O to be filled “with the Spirit,” “with the fruits of righteousness…by Jesus Christ,” and “with all the fullness of God”!
As noted earlier, the laver in the tabernacle was replaced by a bronze Sea “for the priests to wash in” (2 Chron 4:6). Was there enough water for all the priests? It could contain over 22,000 gallons! Holding up the Sea were “twelve oxen” (v 4) who looked out at the four quadrants, symbolizing that all service for God must be done by those who are clean. “Be clean, you who bear the vessels of the Lord” (Isa 52:11). However, the priests also had available ten portable lavers and “such things as they offered for the burnt offering they would wash in them” (2 Chron 4:6). The number 10 in the Bible is often used to illustrate God’s full provision calling us to responsible action. Our ten fingers and toes suggest that God gives us the resources, but holds us responsible for both our work and our walk. Ten times at creation “God said,” providing the sphere for human service. And ten times at Sinai God said, providing the standard for human behavior. The ten plagues in Egypt revealed to the world the responsibility of all to submit to God’s will. So it is with priestly privileges. In the ten lavers, we see His full provision so we can sacrifice in our service. There were also “ten lampstands of gold…in the temple, five on the right side and five on the left” (v 7). This is “the path of the just…as the shining light” (Prov 4:18, KJV), showing His full provision for our living in the light. As well, there were “ten tables…placed…in the temple, five on the right side and five on the left” (2 Chron 4:8), “on which was the showbread” (v 19). Here we see God’s complete provision for fullness in our fellowship. But in each case, we’re responsible—and highly privileged—to offer sacrifices to Him, to walk in His light, and to linger at His table.