1 Peter 1:9…But ye are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that ye may declare the virtues of the one who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

     In order to understand Peter’s reference to the priesthood, we must look at its beginning and purpose. Every detail is perfect in type and displays God’s marvelous grace and power in salvation.

     Firstly, Aaron and his sons were chosen by God Himself, they did not volunteer; Exodus 28:1. Secondly, the ministry was unto God and not for the glory of man; Exodus 28:1. Moses, a type of Christ, was the one who provided holy garments for glory and beauty unto God’s chosen; Exodus 28:2. In Exodus 29:4-9, the type is most beautiful. Aaron and his sons are brought to the door of the tabernacle. This speaks in type of the drawing power of the Holy Spirit bringing the chosen ones to the door, representing Christ. The door was the entry way to God. At the door, God’s chosen were then washed by the one who was the type of Christ, they did not wash themselves. They were then clothed, robed, girded, crowned, and anointed by the one who was the deliverer of God’s people from bondage. This was a one time, lasting, never to be repeated event that could never be undone because it was by God’s decree.

     In John 13, Jesus tells Peter that unless he is washed by Him, he has no part with Him. He also tells him that those who are washed by Him; (bathed), are wholly clean and need no further bathing except for their feet. Here again, the beauty of the type can be found in the priesthood of the Old Testament. Exodus 30:17-21, reveals that a wash basin of brass was constructed and filled with water. Before the priests could minister unto God, they must wash their hands and feet before approaching in worship or service, that they die not. The basin of brass was made of the melted down looking glasses that the women had brought from Egypt; Exodus 38:8. The intense fire required to melt the polished brass looking glasses from Egypt speaks of God’s judgment against sin and unholy living. In order for the priests to minister, there could be no reflection of the bondage and defilements of their unredeemed past life, but only clean hands and feet which represented those who were chosen and redeemed by God.

     The provision of the “washing of water by the word” of Ephesians 5, also provides for the cleansing from everyday defilements of dirty hands and feet acquired by our contact of this world in everyday life. 1 John 1:9…If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

     Child of God, are you availing yourself to the “Word become flesh” in confession of sin? Are you being washed continually from the defilements of this world or is there some reflection of past life and bondage of sin that prevents your pure service and ministry to God?

Tony Register, Pastor

Cornerstone of Faith

P.O. Box 155 • Cordele, Ga. 31010