What is the meaning of Exodus 40:15? Anoint them “Anoint them …” signals a specific, physical act of pouring consecrated oil on Aaron’s sons. In Exodus 30:30, the LORD had already said, “Anoint Aaron and his sons and consecrate them to serve Me as priests.” The oil is not magical; it is a tangible sign that God Himself sets these men apart. • The same practice marked kings (1 Samuel 16:13) and prophets (1 Kings 19:16), so the priests join a line of divinely commissioned servants. • Psalm 133:2 uses the priestly anointing as a picture of unity, showing that this act carries both personal and communal blessing. Just as you anointed their father God insists, “just as you anointed their father,” referencing Aaron’s earlier consecration (Exodus 29:7; Leviticus 8:12). Equal treatment underscores that each new priest shares the same standing and responsibility. • No shortcuts for the next generation—holiness is never inherited automatically; it must be confirmed by obedience. • The pattern also safeguards against innovation that might dilute God’s instructions (Deuteronomy 12:32). So that they may also serve Me as priests Purpose follows the act: “so that they may also serve Me as priests.” Priesthood is service first to God, then to people (Hebrews 5:1). • Exodus 28:1 lists Aaron’s sons by name, proving God’s interest in individuals. • Hebrews 5:4 reminds us that “no one takes this honor upon himself; he must be called by God,” matching the divine call seen here. • While Israel’s priests are literal descendants, believers today are called “a royal priesthood” in 1 Peter 2:9, showing how the principle extends spiritually. Their anointing will qualify them “Anointing” doesn’t merely symbolize; it “qualifies” or authorizes ministry. Numbers 3:3 notes of Aaron’s sons, “they were anointed and consecrated to serve as priests.” • Leviticus 10:7 warns that priests must not leave the tabernacle while the anointing oil is on them, emphasizing both privilege and constraint. • Ministry flows from God’s appointment, not personal ambition—an enduring lesson for every servant of Christ. For a permanent priesthood throughout their generations Finally, the LORD promises “a permanent priesthood throughout their generations.” Exodus 29:9 repeats this pledge; Numbers 25:13 later confirms it with Phinehas, “an everlasting priesthood.” • “Permanent” refers to the covenant era until Jesus, the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 7:24–27), fulfills and surpasses the Aaronic line. • The continuity of priests kept Israel in daily contact with God’s mercy, prefiguring the unbroken intercession of Christ (Romans 8:34). summary Exodus 40:15 weaves together ceremony and calling. God commands Moses to anoint Aaron’s sons exactly as Aaron was anointed, ensuring visible continuity and spiritual legitimacy. The oil sets them apart, authorizes their service, and ties their work to a lasting covenant promise. Each phrase underlines that ministry originates in God’s choice, requires personal consecration, and serves the greater plan that culminates in the eternal priesthood of Jesus. |
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