Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 39:21 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 39:21 is part of the meticulous account found in the final chapters of the Book of Exodus, which describe the construction of the Tabernacle and the creation of the priestly garments. This verse holds significance not just in the historical context but also for its deep theological implications. In this article, we will explore the context, meaning, application, and relevance of Exodus 39:21, drawing connections to both the Old Testament and the New Testament, and ultimately examining its relevance for modern-day Christians.
The Context of Exodus 39:21 (KJV)
Exodus 39 occurs in the latter part of the book, where Moses and the Israelites, having received detailed instructions from God, set about constructing the Tabernacle—a portable sanctuary for the presence of God during their journey in the wilderness. Along with the construction of the Tabernacle itself, God provided specific instructions for the priestly garments, which were to be worn by the high priest and other priests as they served in the Tabernacle.
In Exodus 39, Moses records the final details of the craftsmanship, and the careful assembly of the high priest’s ephod, breastplate, turban, robe, and other garments. The priests’ attire was sacred and symbolic, as it represented the holiness, dignity, and authority of their office as mediators between God and Israel.
Exodus 39:21 specifically refers to the placement of the blue lace or cord that would attach the breastplate of judgment to the ephod. In this verse, we read:
“And they bound the breastplate by his rings unto the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it might be above the curious girdle of the ephod, and the breastplate might not be loosed from the ephod; as the Lord commanded Moses.” (Exodus 39:21, KJV)
This description is part of the larger process of the garments’ assembly, and the verse highlights the importance of securing the breastplate to the ephod with a blue lace. This was done to ensure that the high priest could not lose the breastplate, which contained the Urim and Thummim (used for divination and guidance from God), and that the sacred items remained intact during service.
The Exodus 39:21 Meaning
Exodus 39:21, while a detailed description of the craftsmanship involved in creating the priestly garments, carries profound theological significance. Let’s break down the meaning of this verse by focusing on key elements such as the blue lace, the breastplate of judgment, and the overall obedience to God’s commands.
1. The Blue Lace: Symbol of Sacred Connection
The blue lace that bound the breastplate to the ephod is noteworthy in the context of symbolism and obedience. In the Bible, blue is often associated with the divine and the heavenly. In Exodus 24:10, we read that the pavement of sapphire stone beneath God’s throne in heaven is blue. Blue, in this context, symbolized the holiness of God’s presence. By using blue lace to secure the breastplate, the Israelites were symbolically connecting the earthly (represented by the high priest) with the heavenly—signifying that the high priest’s role was divinely appointed and connected to God’s authority.
The blue lace also represented the continuity and integrity of the priestly office. Just as the lace bound the breastplate to the ephod, the high priest was bound to God’s commandments, and his role was to represent God’s will to the people of Israel. The act of binding was not just about securing physical garments; it was a symbolic act of ensuring the priest’s responsibility to maintain God’s holiness and commands.
2. The Breastplate of Judgment
The breastplate of judgment was a sacred item worn by the high priest. It contained twelve stones, each engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This breastplate was not merely an ornamental piece of clothing but served as a reminder of the high priest’s intercessory role. The breastplate symbolized that the priest carried the people’s burdens, sins, and needs before God, and it also represented God’s covenant with the tribes of Israel.
In Exodus 39:21, the breastplate’s secure attachment to the ephod ensures that it would remain firmly in place during the high priest’s service. This secure connection signified that God’s judgment and will, as represented by the breastplate, were inseparable from the high priest’s service. This act of binding reminds us that the priest’s role was to be firmly grounded in God’s commands and in His covenant with Israel.
3. Obedience to God’s Command
The final phrase of Exodus 39:21, “as the Lord commanded Moses,” emphasizes the obedience of the Israelites in carrying out God’s instructions. Every aspect of the Tabernacle and priestly garments, including the blue lace binding the breastplate, was to be done exactly as God commanded. This underscores the importance of obedience to divine directives in every detail of worship and service to God.
The phrase highlights that the Israelites were not simply following a set of guidelines but were adhering to a holy command given by God Himself. This deepens our understanding of how sacred the task of serving God was, especially in the context of the priesthood. The commitment to obedience is something that echoes throughout Scripture, particularly when it comes to God’s instructions about how we are to worship Him.
Exodus 39:21 Application in Life
Exodus 39:21 carries spiritual lessons that can be applied to the lives of modern-day Christians. While we are no longer under the Old Covenant with its physical priesthood and Tabernacle, the principles found in this verse still have powerful relevance in our walk with God. Below are some key life applications that emerge from this passage:
1. A Call to Sacred Responsibility
Just as the high priest had the sacred responsibility of mediating between God and Israel, Christians today are called to be ministers of reconciliation in the world. The blue lace that secured the breastplate symbolizes the sacred connection between us and God, and we are to carry the message of the gospel to others. Our actions, words, and attitudes are to be bound to the commandments of God, ensuring that we represent His will in all that we do.
In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul calls Christians to be “ambassadors for Christ,” bringing the message of reconciliation to the world. The high priest’s role in Exodus points forward to our calling as Christ’s representatives on earth.
2. Unity and Obedience
Exodus 39:21 demonstrates the importance of unity and obedience to God’s instructions. The Israelites were meticulous in following God’s commands regarding the Tabernacle and priestly garments, and this is a model for Christians today. In our daily lives, we must be obedient to God’s Word, ensuring that our actions align with His will. Just as the high priest’s garments were carefully constructed to symbolize holiness, our lives should be marked by holiness, purity, and devotion to God.
In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus emphasizes the importance of building our lives on the foundation of His teachings, illustrating the need for obedience in all areas of life.
3. Securing Our Relationship with God
The act of binding the breastplate securely to the ephod reminds us of the importance of securing our relationship with God through faith and obedience. The blue lace serves as a reminder that our connection to God is not accidental but intentional. Just as the high priest could not serve without his garments being properly secured, we too must ensure that our relationship with God is strong, secure, and based on His commands.
In John 15:4, Jesus says, “Abide in me, and I in you”, emphasizing the need for a secure, abiding relationship with Him. As Christians, we are called to remain connected to Christ, the true vine, and to bear fruit in keeping with God’s will.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
To deepen our understanding of Exodus 39:21, it is helpful to compare this passage with other related verses in Scripture:
1. Exodus 28:6-14 (The Ephod and Breastplate)
Exodus 28:6-14 provides further details about the ephod and the breastplate of judgment, which are central to understanding Exodus 39:21. The specific mention of the blue lace is part of the overall framework of the priestly garments designed to reflect the holiness and obedience that God required from His people. These garments were essential for the high priest’s role in mediating between God and Israel, and the careful design illustrates the importance of divine order.
2. Hebrews 9:11-15 (Christ’s Role as High Priest)
Hebrews 9:11-15 draws a parallel between the earthly high priest and Jesus Christ, who serves as our eternal High Priest. The Old Testament high priest had to wear the breastplate and ephod as symbols of his role in representing Israel before God. Christ, however, serves as the perfect High Priest, interceding on our behalf with His own blood, offering eternal redemption. This comparison helps us understand how the Old Testament rituals point forward to Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.
3. 1 Peter 2:9 (A Royal Priesthood)
In 1 Peter 2:9, believers are called a “royal priesthood” and a “holy nation”. This echoes the role of the high priest in Exodus 39, as believers today are called to live lives that reflect God’s holiness and to serve as mediators of God’s grace to the world.
Modern-Day Relevance
Exodus 39:21 has modern-day relevance in several important ways:
Holiness in Worship: Just as the high priest’s attire symbolized holiness, Christians today are called to approach God with reverence and honor in their worship and service. This includes living lives marked by obedience, integrity, and devotion to God.
Divine Order: The careful construction of the priestly garments illustrates the importance of divine order in all aspects of our lives. Christians are called to live according to God’s design and purpose.
Intercessory Role: Just as the high priest interceded on behalf of Israel, Christians are called to intercede for others in prayer, lifting up the needs of the world before God.
Conclusion
Exodus 39:21, while a detailed description of the priestly attire, carries deep spiritual significance. The blue lace binding the breastplate to the ephod symbolizes the holiness, obedience, and sacred responsibility of the high priest, which ultimately points to our calling as Christians today. We are called to live lives of holiness, to remain connected to God through obedience, and to intercede on behalf of others. As we reflect on the lessons of Exodus 39:21, we are reminded of the importance of securing our relationship with God and living in alignment with His will. Just as the Israelites were careful to follow God’s instructions, so should we be diligent in seeking His will for our lives.
Exodus 39:21 Commentary
Exodus 39:21 shows the meticulous attention to detail in the construction of the priestly garments. The blue lace that secured the breastplate to the ephod was not a mere functional element—it was a symbol of the priest’s connection to God’s holiness and authority. By following God’s commands in every detail, the Israelites demonstrated their reverence for the divine presence and their commitment to worshiping God according to His will.
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