01262008

Exodus 26

Highlights In Today's Reading:

An awesome God gave the pattern for the Tabernacle in detail, saying: Thus it shall be (26:24). Nothing could be added or left out. It clearly speaks of the person of Christ and the way of redemption through its materials, colors, furniture, and arrangement. Note the progression from suffering, blood, and death, to beauty, holiness, and the glory of God in today's reading.

The high priest was anointed as the mediator between God and the nation of Israel to make atonement for them in order to 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). Just think! His blood alone (representing His life) washed away sins. God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself (II Corinthians 5:17-19).

The inscription on the high priest's holy garments and his forehead, HOLINESS TO THE LORD (Exodus 28:36; 39:30), reminded the people that their Creator was a Holy God who loved them (the sinners) and provided a way for them to communicate with Him. Before the priests could intercede on behalf of the people, all their clothing had to be especially 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). Inwardly and outwardly they were to be the 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 (Hebrews 9:11-12). But 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 (1:7-10).

The genuineness of one's faith will be evidenced by one's response to Jesus who said: Take up his cross daily (Luke 9:23) for faith without works is dead (James 2:20). Upon recognizing our spiritual shortcomings we can daily pray: Forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us (Luke 11:4; Matthew 6:12).

Thought for Today:

Forgiving others opens the door for God's healing and restoration in our own lives (Matthew 18:21-35; Mark 11:25-26).

Christ Revealed:

Through the Brasen Altar, upon which the Sin Offering was burned (Exodus 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 =God-appointed clothing was required to participate in worship services; 28:8 curious girdle =b> skillfully made belt; 28:43 bear not iniquity =not be guilty of sin.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The English International Shortwave Radio Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Xavier Becerra (CA), Rep. Kevin McCarty (CA), Rep. Albio Sires (NJ) • Country: Belgium (10.2 million) in northwestern Europe • Major languages: Flemish and French • Religious freedom • 74% Catholic; 3% Muslim; 1% Protestant; .5% Orthodox; 20% Secular Humanism; 1.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Keep your mind on the Lord and trust Him; He will give you peace (Isaiah 26:3).

Optional Reading: Matthew 26

Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 3:11