A Biblical Vision, Part I: Mastering the Old Testament Witness to Christ

Sess ion 4: Jesus as Ful f i l lment of the Tabernacle, Pr iesthood, Sacr i f ices, and Fest ival s 63

4. The Golden Candlestick represents Jesus Christ as our Light.

Isa. 42.6 I am the Lord;

I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations. John 1.9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. John 8.12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

a. Exod. 25.31-40: this piece of furniture is also called the Lamp of God, see 1 Sam. 3.3.

b. Made of fine beaten gold. No measurements are given for the candlestick. Six branches and the main stem or shaft.

c. Given to give light to the Holy Place at night (cf. Exod. 30.7-8).

d. Represents Christ as the Light of the World, John 8.12; John 1.9; cf. Isa. 42.6.

5. The Altar of Incense represents the ministry of intercession constantly given on our behalf by Jesus Christ.

a. Exod. 30.1-7: made of shittim wood, overlaid with gold

b. Sweet incense was offered on it daily by the High Priest, Exod. 30.7-8.

c. A curse was pronounced on any who would use it for any other purpose than worship, Exod. 30.37-38.

Heb. 7.25 Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.

d. Represents Jesus Christ, our intercessor, Heb. 7.25; he prays for us, John 17.9.