Meaning of Exodus 28:38

This verse, Exodus 28:38, highlights the profound theological concept of the high priest bearing the iniquity associated with the Israelites' sacred offerings. The inscription of "Holy to the Lord" on a plate of pure gold, affixed to the front of Aaron's turban, was not merely a decorative emblem but a functional and symbolic representation of his mediatorial role. It signifies that Aaron, as the high priest, was divinely appointed to stand between God and the people, and in doing so, he carried the responsibility for any imperfections or unintentional transgressions that might mar their consecrated gifts. This burden ensured that the offerings, despite human fallibility, would be deemed acceptable by God, thereby maintaining the covenant relationship and facilitating continued communion.

Context and Background

This verse is part of the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the priestly garments, specifically the high priest's attire. Exodus chapter 28 meticulously describes the ephod, breastpiece, robe, turban, and other vestments designed to bring "glory and splendor" (Exodus 28:2) and serve as a constant reminder of the Israelites' consecration to God. The "plate of pure gold" bearing the inscription "Holy to the Lord" was to be attached to the front of Aaron's turban. This position was deliberate, signifying visibility and prominence, underscoring the critical nature of his priestly duties and the holiness required for approaching God. Aaron, and subsequently his descendants who served as high priests, were to wear these garments whenever they ministered in the Tabernacle, a constant visible reminder of their sacred calling and the weighty responsibility they carried.

Key Themes and Messages

Several key themes emerge from this verse:

• Mediation and Atonement: The primary message is the high priest's role as a mediator. He acts as a bridge between a holy God and a sinful people. The inscription, "Holy to the Lord," emphasizes that his ministry is dedicated to God's service and that he bears the responsibility for bridging the gap of sin. This anticipates the ultimate atonement provided by Christ.
• Bearing Guilt: The phrase "he will bear the guilt involved in the sacred gifts" is crucial. It means that Aaron was responsible for ensuring the proper presentation of offerings and for covering any unintentional sins or ritual impurities associated with them. His presence and bearing of this guilt were essential for the sacrifices to be "acceptable to the Lord."
• Holiness and Acceptability: The inscription itself, "Holy to the Lord," is a declaration of consecration and separation for sacred service. It also implies that through the priestly ministry, the people and their offerings could be considered holy and acceptable to God.
• Perpetual Ministry: The phrase "continually" underscores the ongoing nature of the priestly work and the constant need for intercession and reconciliation. The high priest's role was not a one-time event but a continuous responsibility.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Theologically, this verse points to the inadequacy of human effort alone to approach a holy God. The Israelites, despite their best intentions, could not present their offerings perfectly. The high priest, by bearing their guilt, acted as a proxy, ensuring their acceptance. This foreshadows the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ. As believers, we are no longer under the Levitical system, but the principle of mediation and the bearing of sin remains central. Christ, our High Priest, has perfectly borne our guilt and made us acceptable to God through His atoning sacrifice.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

Exodus 28:38 is a foundational text for understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system and the concept of priesthood. It establishes the necessity of a divinely appointed mediator to bridge the chasm between God and humanity. This narrative thread continues through the Psalms, where kings and prophets often lament their sinfulness and seek God's favor, and culminates in the New Testament with the person and work of Jesus Christ. Hebrews, in particular, elaborates extensively on Jesus as the superior High Priest, fulfilling and superseding the Levitical priesthood.

Analogies

One analogy for the high priest bearing guilt is that of a diplomat representing their nation. The diplomat carries the weight of their country's intentions and actions on the international stage. If there are misunderstandings or missteps, it is the diplomat who must navigate those complexities to maintain good relations.

Another analogy is a lawyer representing a client. The lawyer takes on the responsibility of presenting the client's case, bearing the burden of legal argumentation and defense, so that the client can receive a just outcome. The lawyer's work is essential for the client's success in the legal system.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 25:22: "There I will meet with you and speak to you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony, about everything I will command you to give to the children of Israel." This verse establishes the place of divine encounter, which is facilitated by the priestly ministry described in Exodus 28.
• Leviticus 16: This chapter details the Day of Atonement, where the high priest performed specific rituals to atone for the sins of the entire nation, directly reflecting the concept of bearing guilt.
• Hebrews 4:14-16: "Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." This New Testament passage explicitly connects the Old Testament priestly role to Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest.
• 1 Peter 2:5: "You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." This verse speaks of the New Testament believers as a royal priesthood, reflecting the spiritual reality that through Christ, all believers have access to God.