THE TABERNACLE: THE BRAZEN LAVER

Read: Exodus 30:17-21; 38:8.  The size and shape of the laver are not recorded, except that it was like a large bowl supported by a foot (bass).  The water in the Laver was obtained from the smitten rock.  Exodus 17:6; John 19:34.

1. THE MATERIAL OF THE LAVER

BRASS: Exodus 38:18 As the  brazen altar (brass-judgment) show that sin in the sinner is judged, as the brazen laver show that sin in the believer also is judged.  I Corinthians 11:31-32 “if we should judge ourselves I Corinthians 5: 3-5.  “I have judged already. ”  II Corinthians 5:10 “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.”

MIRRORS: Exodus 38:8 The brass for the Laver was obtained from the polished brass plates which were used as mirrors by the women.  A mirror typifies God’s Word.  James 1:22-25 “a hearer of the word…like…beholding.”  Hebrews 4:12-13 “word of God is…a discerner of…heart.”  John 12:48 “word…shall judge him.” (brass mirror).

2. THE PURPOSE OF THE LAVER

Exodus 30:18 “to wash.”  Two truths are typified, namely: COMPLETE WASHING: REGENERATION.  Exodus 29:4 “Aaron and his sons thou shall…wash…”  With consecrated to the priethood, Aaron and his sons were bathed fully.  This ceremony was not repeated.  Titus 3:5 “the washing (laver) of regeneration.”  I Peter 1:23 “born again…by the word.”  (water in laver).  John 5:5,7 “born of water (word)..ye must be born again.”

CONSTANT CLEANING: SANCTIFICATION  Once fully bathed, the priests needed only wash their hands and feet each time they entered the tabernacle (for worship) or offering sacrifices (their service).  Exodus 30:19-20.  John 13:10 “he that is washed (regenerated) needeth not save to wash his feet (daily cleansing),, is clean”.

3. THE POSITION OF THE LAVER

Exodus 30:18 “between the tabernacle…and the altar.”  The laver was in the court, between the brazen altar and the door of the tent.  Although our sin is paid for (altar), there must be cleansing from all defilement before you can enter God’s presence for worship or service.  Paslm 24:3-4.  John 13:8 “if I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me”.  Psalm 26:6 I will wash…so will I compass  thine altar” Exodus 30:20-21 “that they die not” to neglect meant death.  I Corinthians 11:30 “for this cause…some sleep (are dead).