What connections exist between Exodus 28:14 and New Testament teachings on priesthood? Setting the Scene: Exodus 28:14 “and two braided chains of pure gold, like cords; attach the chains to the settings.” Gold Chains on the High Priest: Why They Matter • Pure gold speaks of holiness, worth, and permanence—the priest represents a holy, priceless covenant. • Braided chains are strong, unbroken links, hinting at an unbreakable bond between God and His people. • The chains fasten memorial stones (vv. 11–12) that bear Israel’s names, showing that the priest carries the people before God continually. Foreshadowing the Perfect High Priest • Hebrews 4:14-16—Jesus, “the great High Priest,” ascends with our names on His heart and shoulders. • Hebrews 7:24-25—His priesthood is “permanent,” mirroring the enduring strength of gold chains. • Hebrews 9:24—He enters the heavenly sanctuary “to appear in God’s presence on our behalf,” just as the chains held Israel close to the earthly mercy seat. Our Shared Priesthood in the New Covenant • 1 Peter 2:5, 9—Believers are a “royal priesthood,” spiritually linked to Christ as securely as the chains joined the ephod to the memorial stones. • Revelation 1:5-6—He “has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God,” grounding our identity in His finished work. • Ephesians 2:6—We are “seated with Him in the heavenly realms,” securely fastened to our High Priest. Key Connections Summarized • Material: Gold’s purity and permanence point to Christ’s flawless, everlasting priesthood. • Function: Chains joining memorial stones to garments prefigure Christ binding His people to Himself. • Continuity: The Old Covenant’s physical symbols find their spiritual reality in the New Covenant—what was worn externally becomes an internal, living priesthood through Jesus. Living It Out • Rest in the certainty that Christ bears your name before the Father as securely as gold chains held Israel’s tribes. • Walk worthy of your priestly calling—intercede, worship, and serve, knowing you are permanently linked to your High Priest. |
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