Moses said to Aaron, “What did these people do to you that would make you do this? Why did you lead them to do such a terrible sin?
Exodus 32:21 ERV
Leadership transcends mere guidance; it encompasses more than providing directions. True leadership is about leading by example, with others following willingly in your footsteps. It goes beyond verbal instructions, embodying the principles and values one espouses. In essence, a leader is not just someone who points the way. A correct leader is a living testament to the path he advocates. As we delve into today’s discussion, let’s explore the profound expectations God had of Aaron’s leadership and the timeless lessons it holds for leaders today.
When the people resolved to seek other gods for themselves, they came to Aaron, being Moses’ right-hand. Although they could have taken matters into their own hands and set up a god for themselves. However, they looked to Aaron for leadership. Sadly, Aaron failed to recognise the profound responsibility he held when the people approached him. He failed to realise what privilege he had when the people came to discuss this matter with him. Little did he know that it was an opportunity from God to be lead the people. Unfortunately, Aaron fell short.
While it may seem as if there’s no issue with Aaron’s actions, however, Moses’s words shed light on the gravity of his mistake. His showed what a great responsibility Aaron had misused. Moses expects that Aaron would shoulder the responsibility of influencing the people toward goodness and righteousness. So, he asked him: “What did these people do to you that would make you do this? Why did you lead them to do such a terrible sin?”. For Aaron, the problem wasn’t whether the people knew if their actions were right or wrong, but that he failed to guide them in the right direction.
Though the followers might be bent on their evil ways, God expects that every leader must be men with backbone. They must know and be able to stand up for the right cause. The expectation of Aaron is not merely about making decisions but about making choices that uphold a higher standard, considering the spiritual well-being and moral direction of the people. While God will not fail to bring every follower that err into judgement, I realize that a greater and more strict judgement awaits every leader.
Not many [of you] should become teachers (self-constituted censors and reprovers of others), my brethren, for you know that we [teachers] will be judged by a higher standard and with greater severity [than other people; thus, we assume the greater accountability and the more condemnation].
James 3:1 AMPC
God expects every leader to be accountable to the faith He has received. A leader or teacher that his lax in his responsiblity is prone to a steep judgement or condemnation. When God will evaluate you like he did Aaron’s leadership will you not fall prey to the desire of the people.
Even someone in your own family may try to turn you away from the Lord. It may be your own brother, your son or your daughter. It may be your wife whom you love. It may be a friend that you like very much. They may say to you secretly, ‘We should worship other gods.’ Those are gods that you and your ancestors never knew about before. They are gods that people who live around you may worship. They may be gods of people who live near to you. They may be gods of people who live anywhere on the earth. But never agree with anyone who says that you should worship those gods. Do not even listen to him! Do not feel sorry for him. Do not try to protect him from punishment.
Deuteronomy 13:6-8 EASY
“Why did you lead them to do such a terrible sin”? It wouldn’t matter whether it was the people that brought suggestion or not. The fact that the leader obliged, he took the responsibility for leading them into sin. He led the people to turn away from the Lord. But how come did he not even resist the people’s suggestion? It was only evidence that he had already turned away in his heart, the people only came to prove the genuineness of his standing.
Indeed, it is impossible for a leader to lead the people in a way he is not following. Though it was the people that requested for a god, but Aaron walked them into that path. He led them to do such a terrible sin. Meanwhile, this is the man whom the Lord had chosen to be the high priest, but he knew not God’s plan for his life. How many men have fallen into similar errors, though God had prepared a much better future for them?
Dear leader and teacher of God’s word, how well are you discharging your responsibilities?
In your leadership role, are you guiding others with integrity, or are you inadvertently leading them astray? Moses’ poignant question to Aaron serves as a powerful reminder that leaders carry a tremendous responsibility. The choices made by leaders profoundly impact those who follow. Whether in your family, community, or ministry, the call to leadership demands a commitment to the higher standard of righteousness. As you reflect on the expectations placed on leaders, may you be inspired to lead with unwavering dedication to God.
