What can we learn about God's presence from "above the mercy seat"? Above the Mercy Seat—God’s Chosen Meeting Place “And there I will meet with you, and from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim that are on the ark of the testimony, I will speak with you about all that I command you regarding the Israelites.” (Exodus 25:22) Key Observations from Exodus 25:22 • God selects the location. • His voice comes from above the atonement cover, not from within the ark. • He speaks “about all that I command,” tying presence to revelation. • Cherubim frame the scene, signaling holiness (cf. Genesis 3:24; Ezekiel 10:1–4). • The initiative is entirely His—“I will meet,” “I will speak.” What We Learn about God’s Presence • Approachable, yet on His terms – Only the high priest could enter once a year (Leviticus 16:2), underscoring both invitation and boundary. • Centered on atonement – “Mercy seat” (kapporet) is literally the covering where sacrificial blood was sprinkled (Leviticus 16:14). – God’s nearness is inseparable from provided mercy. • Communicative, not silent – “I will speak with you” shows a relational God who discloses His will (Numbers 7:89). • Consistent character – The same God who walked with Adam (Genesis 3:8) now meets Israel; continuity runs through Scripture. • Mediated presence – Priestly representation anticipates the ultimate Mediator, Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:5). Echoes in the New Covenant • The mercy seat foreshadows Christ – Romans 3:25 calls Jesus the “propitiation” (hilasterion—same Greek word for mercy seat in Hebrews 9:5). – His blood satisfies God’s justice, granting us access. • Veil removed – At the crucifixion “the veil of the temple was torn in two” (Matthew 27:51), declaring open access for all believers. • Bold approach encouraged – “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16), a direct line made possible by Christ’s finished work. Practical Takeaways for Today • Approach God with reverent confidence – Mercy makes boldness possible; holiness keeps it humble. • Expect God to speak through His Word – The same God who spoke to Moses addresses us in Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16). • Center worship on the cross – Every gathering should remember the cost of our access (1 Corinthians 11:26). • Live as priests – We carry His presence to the world (1 Peter 2:9), reflecting mercy received. • Cultivate gratitude – The “place of meeting” is no longer hidden behind a curtain; it’s within us by the Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). Reasons to Worship • He desires fellowship—“I will meet.” • He reveals truth—“I will speak.” • He provides mercy—the blood-sprinkled seat. • He fulfills promises—shadow becomes substance in Christ. |
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