Read Exodus 26
Highlights:
Directions given for constructing the Tabernacle, court, furniture, and enclosure; plans for the Altar; Aaron's priestly garments; plans for the ephod. Notice the progression from suffering, blood, and death — to beauty, holiness, and the glory of God in these chapters.
The high priest was anointed as the mediator between God and the nation of Israel to make atonement for them so that they could be reconciled to God. He took the atoning sacrificial blood of animals before the Lord into the Holy of Holies and sprinkled it on the Mercy Seat. Thus, he foreshadowed the blood of Jesus Christ His (God's) Son (that) cleanseth us from all sin (I John 1:7). God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself (II Cor. 5:17-19). Just think! His blood alone (representing His life) washed away sins.
The inscription on the high priest's holy garments and his forehead was: HOLINESS TO THE LORD (Ex. 28:36; 39:30). It reminded the people that their Creator was a Holy God who loved them (the sinners) and provided a way for them to enjoy continuing fellowship with Him. Before the priests could intercede on behalf of the people, all their clothing had to be specially made. Only then was Moses told: Thou . . . shalt anoint them (Aaron and his sons), and consecrate them, . .. . that they may minister unto Me (28:41). They were representatives of God.
Every person except Jesus has a sinful nature, even the high priest. The best efforts of all mankind, as well as our thoughts, are a mixture of good and bad and therefore imperfect. But Christ being come an High Priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect Tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption for us (Heb. 9:11-12). In Christ, our High Priest, we see the Perfect, Absolutely Sinless One (7:25-27).
In writing to my little children (the teachable Christians) (I John 2:1), the Apostle John said: If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves. . . . If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His Word is not in us (I John 1:7-10).
Thought for Today:
When a man's ways please the Lord, He maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him (Prov. 16:7).
Christ Revealed:
Through the Brasen Altar, upon which the Sin Offering was burned (Ex. 27:1-8; Lev. 4:1-35). Jesus' offering of Himself as the final sacrifice was the fulfillment of all Old Testament altars as well as all sacrificial offerings. Jesus Christ. . . . In whom we have redemption through His blood (Eph. 1:5-7; John 1:29,36; Col. 1:14; Heb. 9:12).
Word Studies:
26:1 cunning work skillful workmanship; 26:2 have one measure be the same measurement; 28:2 holy garments rod-appointed clothing was required to participate in worship services; 28:8 curious girdle skillfully made belt; 28:43 bear not iniquity not be guilty of sin.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Xavier Becerra (CA), Rep. Kevin McCarty (CA), and Rep. Albio Sires (NJ) • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Singapore (4 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Chinese and Malay • Religious freedom • 54% Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Chinese Traditional Religion; 15% Muslim; 9% Protestant; 4% Catholic; 3% Hindu; .5% Sikh; .2% Baha'i; 14.3% None/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Unite with others in prayer; God will bring your request to pass (Matt. 18:19-20).
Optional Reading: Matthew 26
Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 30:5