God’s Tabernacle Design: The Priestly Garments

Exodus 39

Outline

1 | The production of the Priestly Garments
2-5 | The Ephod
6-7 | The shoulder pieces for the ephod
8-21 | The Breastpiece with its 12 stones
22-26 | The Robe of the ephod
27-29 | The linen tunics and breeches
30-31 | The plate for the crown of the turban
32-43 | All the work is completed and presented to Moses

Reflections

It is not uncommon in what is called high liturgical churches for the ministers or priests to where clerical robes and vestments.  Many even choose to wear shirts with a clerical collar as their everyday attire.  This might be a development over the years as a response to the Levites and priests wearing special clothes when serving in the temple.

God had specific designs in mind with regard to the garments that the high priest and the other priests and Levites were to clothe themselves.  In fact the various pieces of the high priest’s vestment has a specific purpose.  With the vestments completed, all the works are presented to Moses.

However these same robes can become a source of pride that is an affront to God and promotes separation from the very people they were to serve.  Consider the words of Jesus.

Mark 12:38-39 NASB In His teaching He was saying: “Beware of the scribes who like to walk around in long robes, and like respectful greetings in the market places, 39 and chief seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets

Luke 20:46 NASB “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love respectful greetings in the market places, and chief seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets

In fact Jesus and his disciples were not part of the priestly classes and wore simple clothes.  I think their attitude toward outward appearance would serve us well as what our own should be with regard to clothes and attitude.  Another verse to consider.

Romans 12:3 NASB For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.

Humility is an attitude most admired by God, we would do well to cultivate it in our lives and the lives of others.

Lord God, Your designs are specific and with great purpose but sometimes we humans, allow them to become distorted from their original meaning and purpose.  Then they become a source of pride and division and separation from Your people.  Lord, keep us humble and help us to be compassionate to others as we go about our days, giving honor to Your Great Name.  May Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven, in Jesus’ name.  Amen.

Exodus 39 - God's Tabernacle Design: The  Priestly Garments
Exodus 39 - God's Tabernacle Design: The Priestly Garments
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