The Ark of Covenant is a crucial part of the history of the people of Israel. It is mentioned several times throughout the Old Testament.
Many fail to realize how it foreshadows many of the blessings that Jesus would bring to His people.
What was the Ark of the Covenant?
- It was a sacred item in Israel (Exodus 25). God designed it.
- The Ark was about 3 ½ feet long, 2 ½ feet wide, and 2 ½ feet tall.
- It was part of the furnishings of the tabernacle (made of the acacia wood and completely covered in gold).
- Above the Ark were two cherubim and covering called the “mercy seat.”
- Its contents were of enormous importance (Hebrews 9:1-5). The Ark contained manna, Aaron’s rod that budded, and a copy of the Ten Commandments.
- It was to be transported in a precise way (Numbers 4:15).
- It was once stolen (and later returned) by the Philistines (1 Samuel 4).
- It served as a reminder of God’s blessings and a symbol of God’s presence.
- After the Babylonians captivity, the Ark of the Covenant was lost and never found.
Christians have something better than the Ark of the Covenant.
- The manna in the ark reminded Israel of God’s past provision and blessings. But Jesus is the bread of life (John 6:30-35, 47-51). When we eat of Jesus will live forever!
- Aaron’s rod that budded reminded Israel of God’s choices for their leaders (Moses and Aaron). But Jesus is the ultimate leader of God’s people (Hebrews 4:15-16; John 14:1-6).
- The tablets of the stone (the Ten Commandments) reminded Israel of God’s law, holiness, and how obeying God leads to blessings. But Jesus was the living embodiment of God’s law (John 1:1-3, 14). He is the ultimate lawgiver (John 12:48).
Conclusion:
Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of everything found in the Ark of the Covenant. Have you given your life to Him?
