The Hidden Meaning Behind Exodus 27:20 In 2023

The Context of Exodus 27:20

Exodus 27:20 is a verse found in the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically in the book of Exodus. This book tells the story of how God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and led them to the Promised Land. In this verse, God is giving instructions to Moses about the construction of the tabernacle, which was a portable sanctuary where the Israelites could worship and make sacrifices to God.

God tells Moses to command the Israelites to bring pure olive oil for the lampstand, which was a seven-branched candlestick that was to be placed in the tabernacle. The lampstand was to be kept burning continuously, from evening until morning, as a symbol of God’s presence among the Israelites.

The Symbolism Behind the Olive Oil

Many scholars believe that the olive oil mentioned in Exodus 27:20 has a deeper spiritual meaning. Olive oil was a precious commodity in ancient times, and it was often used for anointing kings and priests. In the Bible, anointing with oil is a symbol of being chosen by God and set apart for a special purpose.

Thus, the olive oil in Exodus 27:20 can be seen as a symbol of God’s anointing and blessing on the Israelites as they worshiped Him in the tabernacle. It was a reminder that they were a chosen people, set apart by God for a special purpose.

The Significance of the Lampstand

The lampstand mentioned in Exodus 27:20 was a crucial part of the tabernacle. As mentioned earlier, it was to be kept burning continuously, from evening until morning. This was a symbol of God’s constant presence and guidance in the lives of the Israelites.

Furthermore, the lampstand was made of pure gold and had seven branches, each with a lamp on top. The number seven is significant in the Bible and represents completeness and perfection. Thus, the lampstand can be seen as a symbol of God’s perfect and complete provision for the Israelites.

The Application for Today’s Christians

While Exodus 27:20 was originally addressed to the Israelites, it has important implications for Christians today. Firstly, the olive oil can be seen as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, which is often referred to as the “anointing oil” in the New Testament. Christians are also called to be set apart by God and to have a special purpose.

Secondly, the lampstand can be seen as a symbol of Christ, who referred to Himself as the “light of the world” (John 8:12). Christians are called to follow Christ and to be a light in the world, just as the lampstand was a light in the tabernacle.

The Importance of Continual Worship

The instruction to keep the lampstand burning continuously is also significant for Christians today. It is a reminder that worship and prayer should be a constant part of our lives, not just something we do on Sundays or when we feel like it.

Furthermore, the fact that the lampstand was to be kept burning from evening until morning suggests that worship and prayer should be a priority at both the beginning and end of each day. This is a good reminder for Christians to start and end each day with prayer and worship.

The Call to Holiness

Finally, Exodus 27:20 can be seen as a call to holiness. The Israelites were commanded to bring pure olive oil for the lampstand, which suggests that God requires purity and holiness in His people.

Similarly, Christians are called to be holy, as God is holy (1 Peter 1:16). This means that we should strive to live lives that are pleasing to God and that reflect His character.

Conclusion

Exodus 27:20 may seem like a simple instruction about olive oil and a lampstand, but it has deep spiritual significance for Christians today. It reminds us of God’s anointing and blessing, His constant presence and provision, and His call to holiness and worship. May we strive to live lives that reflect these truths.