“And thou shalt make upon the breastplate chains at the ends of wreathen work of pure gold.”
Context:In Exodus 28, God instructs Moses on how to prepare the garments for Aaron, Moses’ brother, who would serve as the high priest. These garments had symbolic and practical purposes, distinguishing the high priest and signifying his unique role as a mediator between God and the people.
The Breastplate:The breastplate was an essential part of the high priest’s attire and was worn over the ephod, a sleeveless outer garment. It was a square piece of cloth, doubled to form a pouch-like structure, often referred to as the “breastplate of judgment” or the “breastplate of decision.” The breastplate was richly adorned with twelve precious gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:17-21).
Chains and Wreathen Work:The verse focuses on the intricate craftsmanship of the breastplate. At its corners or ends, the breastplate had chains made of pure gold. These chains were not merely decorative but served a practical purpose. They helped secure the breastplate to the ephod and the shoulder pieces of the ephod, keeping the entire priestly garment in place.
Symbolic Significance:The breastplate was a significant symbol of the high priest’s role in carrying the nation of Israel upon his heart and shoulders before the Lord. The names of the twelve tribes were engraved on the precious gemstones, and whenever the high priest wore the breastplate, it signified his responsibility to intercede for and represent the people before God. When he came before the Lord, he bore the weight of their burdens, needs, and sins, seeking God’s guidance and favor on their behalf.
Application for Today:While we may not be high priests in the Old Testament sense, the concept of intercession and bearing one another’s burdens is still relevant for Christians today. In the New Testament, believers are encouraged to pray for one another (James 5:16), bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2), and act as mediators, sharing the message of reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).
The breastplate with its chains reminds us of the importance of intercessory prayer and our call to stand in the gap for others, just as Jesus intercedes for us before the Father (Hebrews 7:25). It also signifies the weight and responsibility of being Christ’s ambassadors on earth (2 Corinthians 5:20), representing His love, grace, and truth to the world.
Conclusion:Exodus 28:22 teaches us about the beauty and significance of the breastplate of judgment worn by the high priest in the Old Testament. The chains made of pure gold remind us of the importance of intercessory prayer and bearing one another’s burdens as we fulfill our roles as ambassadors for Christ in the world today. Let us seek to be faithful intercessors and representatives of God’s love and truth to those around us.
