How to Read the Ceremonial Law Using the Elector's Bible
What do we do with chapters like Exodus 25? How are they applicable to the Christian’s life today? It’s easy to slip over these passages. They seem unnecessary to concentrate on the details. But, as the apostle says, “they were written for our admonition” (1 Corinthians 10:11).
Exodus 25 may be broken down into six parts: . I. From where the material and the building of the tabernacle was taken, and how it was produced. II. Concerning the form and the shape of the tabernacle. III. Concerning the ark of the covenant. IV. Concerning the mercy seat. V. The table and what belongs to it. VI. Concerning the lampstand.
Now that we know how to break this chapter down, how may this be applied to our lives?
Admonition: “One should give an offering gladly and willing regarding the maintenance of the divine service [Gottesdienst], church, and school.” Verse 2.
Doctrine: “That the sanctuary must be made according to the example shown by God, means that the worship and the Christendom should be directed according to God's Word.” Verses 8,9.
Comfort: “That the stone tablets lay in the ark means that the whole Law was fulfilled for our justification by Christ (Whom the ark indicates).” Verse 16.
Comfort: “That from the mercy seat God revealed His will to Moses, and through him to the people, means that we shall obtain the knowledge of salvation from Christ (Whom the mercy seat indicates).” Verses 17-22.
Comfort: “The table with the showbread means that we will feed with our souls on the Word of God to salvation.” Verses 23-30.
Comfort: “The lampstand with the seven lamps that God, through the light of His Word, enlightens repentant believers for eternal life.” Verses 31-37.