March 29: FROM SYMBOLS TO REALITY (part 3)

Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail. Revelation 11:19

The heavenly vision given to John in the last book of the Bible reveals the Savior’s ongoing work in the divine Plan of Salvation. This 66th book is a book of consummation that perfectly complements Genesis, the book of beginnings. Today’s opening verse reminds us of the original ark of [God’s] covenant, a miniature of which was the sole furnishing in the Most Holy Place of the earthly tabernacle, a copy of the true (Hebrews 9:23-24). Contained therein were the two tables of stone engraved with God’s eternal, unchanging law. Rather than assigning Moses to write the Ten Commandments, the LORD chose to write them in stone with His own finger after He had spoken them to the saved multitude with His own voice (see Exodus 20:1-18;31:18). These were given as a reminder of what God’s people had understood early on. If that were not so, Joseph would not have known that adultery was a sin against God (see Genesis 39:9).

God’s law, His will, His government, and His character are synonymous. His goal for each of us is to win our genuine loyalty and love. He has revealed this desire by expressing His divine ability – because of His love – to inscribe His law directly upon our hearts. In that way, this law becomes the will and desire of every citizen who reverently submits to the government of God. But, just as Jesus could do no mighty works in His hometown area (Mark 6:5-6), He will not perform the miracle of engraving upon unbelieving hearts, for it is against His nature to force His will upon anyone.

The ark of the covenant containing God’s law is covered by the mercy seat (Numbers 7:89). An understanding of that law is a thorough and complete way to enlighten our spiritual eyes regarding our sin (see Romans 7:7). All we like sheep have gone astray (Isaiah 53:6), but the mercy of our loving God overflows onto every person who responds to His invitation to return to Him in repentance. Being seated upon mercy, He – by grace – impresses upon willing minds and hearts transformational truths for the remolding of character into His intended image. Such a one will be enabled to look upon Him with indescribable joy when He comes. This is the reality to come for all whose citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20).

To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation. And it will be said in that day: “Behold, this is our God; We have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the LORD; We have waited for Him; We will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.” Hebrews 9:28; Isaiah 25:9

Confirmation and contrast: Isaiah 2:10; Jeremiah 31:33; Joel 1:15; Matthew 5:8; 7:14,21; 19:17; John 7:17; 15:5; Romans 6:17-18; 7:12; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 5:9; 10:16; James 4:17; Revelation 6:15-17