CHRISTIAN ACADEMY FOR LEADERSHIP STUDIES

Attention : Dear . . . . . . . . . . . . .  Please do not make copy of this course by any mode such as Xerox, Scan, Type etc. without the written permission from CALS.

TYPOLOGY (TYPES OF CHRIST)

Objective of the Course

                   This course helps every students to know the types of the Old Testament Scriptures and its antitype in the New Testament.

The Meaning of the word “Type”

                   The word type is derived from the Greek term “typos” which means “seal – impression”.  The English dictionary renders the meaning of type as “a pattern or a model or any character”.

The Definition of Type

                   The term “type” (typos) defined theologically as “a type is a divinely purposed illustration of some truth.  It may be a person (Rom. 5 : 14); an event (1 Cor. 10 : 11); a thing (Heb. 10 : 20); an institution (Heb. 9 : 11); a ceremonial (1 Cor. 5 : 7)” (The Scofield Reference Bible – p.4)

Typological Relation Between the Two Testaments

                   There is a close and clear relation between the two testaments on the matter of “Types”.  This relationship is summed up in Augustine’s epigram;  “In the Old Testament the New Testament lies hidden; in the New Testament the Old Testament stands revealed”. (New Bible Dictionary – p. 1126).  Scofield says “Types occur most frequently in the Pentateuch, but are found moré sparingly, elsewhere.  The antitype or fulfillment of the type is found, usually, in the New Testament” (Scofield Bible).  The types of the Old Testament are clearly revealed in the New Testament.   A type is the shadow of good things to come (Heb. 10 : 1).

Typology in Relation to Jesus Christ

                   There are a few types in the Bible (Eve – a type of the church. Eph. 5 : 25-32).  However, most of the biblical types are only related to Jesus Christ.  Many persons, events, are related to the type of Christ (Ex.).  Christ is the antitypical Passover lamb (Jn. 19 : 14, 36; 1 Pet. 1 : 19 ; 1 Cor. 5 : 7).  “In Romans 5 : 14, Adam is called ‘a type (typos) of the one who was to come’ (i.e. of Christ, the last Adam).  Adam as head of the Old creation, is an obvious counterpart to Christ” (New Bible Dictionary. P. 1227).

Note :  Our notes devote mainly on the types of Christ as revealed in the scripture.

Types of Christ

Genesis

                   The book of Genesis has several key types that portray the Saviour.

1. Adam is the type of Christ (Rom. 5 :14). Jesus Christ the last Adam.   As Adam is the head of the Old creation (Lk. 3 : 38). So Jesus Christ is the head of the new spiritual creation (2 Cor. 5 : 17).  Apart from their headship, they both have different qualities.  The following chart lists out the differences (Rom. 5 : 12-21).

2. Coats of Skins (3 : 21)

After Adam sinned, God gave him the coats of skins instead of Adam’s fig leave aprons (3 : 7).  This coats of skins were made of the skin of an animal which was killed, but not identified in the scripture.  This unidentified animal represents the death of Christ.  The coats of skins represent the righteousness that Christ brought to us through His death.  Christ’s righteousness to us is our garment of rigteousness (Rev. 19 : 8).

3. Abel’s Offering (Gen. 4 : 4)

Abel’s lamb typifies Jesus Christ as the “Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world” (Jn. 1 : 29).  It denotes the suffering and the death of Christ as sacrifice for the sin of the world.

4. Ark of Noah (6 : 14)

This ark typifies Christ as the refuge to believers from Judgement (Heb. 11 : 7).  As the ark protected and saved the family of Noah, from the universal flood, Jesus Christ will save His believers from the judgement.

5. Melchizedek (14 : 18-20)

          Melchizedek typifies Jesus Christ as the King Priest.  Melchizedek was the king of Salom; so Jesus Christ will be the king in Jerusalem.  Christ is the priest after the order of Melchizedek (Heb. 6 : 20 ; 7 : 2, 23, 24 ;        Is.   11 : 4-9)

6. Isaac (22)

Isaac obeyed to his father Abraham.  This event refers to the obedience of Jesus Christ (Phil. 2 : 5-8 ; Jn. 3 :16).  In obedience, Isaac typifies Jesus Christ.

7. The Ram (Gen. 22 : 13)

This ram was sacrificed in the place of Isaac.  Jesus was crucified in the place of sinner.  He died for our sins (1 Cor. 15 : 3,4 ; Heb. 10 : 5-10 ; 2 Cor. 5 : 21).  This ram typifies Christ death on behalf of sinners.

8. Joseph (Gen. 37-50)

Although the scriprtue does not explicitly state Joseph as a type of Christ, there are many analogies from the life of Joseph to Jesus Christ.

• Both were loved by fathers (Gen. 37 : 3 ; Mt. 3 : 17 ; Jn. 3 : 35 ; 5 : 20)

• Both were hated by brothers (Gen. 37 : 4 ; Jn. 15 : 25)

• Their superior claims were rejected by brothers (Gen. 37 : 8 ; Mt. 21 : 37, 39 ; Jn. 15 : 24, 25).

• Brothers conspired against both (Gen. 37 : 18 ; Mt. 26 : 3,4).

• Both became blessing to gentiles (Gen. 41 : 1-45 ; Act. 15 : 14)

These similarities typify Joseph to Jesus Christ.  Joseph is the type of Christ in His first advant, rejection by brothers, suffering, death etc.

Exodus

1. Moses (Ex. 2 : 10)

                   Moses in many ways is a type of Christ (Deut. 18 : 15).  He typifies Jesus Christ as Prophet (Act. 3 : 22,23), advocate (Ex. 32 : 31-35; 1 Jn. 2 : 1,2) intercessor (Ex. 17 : 1-6; Heb. 7 : 25) and leader (Deut. 33 : 4,5 ; Is. 55 : 4 ; Heb. 2 : 10).

2. The Passover (Ex. 12 : 11 ; Jn. 1 : 29, 36 ; 1 Cor. 5 : 7 ; 1 Pet. 1 : 18,19)

                   The Passover lamb must be without blemish.  The test was done for four days (Ex. 12 : 5,6).  So Jesus Christ’s public testimony  was pure and it was without blemish (Lk. 11 : 53,54 ; Jn. 8 : 46 ; 18 : 38).  As the tested lamb was slain, Jesus was crucified.  (Ex. 12 : 6 : Jn. 12 : 24 ; Heb. 9 : 22).  Lamb’s blood was applied (Ex. 12 : 7).  So by having faith on the cruficied Christ, one shall be saved through the blood of Christ.

                   The feast of Passover typified Jesus Christ, the bread of life (Mt. 26 : 26-28 ; 1 Cor. 11 : 23-26).

3. Manna (Ex. 16 : 35 : Jn. 6 : 31-35, 48-63)

                   Manna was food for Israel during their wilderness journey.  So also, Jesus Christ is the living bread which give spiritual life to believers.

4. The Rock (Ex. 17 : 5-7 ; 1 Cor. 10 : 3-4).

                   The smitten rock typified the crucified Jesus and His death.  Water is a source for living.  Through the death of Christ (smitten rock), the believers part take the  new life through the living water which Jesus gives (Jn. 4 : 10, 14 ; 7 : 37-39).  Water from the rock refers either God’s word (Jn. 6 : 63) or the Holy Spirit (Jn. 7 : 37-39).

5. Tabernacle (Ex. 25-40 ; Heb. 9 :1- 10:18)

                   The Tabernacle typifies the saviour in its material, colors, furniture, arrangements and the offerings sacrificed in it.

                   The colors of materials used in Tabernacle may typically refer as follows:

          Gold           –        Divine glory

          Silver          –        Redemption (Ex. 25 : 1 ; 30 : 12-16 ; 38 : 27)

          Brass           –        Symbol of Judgement (as brazen altar and brazen

serpent – Num. 21 : 6-9)

          Blue            –        Heavenly in nature / origin

          Purple         –        Royalty

          Scarlet         –        Sacrifice

The Ark of the Covenant in the Tabernacle : The ark typifies Jesus Christ.  Accacia wood, Shittim wood – (Ex. 26 : 15) is a desert plant, which is a symbol of Christ humanity (Is. 53 : 2).  The cover (gold) typifies the deity of Christ.

The contents of Ark :  It contains God’s law (Ex. 25 : 16), Manna (Ex. 16 : 33) and Aaron’s rod (Num. 17 : 10).  The law is the testimony of Christ (Jn. 5 : 39); Manna represents Jesus Christ as the bread / source of life (Matt. 26 : 26-28 ; Jn. 6 : 51, 58); and the Aaron’s rod represents the resurrection of Christ.

Mercy Seat (Ex.25 : 18-22) : It is the type of God’s throne (Heb. 4 : 16, Ezk. 1 : 5).

Brazen Altar (Ex. 27 : 1-8) :  It is a type of the cross.  The fire is of judgement, atonement is made on the altar (Heb. 9 : 14).

Showbread  (Ex. 25 : 23-30) :  It typifies Jesus Christ, the bread of God, nourisher of the Christian’s life (1 Pet. 2 : 9 ; 1 : 6 ; Jn. 6 : 33-58).  The manna represents the life-giving Christ; whereas the showbread represents the life-sustaining Christ.  The showbread also typifies Jesus Christ as ‘corn of wheat’ (Jn. 12 : 24), ground in the mill of suffering (Jn. 12 : 27) and brought into the fire of judgement (Jn. 12 : 31-33).

Candlestick (Ex. 25 : 31-40) : It shines in the dark place of tabernacle where natural light was excluded from.  As candlestick gives light, Jesus gives light (Jn. 1 : 4, 5, 9 ; 8 : 12).  Hence candlestick typifies Christ.

Boards (Ex. 26 : 15-30) : These are made with Shittim (Acacia wood) and covered with gold.

The Inner Veil (Ex. 26 : 31-35):  It typifies the body of Christ (Christ’s human body) (Mt. 26 : 26 ; 27 : 50 ; Heb. 10 : 20).  When Christ died on the cross, it was torn (Mt. 27 : 51).

The Fine Linen (Ex. 26 : 1, 36-37) :  The fine linen typifies the sinless perfect life of Jesus Christ.  He lived sinless.  It hanged at the door of the tabernacle.

The Gate of the Court (Ex. 27 : 16-19) :  The gate of the court as well as the door of the tabernacle represents Jesus who Himself said that  I am the door (Jn. 10 : 9).  There was only one gate for the court as Jesus Christ is the only way to have eternal life.

The Altar of Incense (Ex. 30 : 1-10) :  It typifies Lord Jesus Christ as our Intercessor (Jn. 17 : 1-26 ; Heb. 7 : 25).  Through Him, our prayer and praises ascend to God (Heb. 13 : 15 ; Rev. 8 : 3, 4).

Laver (Ex. 30 : 17-21) :  It also typifies Christ.  It was made of brass.  It contains water in it.  The priests must wash their hands and feet in it.  It symbolizes how Jesus Christ cleanses us from all our sins (Jn. 13 : 2-10 ; 1 Jn. 1 : 7-9).

6. Aaron

                   He was the very first high priest in Israel.  Jesus Christ is our heavenly high priest. (Heb. 7, 9).

Leviticus

                   The book of Leviticus deals elaborately about the Religious sacrificial system and moral principles that govern the nation of Israel.  The sweet savour offering typifies  Christ’s perfections.

1. The Burnt – Offering (Lev. 1 : 1-17)

                   It typifies Jesus Christ offering himself as the perfect sacrifice.  It is an atonement for sin.  Jesus Christ is the perfect atonement for sinner.  It is also substitutionary.  Jesus is the substitute; so He died on behalf of sinners (Heb. 9 : 11-14 ; 10 : 5-7).

Creatures Acceptable for Sacrifice

1. The bullock or ox typifies Jesus Christ as the enduring servant, obedient unto death (1 Cor. 9 : 9, 10 ; Heb. 12 : 2,3 ; Isa. 52 : 13-15 ; Phil. 2 : 5-8).

1. The sheep or lamb typifies Jesus Christ in unresisting self-surrender to the death (Is. 53 : 7 ; Act. 8 : 32-35).

1. The goat typifies Jesus Christ as the substitute for the sinner. He was made sinner although He, Himself was not a sinner (Mt. 25 : 33 ; Is. 53 : 12 ; Lk. 23 : 33 ; Gal. 3 : 13 ; 2 Cor. 5 : 21).

1. The turtle – dove or Pigeon typifies the innocency of Jesus Christ. Pigeon is a bird of innocency. (Is. 38 : 14 ; 59 : 11 ; Mt. 23 : 37 ; Heb. 7 : 26).  It also typifies the humility of Christ, who became poor for the poor. (Lev. 5 : 7 ; Lk. 9 : 58 ; 2 Cor. 8 : 9 ; Phil. 2 : 6-8 ; Lk. 2 : 24).

1. The non sweet – savour offering (Lev. 5 : 1 – 6 : 7) typifies Jesus Christ as bearing the whole demerit (sins) of the sinner. It is also substitutional.  He suffered in stead of sinners.  The trespass – offering is the non sweet savour offering.

2. The Meal – Offering (Lev. 2 : 1-16)

                   It has many incredients such as

                   Every incredients of meal offering explains one character of Jesus Christ, our perfect sacrifice.

3. The Peace Offering (Lev. 3 : 1-17)

                   Jesus brought peace to humanity.  He is our peace (Eph. 2 : 14), He made peace (Col. 1 : 20) and proclaimed peace to us (Eph. 2 : 17).

4. The Sin Offering (Lev. 4 : 1-35)

                   Sin offering is made for sins.  Jesus Christ is the perfect sin offering for the sinners.  This offering is substitutional and efficacious (Lev. 4 : 12, 29, 35).  Jesus is substitute for sinners.

5. The High Priest (Lev. 8 : 1-13)

                   Aaron was the first high priest of Israel.  Jesus Christ is our eternal High Priest.  He intercedes with the Father for the sinner.  Oil was poured on Aaron for anointing but Jesus was truly anointed by the Holy Spirit (Jn. 3 : 34 ; Heb. 1 : 9).

6. The Goat-slain (Jehovah’s Lot) (Lev. 16 : 5-10) typifies Christ’s death which vindicates the righteousness of God as expressed in the law (Rom. 3 : 24-26). It is expiatory.

7. The Living-goat (Lev. 16 : 5-10) typifies Christ’s work which puts away our sins (Heb. 9 : 26 ; Rom. 8 : 33, 34).

8. Entering into the Holiest

                   Only the High Priest can enter into the holiest place of Tabernacle.  The high priest entering the holiest typifies Christ’s entering into “Heaven itself” with His own sacrificial blood” for us (Heb. 9 : 11, 12 ; Lev. 16 : 23-24 ; Heb. 10 : 19-22 ; Heb. 10 : 1).

                   The Old Testament sacrifices of atonement typified the Cross in which Christ died. (Rom. 3 : 23, 24, 25 ; Ex. 29 : 36 ; Heb. 10 : 4).

9. The Kinsman – Redeemer (Lev. 25 : 47-55)

                   As Kinsman – Redeemer pays to redeem his relatives, Jesus Christ paid for us and redeemed us from the clutches of sin (Ruth 2 : 1 ; 3 : 10-18 ; 4 : 1-10)

11. The Jewish Feasts

1. Passover (Lev. 23 : 4,5, Ex. 12 : 11). It is the very first feast of Israel. It is memorial of redemption which was given by the Lord to them from Egyptian slavery.  Typically it stands for “Christ our Passover lamb, sacrificed for us” (1 Cor. 5 : 7).  It was observed on the fourteenth day of the first month.

1. The Feast of Unleavened Bread (Lev. 23 : 6-8) : This feast tells of communion with Jesus Christ, the unleavened wave-loaf, in the full blessing of His redemption. (1 Cor. 5 : 6-8 ; 2 Cor.7 : 1 ; Gal. 5 : 7-9). It was on the fifteenth day of first month (next day of Passover).

• The Feast of First Fruits (Lev. 23 : 10-14, Ex. 23 : 16 ; 34 : 22): This feast typifies the resurrection of Christ (1 Cor. 15 : 23) and the believers’ resurrection at His coming. (1 The. 4 : 13-18).  Wave-sheaf typifies Christ, who has no evil. (Some identify this feast and Pentecost are the same but they vary due to sacrificial methods – Lev. 23 : 12, 18).

1. The Feast of Pentecost (Lev. 23 : 15-22) : This feast was meant for 50 days. The wave loaves – offered after wave-sheaf offering typifies the church believers who have evil (sin-leaven baked) in them (Num. 28 : 26).

1. The Feast of Trumpets (Lev. 23 : 23-25) : This is a prophetical type and it refers to the future regathering of long-dispersed Israel. (Is. 18 : 3 ; 27 : 13 , 58 ; Joel 2 :1-3 : 21).

1. The Day of Atonement (Lev. 23 : 26-32 ; Lev. 16) : An atonement was made on this day for sin. It was observed once in a year (Ex. 30 : 10)

• The Feast of Tabernacles (Lev. 23 : 33-44) : This feast like Passover, a memorial feast.  In this, Israelites remember their redemption out of Egypt.

Note :  These are the seven feasts mentioned in the book of Leviticus.  Some consider Passover and the feast of unleavened bread is the same.  There is another feast, known as the feast of Purim (Esther 9).

Numbers

1. Aaron’s rod that budded (17 : 1-13) : The budded rod of Aaron was a type to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. All brought dead rod, but God gave life to Aaron’s rod, and conformed his priestly office.  So also, by the resurrection, the priesthood and Messiahship of Jesus Christ was proved in the world (Heb.4 : 14 ; 5 : 4-10).

2. The Red-heifer (Num. 19) : This red heifer typifies Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross, more specifically His blood.  The blood of Christ cleanses our sins of guilt and sins of uncleanness (1 Jn. 1 : 7-9).

3. The Brazen Serpent (Num 21 : 5-20) : The serpent is a symbol of sin and death. Brass speaks of the divine judgement as in the brazen altar (Ex. 27 : 2).  Hence, the brazen serpent typifies Jesus Christ “made sin for us” (Jn. 3 : 14, 15 ; 2 Cor. 5 : 21) and bore our sins.

4. The Cities of Refuge (Num. 35) : The criminal could run to these cities for the protection of his life.  (Ps. 46 : 1 ; 142 : 5 ; Is. 4 : 6 ; Ex. 21 : 13 ; Deut. 19 : 2-9 ;Rom. 8 : 1,33,34 ; Phil. 3 : 9 ; Heb. 6 : 18, 19).  Likely, a sinner can come to Jesus Christ for his eternal security.

5. The Rock (Num. 20 : 7-13) : The rock, smitten refers to crucifixion (Ex. 17). It should not have been smitten again.   It was failure of Moses; because Christ should be crucified only once for sinners.  Second time he will not be crucified.  But He will quench the spiritual thirst of people (1 Cor. 10 : 4).

6. The Pillar of Cloud and Fire (Num. 9 : 15-23) typifies the guidance and protection of Christ to the believers (Jn. 10 : 27-29).

Joshua

1. Joshua : The word “Joshua” means “Jehovah is Salvation”, in Hebrew.  The Greek equivalent to Joshua is Jesus(Act. 7 : 59).  Joshua is a type of Christ.  As Joshua lead victoriously the people of Israel in the promised land, (Heb. 4 : 8).  Jesus will lead many sons to glory (Heb. 2 : 9,10).  Christ is the captain of our salvation.

2. Raheb’s scarlet Cord (2 : 21) : This scarlet cord (Red) is a symbol of “salvation through” the blood of Christ (Heb. 9 : 19-22).

Judges

                   Judges functioned as ruler-deliverer of the people of Israel.  They all typified the saviour Jesus Christ in His work as Saviour and Lord, the Righteous Deliver King.

Ruth

1. Kinsman – Redeemer. Boaz was relative of Naomi. He as a relative did the role of Kinsman – redeemer.  The characteristics of Kinsman redeemer are as follows:

• he must be a blood relative (a Kinsman) of those he redeems(Deut. 25 : 5,7-10 ; Jn. 1 : 14 ; Rom. 1 : 3 ; Phil. 2 : 5-8 ; Heb. 2 : 14-15).

• He must be able to pay the price of redemption (2 : 1 ; 1 Pet. 1 : 18, 19).

• He must be willing to redeem (3 : 11 ; Mt. 20 : 28 ; Jn. 10 : 15, 19 ; Heb. 10 : 7).

• He must be free himself as Christ was free from the curse of sin, being without sin (2 Cor. 5 : 21 ; 1 Pet. 2 : 22 ; 1 Jn. 3 : 3).

First Samuel

The anointed one (1 Sam. 2 : 10).  The Hebrew term Messiah means “the anointed one”.  It refers to the king who is anointed over Israel.  Jesus Christ is “the king of kings”.  He will rule the world in the millennial kingdom (1000 years).

Second Samuel

Throne of David : This throne typifies the kingship of Jesus Christ.  As David was a powerful king of united Israel, Jesus Christ will be the powerful king over the world. (II Sam. 7).

First Kings

                   Solomon was a wise king in Israel.  His wisdom was spoken all over the world. Jesus Christ is wiser than Solomon.  In that sense Solomon portrays Jesus Christ in wisdom. The Ark of the covenant (I Kings 8 : 1-11), is a type to Jesus Christ (Ex. 25 : 9; Refer the Book of Exodus for the Ark).

Second Kings

                   The ministry of Elijah is reminded by the ministry of John, the Baptist.  However the ministry of Elisha is compared to the ministry of Jesus Christ.  As Elisha did many miracles to meet the needs of individuals and families, Jesus did many miracles to meet the needs of the poor individuals.

First Chronicles

                   Ruler over my people Israel (17 : 7) refers to the kingship of Jesus Christ (Messiah). (Rom. 1 : 3 ; Isa. 11 : 10-12 ; Jer. 23 : 5-8 ; Lk. 1 : 32, 33 ; Acts. 15 : 14-17).

Second Chronicles

• The Temple of Jerusalem is a beautiful portrait of Jesus Christ. However, Jesus Christ is greater than the temple (Mt. 12 : 6 ; Jn. 2 : 19 ; Rev. 21 : 22).

Nehemiah

                   Nehemiah portrays Jesus Christ in his willingness to leave his high position of office in order to bring about His work of restoration.  Jesus also left His glory in heaven and came to the world to save the sinner (Phil. 2 : 5-8 ; Lk. 19 : 10).

Job

1. Redeemer (19 : 25-27) clearly portrays Jesus Christ our redeemer.

2. Mediator (9 : 33 ; 33 : 23). The mediator is non other than Jesus Christ.  He mediates between God and sinner based on the work, he did on the cross.

Psalms

Psalm 2 :  This Psalm is a messianic.  It indirectly tells about the son and His messiahship.

Psalm 16 : It has a prediction about the resurrection of Jesus Christ (16 : 9,10).

Psalm 22 : It portrays about the suffering and crufixion of coming Saviour, the good shepherd (Jn. 10 : 11).

Psalm 23 portrays Jesus Christ as the true and great shepherd (Heb.13 : 20).

Psalm 24 portrays Jesus Christ as the Chief Shepherd and the King(1 Pet. 5 :4).

Psalm 51 : 7 : Hyssop was a plant of the mint family.  It was used in the purifying of lepers (Lev. 14 : 2-7 , 49-52) and the sacrifice of the red heifer (Num. 19 : 2-6).  It was a symbol for cleansing effect of the blood of Christ       (1 Jn. 1 : 7).

Psalm 118 : 22 : The stone once rejected will be exalted.  The stone here refers to Christ for his rejection and crucifixion and for his final exaltation as king of glory (Ex. 17 : 6 ; 1 Pet. 2 : 8 ; Ps. 2).

Isaiah

The Branch of the Lord (4 : 2)  : This title typifies Christ’s Divine nature (Is. 7 : 14 ; Mt. 1 : 21-24).

The Branch of David / Stem of Jesse (Is. 11 :1-10) :  This title tells the Christ / Messiah would be from the family of David, so that He can be the righteous King (Jer. 23 : 5 ; 33 : 15 ; Rom. 1 : 3).

Jehovah’s Servant, the Branch (Is. 52 : 13-15 ; 53 : 1-12 ; Zech. 3 : 8) : This passage explains as to how Jesus Christ would suffer as the servant in order to redeem the people from the bondage of sin.

Jeremiah

                   The prophet Jeremiah himself typifies Jesus Christ in relation to suffering. As Jesus suffered in the hands of his own people (Jews), Jeremiah suffered in the hands of people then (Jn. 1 : 11).

                   Jesus Christ is portrayed as the fountain of living waters (2 : 13 ; Jn. 4 : 14 ; 7 : 37-39);  The balm of Gilead (8 : 22); the good Shepherd (23 : 4 ; Jn. 10), the Righteous branch (23 : 5) and the Lord our Righteousness (23 : 6).  He will bring the new covenant through Righteousness (31 : 31-34).

Lamentations

                   Jeremiah pictures a ‘man of sorrows’ over the fall and destruction of Jerusalem. (1 : 12 ; 3 : 19 ; 2 : 15-16 ; 3 : 14, 30).  Jesus Christ was also sorrowful over Jerusalem and its fate which would come on it (Mt. 23 : 37-38).

Ezekiel

                   The tender sprig that will be planted on a high and lofty mountain (Ezek. 17 : 23-24) typifies Christ, the Messiah.  It is similar to the Branch in Isaiah (11 : 1), in Jeremiah (23 : 5 ; 33 : 15) and in Zechariah (3 : 8 ; 6 : 12).  Ezekial also mentions Christ as the king(21 : 26-27) and as the true shepherd (34 : 11-31).

Daniel

                   Daniel mentions that the Messiah would be cut off, which refers to cross and crucifixian of Christ (9 : 25-26).  Jesus Christ is also portrayed as the great stone (small stone 2 : 34, 44, 45 ; 7 : 9) the son of man (7 : 13) and the ancient of Days (7 : 22).

Hosea

                   Messiah is presented as the son of God (11 : 1 compare with Mt. 2 : 15).

Joel

                   Christ is portrayed as the one who gives the Holy Spirit (Compare 2 : 28 with Jn. 16 : 7-15 ; Act. 1 : 8); He is the judge of the nations (3 : 2, 12).

Amos

                   Jesus Christ is presented as the one who rebuilds David’s dynasty (9 : 11-15).  This will be fulfilled when Christ becomes the king during millennium (1000 years rule of Christ on earth).

Obadiah

                   Jesus Christ is portrayed as the judge (15 – 16) and the Possessor of the kingdom (21).

Jonah

                   Jonah’s deliverance from the fish typifies the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Mt. 12 : 40 ; Jonah 1 : 17 ; 2 : 1-10).

Micah

                   Jesus Christ is portrayed as the Judge (4 : 3) and the Ruler of the nations (5 : 2 ; Mt. 2 : 1-6).

Habakkuk

                   Jesus is portrayed as the saviour (3 : 13, 18 ; Mt. 1 : 21), as the Holy One (compare 1 : 12 with 1 Jn. 1 : 9).

Zephaniah

                   The Messiah (Jesus Christ) is presented as the Righteous one (3 : 5) and the King (3 : 15).

Haggai

                   Jesus Christ, the Messiah is presented as the Restorer of the Temple’s glory (2 : 7-9).  He will also overthrow all the kingdoms of the world to establish His kingdom (2 : 22).

Zechariah

                   Christ is portrayed as the Righteous Branch (3 : 8).  He is also presented as the pierced one; which refers to His crucifixion (12 : 10); as the coming king (9 :9-10) and the smitten shepherd (13 : 7).

Note : We have studied the important types which refers to the Lord Jesus Christ.  Now, we can study how Jesus Christ is portrayed in the tabernacle and its matrials as well as sacrifices.

TABERNACLE

                   God redeemed the people of Israel from the bondage of Egypt.  God also showed them a form of worship by giving the plan of Tabernacle.  God showed the model of Tabernacle to Moses on the Mount.  He carefully executed God’s plan of Tabernacle so that all Israel could worship the Lord during their wilderness journey.  Later, the Tabernacle system of worship was changed to temple worship during the rule of king Solomon.  Except the permanent walls of temple, everything was generally common both in Tabernacle and in Temple. Therefore the study about Tabernacle is important not only for the people of Israel, but also for the Christian.  Because many aspects of Tabernacle typifies Jesus Christ’s work and ministry on the earth during his first advent.  Tabernacle was a shadow of good things to come (Heb.10 :1 ; 9 : 11 ; 6 : 19-20).

The Terms used for Tabernacle

                   There are various terms in different English versions for Tabernacle such as “dwelling of Jehovah” (Ex. 25 : 9 ; Lev. 17 : 4); dwelling of the covenant / testimony because it housed the covenant Tablets (AV, RSV-in Ex. 38 : 21); Tent of Meeting since God appointed this place to meet His people (AV-Tabernalce in Ex. 28 : 43 ; 39 : 32); Sanctury (Ex. 25 : 8); Holy Place (Ex. 38 : 24) and House of Jehovah (Ex.34 : 26).  During the period of Solomon, Temple of Jerusalem was built permanently instead of Tabernalce.

The Plan of the Tabernacle (Ex. 26 : 1)

                   The plan of the Tabernacle was shown by God to Moses on the Mount (Ex. 27 : 8).  He made it with the help of gifted artisans (Ex. 31 : 1-11 ; 35 : 10, 30-35 ; 36 : 1) and the materials given by the people of Israel (Ex. 35 : 20-29 ; 36 :2-7).  The list of all the Articles made and used for theTabernacle is mentioned in Exodus 35 : 10-19.

Articles of the Tabernacle

                   There are seven important articles used inside the tabernacle.  They have some significance in relation to Christ and His life and ministry.  These articles were inside the fencing (150 feet long x 75 feet wide x 7 ½ feet high = Exodus 27 : 9-19).  The entrance (30 feet wide) was at the East.  When one  enters into the premise of Tabernacle through the entrance at the east, one could first see the Altar of Burnt offering.  Between the altar of burnt offering and the door of the Holy place, there stood the laver to keep water (Ex. 30 : 17-21 ; 38 : 8 ; 40 : 29-32).

                   When the priest enters through the door of the Holy Place, there on the North side stood the Table of show-bread and on the south side stood the Golden Lamb Stand.  The golden altar of Incense stood in the holy place before the veil of entrance to the Most Holy Place.

                   The High Priest has the right to enter into the Most Holy Place.  In the Most Holy Place, the Ark of the covenant stood.  The Mercy seat of pure gold with a Cherub at each end rested on top of the Ark of the covenant.  Having studied about the general arrangements of articles in the Tabernacle, the additional information about each article is as follows:

1. The Altar of Burnt Offering (Ex. 27 : 1-8)

                   It was made of acacia wood, covered with copper / Brass / Bronz.  Hence it was also called as copper altar or bronze altar.  This altar stood on a raised place near the first entrance of Tabernacle.  This raised place is probably referred by Christ too (Jn. 12 : 32).  The sinner would bring his sacrificial lamb and lay his hands on the lamb as a mark of transferring his sins over the lamb, while confessing his sins.  Then he would sacrifice the animal and bring the blood of sacrificed animal to the priest.  The priest would sprinkle the blood of sacrificed animal over the four horns of bronze altar.  He would pour the remaining blood under the altar and burn the body of sacrificed animal on the altar of burnt offering.  The lamb was killed instead of a sinner.

                   The lamb killed instead of sinner typifies Jesus Christ and His sacrificial death.  The altar typifies the place of death, probably signifies the cross on which Christ died for the sins of the world.  Through altar of burnt offering only, one could enter into Tabernacle.  So also one can enter to heaven by accepting sacrificial death of Christ on behalf of him.

2. The Laver (Ex. 30 : 17-21)

                   The complete details of its size, shape and ornamentation are not given.  However, it was used to hold pure water.  The priest cleanses himself in water before entering holy place.  As the altar of burnt offering represents the cross of Christ, the water in laver represents the word of God.  As the water purifies the dirt, the word of God constantly purifies the sins of believer in his daily walk.  So believer must read God’s word daily.

3. The Table of Showbread (Ex. 25 : 23-30)

                   This table stood at the North of Holy Place – right hand side of the entrance of Holy Place.  The height was 2 ¼ feet as similar to the height of the Ark of covenant.  On this table, there were twelve loaves of bread, representing the twelve tribes of Israel.  The bread was daily removed and kept fresh bread daily by the priests.  The bread typifies the Lord Jesus Christ, who gives life (Jn. 6 :35).  The table represents fellowship and centre of unity and integrity.

4. Gold Lamp stand(Ex. 25 : 31-40)

                   The lamp stood just opposite the table of showbread. In the holy place,  the light of lamp was necessary for the priest who ministered in the holy place, because outside light could not enter into the holy place.  The lampstand was made of pure gold, with a main shaft and six branches.  Pure gold refers to God’s perfection.   Oil was used in the lamp.  Oil represents the Holy Spirit work of illumination.  The light of lamp typifies Jesus Christ and His word (Jn. 9 : 5 ; Ps. 119 : 105).

5. The Altar of Incense (Ex. 30 : 1-10)

                   This altar stood in the holy place in front of the entrance veil of the Most Holy Place.  It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold. So it was also called the golden altar. This altar’s size was smaller than the altar of burnt offering.  The altar had four horns at each corner.  The height of this altar was 3 feet, higher than the table of showbread and the ark of covenant     (2 ¼ feet) .

                   The priest from the line of Aaron must burn incenses on it both morning and evening daily.  Once in a year, on the day of atonement, the priest must make an atonement on the horns by the blood of sin offering of atonement (Num. 16 : 46).  The priest would burn incenses on it. The smokes of this incenses typifies the prayers of believers (Ps. 141 : 2 ; Mat. 1 : 11 ; Lk. 1 : 10 Rev. 5 : 8).

                   Sinners are redeemed by the sacrifice made on the altar of burnt offering, but they are protected by the incenses (Prayer) on the golden alter.  So the bronze altar (cross) is the symbol of our salvation, the golden altar is the symbol of prayer and protection of believers.

6. The Ark of the Covenant (Ex. 25 : 10-22)

                   The ark of the covenant was the most sacred of all furniture in Tabernacle.  This ark was a symbol of God’s covenant with the people of Israel (Lev. 26 : 12 ; Ex. 6 : 7).  The tablet of Ten commandments, Aaron’s budded rod, and Manna in a golden bowl were kept in this ark, which was in the most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) (Num. 17 : 8-10; Heb. 9 : 4).  The size was 3 ¾ long x 2 ¼ wide x 2 ½  feet high.  It was covered with pure gold.

7. The Mercy Seat

                   It was placed and positioned over the ark of the covenant.  It was made of pure gold.  A cherub was at each end of Mercy Seat (Ex. 25 : 17-25; 37 : 6-9).  According to the Jews, the place where the ark of covenant and Mercy seat stood was the most holy place.  Mercy seat typifies Jesus Christ.  The slab of ten commandments represented the Law (Law of Moses).  The law condemned the sinners but the Mercy seat accepted the sinners.

The Priest of Tabernalce

                   At the early stages of human history, Father the head of the family did the role of priests (Ex. Adam, Abel, Noah, Abraham, Job etc.).  However, Abraham paid thithes to Melchizedec (Gen. 14 : 18-20). This system, Father being the priest, probably continued until the time Israelites were delivered from the slavery of Egypt.  When God delivered them from Egypt, He gave them the law of Moses.  In the law, God selected the tribe of Levi to be His priests of Tabernacle-.  From the Levi tribe, God elected Aaron as the High Priest.  The priests were anointed by oil (Ex. 29 : 1-18) and sacrifices were offered for them while preparing them for the office of priests.  This preparations were done for seven days continually.  While anointing them, the priests were with priestly garments.  Priest’s dress distinguished the priest from common men.

Tunic / Coat

                   All priests wore this cloth during liturgical service.  It covered their hips and thighs.  (Ex. 28 : 42-43 ; Lev. 16 : 4).  This was made white in colour.  This was inner cloth  to the High priest.

The Robe

                   The High Priest wore this robe over   tunic.  This was blue in colour (Ex. 39 : 22-26).  The blue colour represents “grace” of God.  The robe was long embroidered tunic with sleeves (Ex. 28 : 40 ; 39 : 22-29). Beside the embroidery works of blue, purple and scarlet, the robe had bells of pure gold.  This bells made sound, when the high priest entered into the Holy place. (Ex. 28 : 31-35).  This dress showed his special responsibility to God and His authority.  The pomegranates symbolize peace (Joel 1 : 12).  The bell sound announced peace.

Note :  Apple fruit symbolizes “Love”  while the grapes symbolizes happiness (Jn. 15 : 11; Gal. 5 : 22). 

Belt (Ex. 28 : 40 ; 39 : 27)

                   This belt was made of twined linen, blue, purple and scarlet staff.  The belt tied at waist symbolizes the preparedness.  The priest must be prepared with truthfulness for the service of people in the presence of God (Eph. 6 : 14 ; Deut. 8 : 7).

Breast Plate (Ex. 39 : 8-21)

                   The size of breast plate was square (9” x 9” x9” x 9” inch).  Twleve stones were put in four rows.  This breast plate was worn over the robe.  Each stone represents twelve tribes of Israel.  Thus the high priest represented the whole Israel before God.  There were two other special stones, called “Urim and Thummim” in the pouch of breast plate.  (Ex. 28 : 15-30).  These two special stones were used as a device to determine God’s will for Israel in making decision.  While taking important decisions, the priest would cast the stones out of breast plate.  If the stone of Thummim comes out, it meant God’s permission with “Yes” on the matter; Urim comes out, it meant “No”.

Turban (Ex. 28 : 4, 37, 39 ; 29 : 6 ; 39 : 28)

                   It was made of fine linen.  The pure linen symbolizes Holiness and Justice.  There was difference between the turbans of High Priest and other priests.  The High Priest’s turban was called Mitre and priest’s turban was called bonnets.  The Priest’s head covered by turban means that the priest are under the authority of God and they must submit to God’s authority.

Plate of Gold (Ex. 28 : 36, 37)

                   This plate was also known as flower or Blossom.  It was made of pure gold.  It was tied on the front of the turban of High Priest.  On the plate, the title “Holiness to the Lord” was engraven “Holiness to the Lord” means that the High Priest is separated, sanctified and dedicated unto God and for His service.

Breeches (Ex. 28 : 42, 43)

                   It was also made of linen.  It was an undergarment, reached from the waist to the thighs, so as to cover their nakedness.

                   All priests wore breeches, turban, tunic (inner coat) and belt.  But the High Priest, in addition, wore the robe (special upper garment), breast plate, and plate of gold.  The priest must wear their dress when they serve in the tabernacle and when they come before the congregation of Israel.

Note : Now, we have studied some important aspects of the Jewish worship system from the Old Testament.

Students’ Assignment

1. Write about the Jewish feast from the book of Leviticus.

2. Write about the Aaron’s rod.

3. Draw the plan of tabernacle.

4. Explain about the altar of burnt offering.

5. Explain about the altar of incense.

Note :  Write your answers and send them to CALS.  Do not forget to write your register Number on your answer sheets.