“When they go into the tabernacle of the congregation, they shall wash with water, that they die not; or when they come near to the altar to minister, to burn offering made by fire unto the Lord.”
Context:Exodus 30 describes the construction and consecration of the altar of incense and the bronze basin, which were important elements within the Tabernacle – the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The verse in question, Exodus 30:20, specifically addresses the regulations for the priests before they enter the Tabernacle or approach the altar for their duties.
Key Points:
- Purification through Washing:The verse emphasizes the importance of the priests being ritually clean before engaging in their priestly duties. They were required to wash their hands and feet with water before entering the Tabernacle or approaching the altar. This act of washing symbolised purification and the need for holiness in God’s presence.
- Reverence and Respect for God:The reason given for this purification ritual is to prevent the priests from dying. This illustrates the seriousness of approaching God in a state of impurity. God’s holiness demands reverence and respect, and failure to observe the proper rituals could result in severe consequences.
- Ministering at the Altar:The verse mentions two specific instances when the priests needed to wash with water – when they entered the Tabernacle and when they approached the altar to offer burnt offerings. These were crucial moments in their priestly service, and being ceremonially clean was a prerequisite for their duties.
- Symbolism:The act of washing with water goes beyond physical cleanliness; it holds symbolic significance. Water, in the Bible, often represents purification and cleansing from sin. By washing before ministering to God, the priests were symbolically acknowledging their need for spiritual cleansing and their desire to approach God with a pure heart.
Application:While the Tabernacle and its rituals are no longer practised in the same way today, there are valuable principles that we can apply from Exodus 30:20:
- Holiness in God’s Presence:As believers, we are called to approach God with reverence and respect. God’s holiness remains unchanged, and though we don’t perform the same rituals, our hearts should be prepared and pure when we come before Him in prayer, worship, or service.
- Confession and Repentance:Just as the priests symbolically washed away impurities, we should continually come before God in confession and repentance, seeking forgiveness for our sins. 1 John 1:9 reminds us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us.
- Spiritual Preparation:Before engaging in any ministry or service to God, it’s essential to take time to seek His presence and prepare ourselves spiritually. Spending time in prayer, studying the Word, and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in us will better equip us for effective service.
- The Priesthood of All Believers:In the New Testament, we learn that all believers are considered a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). We have direct access to God through Jesus Christ. Therefore, we should live in a manner that reflects our calling as holy people, set apart for God’s purposes.
In summary, Exodus 30:20 serves as a reminder of the significance of approaching God with reverence, purity, and prepared hearts. As we seek to serve and worship God, let us do so in the awareness of His holiness and the need for personal spiritual cleansing.
