2 CHRONICLES 4


7 And he made 10 candlesticks of gold according to their form, and set them in the temple, 5 on the right hand, and 5 on the left.

THE ROUTINE SERVICE OF THE TABERNACLE

Daily

---The high priest was to replenish the oil-lamps of the seven-branch candlestick, and offer incense before the vail, every morning and evening: and on the great altar, he was to offer a lamb in sacrifice every morning and evening.

These were perpetual services--things always in the life--things always before the mind. Remembering what they signify, what a lesson they convey: the combusted oil of the lamps, the radiation of the truth from the enlightened mind: the grateful odour of the fire-diffused incense, acceptable worship, thanksgiving and supplication: the offered lamb, the crucified Jesus recognized as the basis of approach.

These daily services speak of things which must enter into life every day. Some things may be occasional, as the remembrance of the Egyptian deliverance in the passover; but these are to be incessant, as the taking of daily food.

...First, the light--should the mind ever be dark?

Is it not the essential condition of even human friendship that enlightenment should be a thing of normal habit? But enlightenment is not native: darkness is. Enlightenment to be attained or retained must be kindled by external appliance, and there must be renewal. Light the lamp and leave it, and it will go out.

... it is the knowledge of God and His ways and His intentions and His will that constitutes the true light of life.

...dress the lamps daily. It is a matter of command: we must obey. It is a matter of expediency, and we ought to conform: for if the lamps are not snuffed and the oil replenished, our fight will burn dimly and be in danger of going out, as many men experience. Do not say--"We are not a priesthood yet", Ye are such in him. Ye are now a holy priesthood, as Peter declares (1 Pet. 2:5),

"to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ"

Law of Moses Ch 20