Commentary on Exodus 40:30

Exodus 40:30 states:

"And he set the laver between the tent of the congregation and the altar, and put water therein, to wash withal."

Introduction

The installation and consecration of the tabernacle is a significant event in the narrative of Exodus. This verse highlights the placement of the laver, a critical piece of the tabernacle’s furniture, designed for the priests’ ceremonial washing before ministry. A deeper understanding of this passage reveals rich theological implications regarding holiness, purification, and the requirements of serving God.

The Significance of the Laver

According to Matthew Henry, the laver symbolizes the necessity of purification in approaching God. The fact that it was placed between the tent of the congregation and the altar emphasizes that purification is essential before one can offer sacrifices.

Albert Barnes notes that the laver was made of brass and contained water for the priests to wash their hands and feet, thus ensuring that they were clean before entering God’s presence. This was a foreshadowing of the spiritual cleansing required for believers today, who must confess and repent before approaching God (1 John 1:9).

Placement of the Laver

Adam Clarke observes that the strategic placement of the laver is significant. It was positioned between the altar and the tent of meeting, highlighting the process of service. Before any sacrifice could be made at the altar, the priests were required to wash their hands and feet, which symbolizes the need for spiritual cleanliness prior to offering one’s life and works to God.

This arrangement serves as a reminder to believers that before engaging in acts of worship or service, purification is paramount. As Clarke points out, the laver serves as a stark reminder of the necessity of holiness, implying that God desires sanctification not just in act but in heart and soul.

Theological Implications

In this passage, we see a profound reflection of God’s holiness and the seriousness with which He regards the act of worship. In the words of Matthew Henry, the requirement of washing signifies that worship must be sincere and pure, which leads us to the understanding that our approach to God must be steeped in reverence and purity.

Moreover, this act of washing can be likened to the New Testament principles of baptism and the washing of regeneration, as Paul outlines in Titus 3:5. Here, the laver serves as a precursor to the ultimate source of cleansing found in Christ, who purifies believers from all unrighteousness.

Application for Today's Believers

• Purity in Worship: Just as the priests were required to wash in the laver, modern believers are called to examine their hearts and lives before engaging in worship and ministry.
• Symbol of Spiritual Cleansing: The laver points to the greater reality of spiritual cleansing that takes place through Jesus Christ. This act of washing is one of a believer's continual need for grace and renewal.
• Preparation for Service: Before coming to God in service, parables of spiritual hygiene are necessary; believers must take the time to confess and repent, ensuring they have clean hands and pure hearts.

Conclusion

Exodus 40:30 encapsulates not merely a physical instruction for the priests in the Old Covenant but a timeless lesson on the importance of holiness and preparation in the life of a believer. Combining the insights from Henry, Barnes, and Clarke invites us to reflect deeply on the necessity of purification in worship. This emphasis on cleanliness highlights both God's character and the conviction that prepares us to enter His presence with reverence. Furthermore, the laver stands as a type of Christ—a necessary cleansing agent for those who seek to serve the Almighty. As we ponder these truths, may we all strive to maintain a life that is continually cleansed and sanctified for His service.