August 11

For such an High Priest became us.—Hebrews 7:26.

As Christ was typified by the common priesthood, so he was still more particularly represented by the High Priest, to the particulars of which let us now direct our attention. The garments of the high priests were of a peculiar description,—there was first of all the Ephod, a loose white linen garment, in which were set two onyx stones, whereon was engraved the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, and which was to be borne upon the shoulders of the high priest; with this garment the high priest always appeared in the sanctuary before

God. Herein is Christ's mediatorial work for his church set forth, and the entire dependance of all his people beautifully represented. He builds the temple of the Lord and he bears all its glory, — he is the sufficiency and strength of his people, — he bears them ever before God in the holiest place of all. Then the high priest had also a breast-plate; in this plate there were also set in precious stones the number of the tribes, and they were placed in a four square form, so as to represent their beauty and order, and with this too, the high priest appeared before God. In the breast-plate were also the mystical Urim and Thummim, signifying, light and perfection, by which God communicated his mind to the priests. In this how the love of Jesus is exhibited. He has his church engraven on his heart. He lived with it in his heart and died with it in his heart, and now standing before the throne of the Eternal, he has it still upon his heart. And it is only through Christ that God reveals his mind to man. He is therefore the true Urim and Thummim, the only light and perfection. For no man hath seen God at any time, but Jesus our High Priest hath declared him: so that he who hath seen the Son, hath also seen the Father, for he dwelleth in the Father, and the Father dwelleth in him.