Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 28:20 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 28:20 is a key verse in the detailed instructions that God provided to Moses for creating the sacred garments for the high priest. The context of this verse, the symbolism of the breastplate, and the application for modern Christians are all crucial in understanding its spiritual and theological significance. As part of the ceremonial regulations given to Israel, Exodus 28:20 is rich with meaning that speaks to God’s covenant with His people, the holiness required for entering God’s presence, and the intercessory role of the priest.
This article will delve into the context, meaning, and applications of Exodus 28:20, drawing comparisons with other relevant scriptures, exploring the modern-day relevance of the verse, and offering a deeper commentary. By understanding the historical background and the spiritual symbolism of this verse, we can better appreciate the ways in which it speaks to our lives as Christians today.
The Context on Exodus 28:20 KJV
Exodus 28 provides Moses with explicit instructions regarding the garments that the high priest, Aaron, was to wear while performing his priestly duties. These garments were meant to symbolize the sacred and holy nature of the priesthood, as well as Israel’s covenant with God. The high priest was to represent Israel before God, making sacrifices, offering prayers, and interceding on behalf of the people.
Exodus 28:15-30 specifically details the design of the breastplate of judgment, a significant part of the high priest’s attire. This breastplate was made of fine linen, set with twelve stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The breastplate was worn over the high priest’s heart, close to his chest, as a reminder that he bore the tribes of Israel in his heart before God.
Exodus 28:20 is part of the description of the fourth row of stones on the breastplate:“And the fourth row a beryl, and an onyx, and a jasper: they shall be set in gold in their inclosings.” (Exodus 28:20, KJV)
This verse highlights the stones in the fourth row of the breastplate, which included beryl, onyx, and jasper. These stones, like the others on the breastplate, were not chosen by chance; each carried deep significance for the people of Israel, and together, they symbolized the overall relationship between God and His people.
The Exodus 28:20 Meaning
1. The Symbolism of the Stones
The stones mentioned in Exodus 28:20—beryl, onyx, and jasper—were precious gems with unique colors and meanings that went beyond their physical appearance. The high priest wore these stones over his heart, symbolizing his role as the mediator between God and Israel. Understanding the symbolism of these stones can help us grasp the theological significance of this verse.
Beryl is typically a greenish-blue stone, often associated with clarity and purity. In biblical times, beryl was considered a symbol of holiness and beauty. It could represent the clarity of God’s purposes and the purity required of His people.
Onyx is a black or dark stone, often symbolizing strength and endurance. In the Bible, onyx was used in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, reflecting its importance in sacred settings. Onyx may symbolize the enduring nature of God’s covenant with His people and His unshakable faithfulness.
Jasper is a stone that comes in various colors, but it is often depicted as a form of deep red or multicolored hues. Jasper can symbolize the diversity and completeness of God’s creation and His people. It may also represent the beauty and splendor of God’s presence.
The combination of these stones in the fourth row represents the collective nature of Israel’s relationship with God, encompassing beauty, endurance, and purity. Together, the twelve stones, each representing a tribe of Israel, showed how God’s people were united in their covenant relationship with Him, each tribe distinct yet part of the whole.
2. The High Priest’s Role of Mediation
The high priest wore the breastplate as a visible representation of his role as mediator between God and Israel. The stones, set in gold, symbolize the divine authority and the precious nature of the covenant. Just as the high priest was expected to carry the tribes before God in his heart, we, as believers, are called to carry one another in our hearts, offering prayers and intercession for the needs of the body of Christ.
The high priest’s breastplate, adorned with the twelve stones, was not just a piece of ceremonial clothing; it was a spiritual symbol that pointed forward to the ultimate High Priest—Jesus Christ. Hebrews 7:25 tells us that Jesus “always lives to make intercession” for His people. Just as the high priest bore the names of Israel before God, Christ bears the names of all believers, offering them before the Father in His eternal intercession.
Exodus 28:20 Application in Life
While the context and meaning of Exodus 28:20 have strong historical and theological significance, there are also powerful applications for Christians today. Understanding the symbolism behind the stones on the breastplate can encourage us in our own spiritual lives and help us better reflect God’s covenant in our daily walk.
1. Living with a Heart for Others
The high priest carried the names of the tribes of Israel on his chest, close to his heart. This act symbolizes the importance of intercession and the care that we should have for others. As Christians, we are called to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), to pray for one another, and to live in a way that reflects the love of Christ for His people.
The stones in the breastplate, particularly the beryl, onyx, and jasper, symbolize the diverse needs and strengths of the Christian community. Just as the high priest bore the names of all twelve tribes, we are called to care for people from all walks of life and to bring their needs before God.
2. Embodying Holiness and Purity
The beryl stone’s symbolism of clarity and purity reminds us that God desires holiness from His people. In 1 Peter 1:16, God calls us to be holy as He is holy. The purity represented by the beryl stone can encourage us to pursue lives that reflect God’s holiness. We are to be set apart from the world, living in ways that honor God and demonstrate His character to those around us.
3. Endurance in Faith
The onyx stone represents strength and endurance. As Christians, we are called to endure through trials and remain steadfast in our faith. James 1:12 reminds us, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him.”
The onyx stone can serve as a reminder to keep pressing on, trusting in God’s faithfulness, and relying on His strength to carry us through life’s challenges.
4. Appreciating the Beauty of Diversity
The jasper stone, with its variety of colors, symbolizes the beauty of diversity in the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 speaks about the body of Christ being made up of many parts, each with a unique function. Just as the jasper stone represents the splendor and diversity of creation, we are called to celebrate and value the differences within the Church while recognizing that each person has a unique role to play in God’s kingdom.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
1. Hebrews 7:24-25 – The Eternal High Priest
Exodus 28:20 speaks to the role of the high priest, who was the mediator between Israel and God. Hebrews 7:24-25 tells us that Jesus is our eternal High Priest who intercedes for us forever. He does not need to offer sacrifices for Himself, for He is without sin, but He continually intercedes for His people, carrying us before the Father just as the high priest once carried the names of the tribes.
2. Revelation 21:19-21 – The New Jerusalem
In the book of Revelation, the heavenly city, the New Jerusalem, is described as having twelve foundations adorned with twelve stones, similar to the stones on the high priest’s breastplate. The imagery in Revelation 21 highlights the beauty and holiness of the eternal dwelling place of God’s people. The stones mentioned in Revelation 21 are often seen as representing the twelve apostles, but they also symbolize the redeemed people of God, who are represented by the stones on the high priest’s breastplate.
The connection between Exodus 28:20 and Revelation 21 reminds us that the role of the high priest was a foreshadowing of the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan—the eternal redemption of His people, which we see fully realized in Christ.
Modern-Day Relevance
Exodus 28:20 continues to have relevance for modern Christians as we consider our roles in the body of Christ. The symbolism of the high priest’s breastplate reminds us of our calling to intercede for others, live holy lives, and endure in faith. It also highlights the importance of unity and diversity within the Church, as each member has a unique part to play in God’s kingdom.
In a world that often emphasizes individualism, the example of the high priest reminds us to live in community with others, carrying each other’s burdens and praying for one another. The stones on the breastplate call us to embrace both the beauty and strength of the body of Christ and to live lives that reflect God’s holiness and faithfulness.
Conclusion
Exodus 28:20 is more than just an ancient instruction about the high priest’s garments—it is a rich, symbolic passage that teaches profound spiritual truths. The stones on the breastplate represent the purity, strength, and beauty of God’s relationship with His people. These truths challenge us to live in holiness, intercede for others, and embrace the diversity of the body of Christ. Ultimately, this passage points us to Christ, our eternal High Priest, who fulfills the role of mediation and intercession on our behalf. Through understanding and applying the meaning of Exodus 28:20, we can deepen our relationship with God and grow in our commitment to His kingdom work in the world.
Exodus 28:20 Commentary
Exodus 28:20 is a verse that emphasizes the significance of the high priest’s role in the life of Israel. The precious stones—beryl, onyx, and jasper—symbolize the purity, strength, and beauty of God’s covenant. As the high priest wore the breastplate over his heart, it signified the deep care and intercession that he was to offer on behalf of God’s people.
Today, this verse calls Christians to live lives of holiness, endurance, and love for others, embodying the qualities that the stones represent. It reminds us of the ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ, who continually intercedes for us, carrying our names before the Father.
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