Bible Commentaries

CONTENTS

The interesting subject of the Jewish tabernacle is still carried on in this Chapter. Here are directions given to Moses concerning the altar, the court of the tabernacle, and the oil for burning in the lamps of the candlestick.

Exodus 27:1

Was not this altar a type of Christ? Matthew 23:19; John 17:19.

The horns of the altar had the sacrifice fastened to them.; See Psalms 118:27. And was not Christ bound and fastened to the cross? Some have thought that the brass covering implied the Deity of Jesus covering the manhood. The horns of the altar was the place of refuge for offenders - see 1 Kings 1:50. Could anything be more expressive of the refuge in Jesus? Psalms 18:1-2.

Let not the Reader overlook the exact attention commanded, concerning these things. Hebrews 8:5.

Observe the dimensions of this court, about 50 yards long and 25 broad. How small for the reception of worshippers! Blessed be God under the gospel dispensation, it is extended beyond all limits. Malachi 1:11, with Matthew 18:20.

Observe these pillars. Then turn, for the spiritual illustration of them, to Revelation 3:10.

The court was the place of worship. And this was the hallowed spot after which David so longed. Psalms 84:2-10.

Is not this a lively a type of the Holy Ghost in his gifts and graces bestowed upon the church? Who but the Spirit can enlighten the mind of a poor darkened sinner, to give him the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ? Zechariah 4:11-12.

Is not the office of the priest in this place, intended to show how much it belongs to ministers to labour in the word and doctrine? Luke 1:8-9.

REFLECTIONS

MY soul! what do I behold in this view of the Jewish church? Is it not as the apostle said, these are a shadow of good things, but the body is Christ. Blessed be God! we have an altar, and a tabernacle, and a court, to enter into with praise. But what are all these if Jesus be not in them, and the sum and substance of all. Oh! may I, dearest Lord, accept thee as mine altar, that sanctifieth the gift, the sacrifice of atonement, and the high, priest to offer. And oh! may God the Holy Ghost in all his sweet influences, be the enlightening purifying oil, to illumine the darkness of my mind, and enable me to see Jesus in every one. Lead me, Holy Spirit, to flee for refuge to the horns of this altar, even to the crucified body and atoning blood of him that suffered thereon. And by him do thou enable me to offer the sacrifice of praise to God continuing, even the fruit of my lips, giving thanks to his name.