How does Exodus 28:43 emphasize the importance of holiness in worship practices? The command in context Exodus 28:43—“Aaron and his sons are to wear them whenever they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar to minister in the Holy Place, so that they do not incur guilt and die. This shall be a permanent statute for Aaron and his descendants after him.” – The “them” refers to the linen undergarments (v. 42) that completed the priestly garments God prescribed. – God Himself dictated every detail, establishing that worship is set on His terms, not ours. – The text ties dress directly to survival in God’s presence: obedience meant life; negligence invited death. Holiness and proximity – Drawing near to the Holy God demands purity (Psalm 24:3-4). – The garments symbolized moral and ceremonial cleanness; without holiness, fellowship is impossible (Hebrews 12:14). – Exodus 28:43 links clothing with “approach,” underscoring that holiness is prerequisite, not accessory. Consequences for irreverence – “So that they do not incur guilt and die” echoes earlier warnings (Exodus 19:21-22) and later judgments (Leviticus 10:1-3). – God’s holiness is life-giving yet lethal to profanity; the verse highlights both His nearness and His otherness. – The lasting statute (“permanent”) shows this is no temporary ritual—holiness remains God’s timeless expectation. Lessons for today’s worship – While Christ fulfills the priesthood (Hebrews 4:14-16), the principle stands: we come on God’s terms. – Personal purity matters: confessing sin, guarding attitudes, honoring His Word (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). – Ordered worship matters: thoughtful preparation, reverent demeanor, and practices that reflect God’s glory (1 Corinthians 14:40). Living holy through Christ – Jesus clothes believers in His righteousness (Isaiah 61:10; 2 Corinthians 5:21). – Yet we actively “put on” holiness in daily conduct (Ephesians 4:24; 1 Peter 1:15-16). – By the Spirit we can “enter the Most Holy Place” with confidence, not presumption (Hebrews 10:19-22), maintaining the awe Exodus 28:43 so vividly conveys. |
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