Exodus 25:21

Set the mercy seat atop the ark, and put the Testimony that I will give you into the ark.

Study Bible

Set the mercy seat
The "mercy seat" is translated from the Hebrew word "kapporet," which refers to the cover of the Ark of the Covenant. This was not merely a lid but a significant symbol of God's presence and His throne of grace. In the context of the tabernacle, the mercy seat was where God would meet with Moses and communicate His will to the Israelites (Exodus 25:22). Theologically, it represents the place of atonement, where the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrifice on the Day of Atonement, symbolizing the covering of sins. This foreshadows the ultimate atonement through Jesus Christ, who is our mercy seat, providing reconciliation with God.

atop the ark
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, symbolizing the divine presence and covenant between God and Israel. Placing the mercy seat "atop the ark" signifies the covering of the law within the ark, highlighting the theme of mercy triumphing over judgment. The ark itself was a tangible representation of God's covenant and His faithfulness to His promises. It was central to Israel's worship and journey, reminding them of God's holiness and their need for atonement.

and put the Testimony
The "Testimony" refers to the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments, which were given to Moses on Mount Sinai. These commandments were the core of the covenant between God and Israel, serving as a divine standard for righteous living. By placing the Testimony inside the ark, it signified the centrality of God's law in the life of His people. It was a constant reminder of their covenant obligations and God's righteous requirements.

that I will give you
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the Testimony. It was not a human invention but a direct revelation from God to Moses. This underscores the authority and sacredness of the commandments. The giving of the law was an act of grace, providing guidance and a framework for the Israelites to live in a way that was pleasing to God. It also points to the future giving of the Holy Spirit, who writes God's law on the hearts of believers, enabling them to live in obedience.

into the ark
Placing the Testimony "into the ark" signifies the protection and preservation of God's word. The ark served as a sacred repository, safeguarding the divine law amidst the journey and challenges of the wilderness. This act symbolizes the importance of treasuring God's word in our hearts, as the psalmist declares, "I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You" (Psalm 119:11). It also reflects the enduring nature of God's word, which remains unchanging and authoritative throughout generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to receive the Law and instructions for the Tabernacle.

2. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the Testimony (the tablets of the Law) and represented God's covenant with Israel.

3. The Mercy Seat
The cover of the Ark, symbolizing God's throne and His presence among His people.

4. The Testimony
The tablets of the Law given to Moses, representing God's covenant and commandments.

5. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

The Centrality of God's Word
The placement of the Testimony inside the Ark underscores the importance of God's Word as the foundation of our faith and life.

God's Presence and Mercy
The Mercy Seat represents God's throne of grace, reminding us that His presence is both holy and merciful.

Atonement and Reconciliation
The Mercy Seat foreshadows Christ's atoning work, inviting us to seek reconciliation with God through Jesus.

Covenant Relationship
The Ark and its contents symbolize the covenant relationship between God and His people, calling us to live in obedience and faithfulness.

Worship and Reverence
The detailed instructions for the Ark and Mercy Seat teach us the importance of approaching God with reverence and worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the Testimony inside the Ark reflect the importance of God's Word in your daily life?

2. In what ways does the Mercy Seat symbolize both God's holiness and His mercy? How can this understanding impact your relationship with God?

3. How does the concept of atonement in the Old Testament connect to the New Testament understanding of Christ's sacrifice?

4. What does the covenant relationship between God and Israel teach us about our own relationship with God today?

5. How can the reverence and worship demonstrated in the construction of the Tabernacle influence your approach to worship and prayer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9:4-5
This passage describes the contents of the Ark and the significance of the Mercy Seat, connecting the Old Testament practices to the New Testament understanding of Christ's atonement.

Psalm 80:1
Refers to God as the one who dwells between the cherubim, highlighting the Mercy Seat as a symbol of God's presence.

Romans 3:25
Discusses Jesus as the propitiation for our sins, drawing a parallel to the Mercy Seat as a place of atonement.

1 Kings 8:9
Notes that the Ark contained only the tablets of the Law, emphasizing the centrality of God's Word in the covenant relationship.

Leviticus 16:14-15
Describes the Day of Atonement rituals, where the high priest would sprinkle blood on the Mercy Seat, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate sacrifice.