Andrew A Bonar
The priest, setting the lamps in order daily, represents Christ causing His people daily to receive and give forth light and life. In the midst of a dark world, believers are set up as lights (see Phil 2:15, Mt 5:16). They should be, as John the Baptist, “burning and shining lights”. They should be representatives of Christ Himself, who shone as the light in darkness. And they must shine:
1An extract from Bonar’s fine Commentary on Leviticus.
(1.) Not by natural gifts, but by grace. There must be a supply of beaten oil, pressed out of Israel’s olive-trees – not merely talent, or natural fervour and benevolence.
(2.) Clearly. There were golden snuffers for these lamps, and the use of them was committed to the priest who went in to set things in order. Believers must have their gifts and graces stirred up, so that there be no dulness, indecision, inactivity. When, believer, you feel a little pride stealing in, or love of praise, or fondness for comforts, or earthly cares, go to the priest; let Him dress the lamp.
(3.) Constantly. Shine as before, every day in succession; never hide the light. If there is a place where it is not your duty to speak, yet there is no place where it is not your duty to think and feel for God.
(4.) Calmly. The light of these lamps did not sputter as it burned. The oil was pure. Believers must have the lamb-like spirit of Jesus, putting away all mixture of human temper, not re proving with the heat of human passion nor harshly upbraiding the obstinate sinner, not impatient or hasty or fierce, even when enormous wickedness and deceit appear. A calm light generally shines full.
(5.) In the face of the world. Cast your light fair on the world’s sins, that they may see them. Point out their ungodliness, their lawlessness, their unbelief. Reprove their acts of Sabbath profanation. Check them when they swear in your presence. Bear your testimony where the truth is denied in your presence. Never be afraid of dazzling the world with too much light, but plainly show them that they are wholly sinful, wholly ruined, wholly helpless; and speak of a present, immediate, free, full pardon in the Saviour.
(6.) So as to show the golden table and the golden altar. The light of the candlestick did so. Was this not pointing the eye to Christ, who died and who is risen? The bread on the table is Christ, who gave His life for us; the golden altar and its incense is Jesus exalted and accepted. Here is full salvation.
(7.) As if you alone were responsible for enlightening the dark world. The candlestick was the only light; so is the Church. And let every member feel responsibility. Perhaps if you do not shine, some soul shall be left for ever in darkness. If one lighthouse on the seashore were obscured, how many ships might be lost in consequence, especially if formerly that lighthouse used to direct to the haven. O then how many may perish if you backslide, and do not shine as before! This is our time for shining.