle is substantial: caring for God’s people is not separated from character. The New Testament calls for leaders whose conduct supports, rather than undermines, what they teach.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.