How does Exodus 28:37 connect to the New Testament's call to holiness? Setting the Scene: Exodus 28:37 “Attach a cord of blue to it to fasten it to the turban; it shall be on the front of the turban.” Why the Details Matter • “It” is the golden plate engraved “HOLY TO THE LORD.” (v. 36) • Blue—color of the heavens—reminds Israel that holiness has a heavenly source and goal. • The forehead—seat of thought and identity—signals that holiness begins in the mind and is meant to be visible. From Aaron’s Turban to Every Believer • Aaron carried the people’s offerings before God; Christ now carries us (Hebrews 7:25). • In Christ, every believer is brought into priestly service: “You are… a royal priesthood, a holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9). • The holiness once concentrated on one man’s forehead is now meant to characterize the whole church. New Testament Echoes of the Same Call • 1 Peter 1:15-16 – “Be holy, because I am holy.” • Romans 12:1 – Present your bodies “holy and pleasing to God.” • 2 Corinthians 7:1 – “Cleanse ourselves… perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” • Hebrews 12:14 – “Pursue… holiness—without which no one will see the Lord.” • Ephesians 4:23-24 – “Put on the new self… in true righteousness and holiness.” Shared Themes Across the Covenants • Visible Holiness – The plate sat “on the front of the turban.” – Believers are to “shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15). • Mind-Centered Holiness – Plate on the forehead; NT speaks of renewed minds (Romans 12:2). • Heavenly Orientation – Blue cord points upward; Colossians 3:1-2 urges minds set “on things above.” • Identity Mark – Plate read “HOLY TO THE LORD”; Revelation 14:1 shows God’s name written on redeemed foreheads. Living Out the Forehead Principle Today • Saturate mind in Scripture so thoughts bear the stamp “Holy to the Lord.” • Make holiness visible through speech, conduct, and modesty. • Keep motives heaven-directed rather than earth-bound. • Depend on Christ’s priestly ministry; holiness is received before it is achieved. |
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