What connections exist between Exodus 39:10 and the New Testament's view of priesthood? The Verse in View “ And they mounted four rows of precious stones on it. The first row was a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald;” (Exodus 39:10) Why the Stones Mattered in Exodus • Twelve gems sat on the high priest’s breastpiece—one for every tribe of Israel (Exodus 28:21). • Worn over Aaron’s heart, they signified that he carried the people into God’s presence (Exodus 28:29). • Each stone was precious, chosen, and securely set, underscoring the worth and permanence of God’s covenant people. Foreshadowing Christ, Our Great High Priest • Hebrews 4:14 calls Jesus “a great high priest who has passed through the heavens,” fulfilling the office Aaron only pictured. • Just as the gems were fastened “over the heart,” Christ bears His people on His heart—engraved on His hands and inscribed on His palms (Isaiah 49:16). • The individual stones visualize particular, known persons. John 10:3 reminds us the Good Shepherd “calls His own sheep by name.” The New Testament priesthood is personal, not anonymous. Believers as a Royal Priesthood • 1 Peter 2:5—“you… are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood.” • 1 Peter 2:9—“you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood.” • The stones on the breastpiece were precious and varied, yet united; likewise, believers are “living stones” (1 Peter 2:5) set together on Christ, our cornerstone. • Revelation 21:19–20 lists twelve foundation stones for the New Jerusalem—many of the same gems that appeared in Exodus. The imagery carries over to eternity, linking Israel, the Church, and the consummated kingdom. Key Connections Summarized • Representation: Aaron bore Israel before God; Jesus represents all who trust Him (Hebrews 7:25). • Preciousness: Gems picture the intrinsic worth God assigns His redeemed (1 Corinthians 6:20). • Permanence: The breastpiece’s secure settings mirror the believer’s secure standing in Christ (John 10:28). • Diversity in Unity: Multiple stones, one priestly garment—many members, one body (1 Corinthians 12:12). • Access to God: Old Covenant access was through one man; New Covenant access is for every believer-priest (Hebrews 10:19-22). Living It Out Today • See yourself as a “precious stone” carried on Christ’s heart—accepted, remembered, and interceded for. • Approach God with confidence, exercising your priestly privilege of praise, intercession, and witness. • Celebrate the rich unity Christ forges from diverse believers, just as varied gems formed one breastpiece. |
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