In this chapter
there are five different sections in which we find plans for the following: 1. The
construction of the altar of incense (verses 1-10), 2. The census offering (verses
11-16), 3. The construction of the brazen Iaver (or basin; verses 17-21), 4. The
composition and purpose of the holy anointing oil (verses 22 - 33) & 5. The
composition of the incense (verses 34-38).
There are some
evident representations within this text from which we can glean spiritual
applications. First, the ascension of the smoke of the burnt incense would
represent the prayers and praises of God's people as they worshipped (Luke 1:10
& Revelation 8:3-4). Just as prayer and praise is a constant obligation in
this dispensation, the incense offerings were a daily responsibility too.
Second, the
absolute equality of the census offering (regardless of age or wealth)
illustrates the uniformity of the plan of redemption. The ransom for each soul
was to be the same whether the individual was affluent or destitute (Exodus
30:15). Likewise, there is only one way into the kingdom of heaven. No matter
whom you are, what you are, where you are or what you have done... the entrance
is the same for everyone. The value of every soul is the same. The price of
eternal life is the same. Pious devotees or calloused reprobates... the cost is
always the same (John 14:6 & Mark 10:15).
Third, the
progressive nature of salvation is seen in the placing of the basin between the
brazen altar and the entrance to the holy place (John 13:10, Philippians 1:6
& I John 3:2). While it is true that the sacrifice of Christ on the cross
covers the guilt of our sinful nature and our sinning soul, and despite the
fact that the journey to the perfect place of spiritual worship is relatively
short... we do still need to be cleansed along the way (I John 1:8-9 &
Philippians 3:12).
Finally, the holy
oil for anointing was representative of the Spirit of God. Everything that is
to be used in the worship of our God must be under the blessing and power of
the Holy Spirit (including us). And, that which is possessed by the anointing
Spirit of Christ should never be degraded by being wasted on any unholy
objective. By His consecrating presence,
the Holy Ghost changes everything (Galatians 5:22).
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