Introduction
In today's devotional, we examine Exodus 27-28 and Matthew 21:23-46, passages that explore themes of sacred service and the authority of Jesus. These scriptures from different contexts offer insights into the role of the priesthood in ancient Israel and Jesus' challenge to religious authority, reflecting key aspects of Reformed and covenant theology.
Exodus 27-28 Summary
Exodus 27-28 provides detailed instructions for the construction of the altar of burnt offering and the courtyard of the Tabernacle, along with the design of the priestly garments for Aaron and his sons. These chapters emphasize the sanctity of the place of worship and the importance of the priests' role in mediating between God and His people. The specific instructions for the priestly garments, including the ephod, breastplate, and other items, symbolize holiness and dedication to God's service.
Matthew 21:23-46 Summary
In Matthew 21:23-46, Jesus' authority is challenged by the chief priests and elders in the temple. In response, He tells the Parable of the Two Sons and the Parable of the Tenants, both of which reveal the religious leaders' failure to recognize God's authority and their rejection of Jesus as the Messiah. These parables serve as a critique of the religious leadership's hypocrisy and their lack of genuine obedience to God's will.
Key Theological Concepts
Sacred Service and Divine Presence: The detailed regulations for the Tabernacle and the priestly garments in Exodus highlight the sacredness of service and the presence of God among His people.
Authority and Obedience to God's Will: Jesus' interactions with the religious leaders in Matthew demonstrate the importance of recognizing and submitting to God's authority, contrasting with the failure of the leaders to understand and obey God's will.
Judgment and Responsibility: The parables Jesus tells in Matthew 21 speak to the responsibility of those entrusted with God's word and the judgment that comes from rejecting His messengers and ultimately His Son.
Reflection
Exodus 27-28 and Matthew 21:23-46, while set in different times, both address the responsibility and authority associated with serving God. The careful preparation of the Tabernacle and the priestly garments in Exodus underscores the reverence due to God in worship and service. In Matthew, Jesus challenges the religious leaders, illustrating through parables that true authority lies in obedience to God's will, not in mere religious status. These passages challenge us to consider our own response to God's authority and the sincerity of our service to Him.
Application Points
Approach God with Reverence and Sincerity: Let the preparation of the Tabernacle inspire you to approach God with reverence in worship and daily life.
Recognize and Submit to Jesus' Authority: Reflect on Jesus' teaching about authority, examining how you acknowledge and submit to His lordship in your life.
Live Out Genuine Obedience to God: Be motivated by the parables in Matthew to live a life of genuine obedience to God's will, going beyond external appearances to heartfelt commitment.
Prayer
Lord God, as we explore the instructions for the Tabernacle and the priestly garments in Exodus, and Jesus' teachings in Matthew, we are reminded of the sanctity of Your presence and the importance of recognizing Your authority. Help us to serve You with reverence and sincerity, to acknowledge Jesus as our Lord and Savior, and to live in genuine obedience to Your will. May our lives reflect true commitment to You, and may we honor You in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.