Today, we will delve into a profound and enlightening topic: “The Ark of the New Covenant.” We will explore how the New Covenant, established through Jesus Christ, reflects and fulfills the symbolism and purpose of the Ark of the Old Covenant. Let’s open our hearts to understand God’s incredible plan for redemption and His presence with us.
1. The Ark of the Old Covenant: Symbolism and Purpose
The Ark of the Old Covenant, also known as the Ark of the Covenant, was central to Israel’s worship and relationship with God. It symbolized God’s presence, His covenant with Israel, and His holiness. The Ark contained three significant items:
a. The Tablets of the Law
The tablets of the Ten Commandments were placed inside the Ark, representing God’s moral law given to His people. This was a constant reminder of the covenant between God and Israel.
– Scripture: “And you shall put into the ark the testimony that I shall give you.” (Exodus 25:16)
b. The Manna
A jar of manna was also inside the Ark, symbolizing God’s provision and faithfulness during Israel’s journey in the wilderness.
– Scripture: “And Moses said, ‘This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Let an omer of it be kept throughout your generations, so that they may see the bread with which I fed you in the wilderness, when I brought you out of the land of Egypt.’” (Exodus 16:32)
c. Aaron’s Rod
Aaron’s rod that budded was a sign of God’s chosen priesthood and His power to bring life out of death.
– Scripture: “The next day Moses entered the tent of the testimony and saw that Aaron’s staff, which represented the tribe of Levi, had not only sprouted but had budded, blossomed and produced almonds.” (Numbers 17:8)
2. The Fulfillment in Christ: The Ark of the New Covenant
The Ark of the Old Covenant points forward to the New Covenant, established through Jesus Christ. In Him, we find the fulfillment of all that the Ark represented.
a. Jesus, the Living Word
Just as the Ark contained the Law, Jesus embodies the Word of God. He is the perfect revelation of God’s will and character.
– Scripture: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)
– Scripture: “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” (John 1:17)
b. Jesus, the Bread of Life
Jesus is the true bread from heaven, providing spiritual nourishment and eternal life.
– Scripture: “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever.” (John 6:51)
c. Jesus, the Resurrection and the Life
Aaron’s rod that budded foreshadowed Christ’s resurrection. Jesus conquered death and brings life to all who believe in Him.
– Scripture: “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.'” (John 11:25-26)
3. The New Covenant: God’s Presence with Us
The Ark of the Covenant represented God’s presence among His people. In the New Covenant, God’s presence is not confined to an Ark but dwells within us through the Holy Spirit.
a. The Indwelling Spirit
Believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, experiencing God’s presence and guidance daily.
– Scripture: “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16)
b. A New Heart and Spirit
God promised to give His people a new heart and spirit, transforming us from within to live according to His will.
– Scripture: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26)
4. Living in the Reality of the New Covenant
As beneficiaries of the New Covenant, we are called to live in the reality of this incredible relationship with God.
a. Abiding in Christ
We are called to remain in close fellowship with Jesus, drawing strength and sustenance from Him.
– Scripture: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” (John 15:4)
b. Walking in the Spirit
We must walk by the Spirit, allowing Him to guide our steps and transform our lives.
– Scripture: “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25)
c. Proclaiming the Gospel
As recipients of the New Covenant, we have the responsibility to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others.
– Scripture: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Ark of the New Covenant is Jesus Christ Himself, who perfectly fulfills all the symbolism and purpose of the Ark of the Old Covenant. Through Him, we have God’s Word, provision, and life. As we live in this New Covenant, let us abide in Christ, walk in the Spirit, and boldly proclaim the gospel to the world. May God bless us as we continue to grow in His grace and knowledge. Amen.
