What connections exist between Exodus 28:20 and the New Testament priesthood of believers? The gem-studded breastpiece in Exodus 28:20 “and in the fourth row a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. All these stones were mounted in gold filigree settings.” Why the twelve stones mattered • Twelve distinct gems—each engraved with a tribe’s name (Exodus 28:21) • Fastened over the high priest’s heart (Exodus 28:29) • Set in gold, highlighting value and permanence • Carried into the Holy Place whenever the high priest ministered From one earthly priest to a kingdom of priests • Old Covenant: only Aaron’s line entered God’s presence with the breastpiece (Hebrews 9:6-7) • New Covenant: every believer is “a holy priesthood” (1 Peter 2:5) and “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9) • Jesus, our great High Priest, fulfills and opens the way for all (Hebrews 10:19-22) Parallel themes that link the gemstones to believers today • Representation – Twelve stones = twelve tribes represented before God – Believers now represent Christ to the world (2 Corinthians 5:20) • Preciousness – Each stone rare and beautiful – Each believer purchased “not with perishable things, but with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18-19) • Diversity within unity – Different colors, one breastpiece – “Many members, but one body” (1 Corinthians 12:12) • Placement over the heart – Stones carried close to the high priest’s heart – Believers carried on Christ’s heart; He “always lives to intercede” for us (Hebrews 7:25) • Secure setting – Gold filigree held every gem in place – The Father’s hand holds every believer; none will be snatched away (John 10:28-29) Living stones in the New Testament • “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house” (1 Peter 2:5) • Unlike lifeless jewels, we are Spirit-indwelt, animated for worship and service • The temple imagery shifts from cloth and gold to people and glory (Ephesians 2:19-22) Practical takeaways for the priesthood of believers • Treasure your identity—God sees you as precious as those gemstones • Embrace your priestly role—intercede, worship, declare His excellencies (1 Peter 2:9) • Celebrate diversity—each believer reflects a facet of Christ’s beauty • Rest in security—your place on Christ’s heart is sealed, just as the gems were set in gold |
    |