The Mercy Seat

Having considered the “ark of the covenant,” we may now look at that which completed it as God’s throne; namely, the mercy seat (Ex. 25:17-21). Its composition differs from that of the ark, there being no wood used. It was made of “pure gold.” Again, we have before us that which is divine. God’s righteousness is what is told out in this type of His throne. Notice the contrast God makes between His own and human righteousness; the latter He terms “filthy rags,” for without faith, the good works of man have neither beauty nor merit in God’s estimation. But when He uses a symbol to express His own righteousness, He chooses that which is pure, precious and enduring.