How does the lampstand in Exodus 25:31 connect to Jesus as the Light? The Golden Lampstand: Exodus 25:31 • “Then you are to make a lampstand of pure gold. The lampstand and all its utensils are to be made of one piece, its base and shaft, its cups, its calyxes, and its petals.” (Exodus 25:31) • Placed in the Holy Place, opposite the table of the bread of the Presence (Exodus 26:35). • Fueled by “pure, pressed olive oil” so “the lamps may be kept burning continually” (Exodus 27:20). • Seven lamps (Exodus 25:37) gave the only light inside; without them, the priest ministered in darkness. Design Details that Point Forward to Christ • Pure gold – symbolizes divine perfection; Jesus shares “all the fullness of Deity” (Colossians 2:9). • One piece – no joints or seams; Christ is undivided in His person and purpose (John 10:30). • Hammered work – shaped through affliction; Christ was “pierced for our transgressions” (Isaiah 53:5). • Almond blossoms – first tree to bloom after winter, a picture of resurrection life (cf. Jeremiah 1:11–12); Jesus is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). • Continual oil – oil pictures the Holy Spirit (Zechariah 4:1–6); Jesus was anointed “with the Spirit and with power” (Acts 10:38). Jesus Declares Himself the Light • “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) • “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:4-5) • The lampstand gave light inside the tabernacle; Jesus gives light to the whole world—yet only those who enter His presence enjoy it (John 3:19-21). Seven Lamps, Sevenfold Spirit, Seven Churches • Revelation 4:5: “Before the throne were burning seven torches of fire, which are the seven spirits of God.” • Revelation 1:12-13: John sees “seven golden lampstands” and “One like a son of man” walking among them. Christ stands amid His churches, supplying their light. • The earthly menorah foreshadowed the heavenly reality: Jesus, in the Spirit’s fullness, illuminating His people. From Tabernacle Glow to Global Gospel • Just as the lampstand faced the bread of the Presence, Jesus the Light directs us to Himself as the Bread of Life (John 6:35). • The priests trimmed wicks morning and evening (Exodus 30:7-8); Christ’s intercession continually keeps His people shining (Hebrews 7:25). • Israel camped in ordered tribes around the tabernacle (Numbers 2); today believers “proclaim the excellencies” of the Light to every nation (1 Peter 2:9). Practical Takeaways for Today • Walk in His light – “Live as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8). Darkness flees where His truth is welcomed. • Depend on His oil – “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6). Ministry without the Spirit sputters out. • Reflect, don’t originate – The lampstand only displayed the oil’s flame; we display Christ’s life, not our own (Galatians 2:20). • Keep the lamps trimmed – Regular repentance and Scripture intake keep the light clear (Psalm 119:105). • Anticipate the city that needs no lamp – “The Lord God will illuminate them” (Revelation 22:5). The temporary menorah points to everlasting glory with Jesus, the true, unsetting Light. |
    |