Topical Bible: Breastplate: Illustrative of The: Righteous Judgment of Christ

◄ Breastplate: Illustrative of The: Righteous Judgment of Christ ►

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The breastplate, as described in the Bible, serves as a powerful symbol of protection, authority, and divine judgment. In the context of the righteous judgment of Christ, the breastplate is emblematic of His role as the ultimate judge and protector of His people.

Old Testament Context

The concept of the breastplate is first introduced in the Old Testament, specifically in the attire of the High Priest. The breastplate, known as the "breastplate of judgment," was an essential part of the High Priest's garments, as described in Exodus 28:15-30. It was intricately designed with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and adorned with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The breastplate was not only a symbol of the High Priest's role as an intercessor but also a representation of divine judgment and decision-making, as it contained the Urim and Thummim, tools used to discern God's will.

Christ as the High Priest

In the New Testament, the imagery of the High Priest is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is described as our eternal High Priest. Hebrews 4:14-15 states, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin."

As the High Priest, Christ embodies the ultimate authority in judgment. His righteousness and sinlessness qualify Him to judge the world with perfect justice. The breastplate, in this sense, symbolizes His role in executing divine judgment, ensuring that His decisions are just and true.

The Armor of God

The Apostle Paul further develops the imagery of the breastplate in his epistle to the Ephesians. In Ephesians 6:14 , Paul exhorts believers to "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place." Here, the breastplate of righteousness is part of the full armor of God, which believers are to don in their spiritual battles. This righteousness is not of their own making but is imputed through faith in Christ, who is the source of all righteousness.

Righteous Judgment of Christ

The righteous judgment of Christ is a central theme in the New Testament, where He is depicted as the one who will judge the living and the dead. In John 5:22 , Jesus declares, "Furthermore, the Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son." This passage underscores the authority given to Christ to execute judgment, a role that is both protective and discerning, much like the breastplate worn by the High Priest.

Revelation 19:11 provides a vivid depiction of Christ as the righteous judge: "Then I saw heaven standing open, and there before me was a white horse. And its rider is called Faithful and True. With righteousness He judges and wages war." This imagery reinforces the concept of Christ's righteous judgment, where He is portrayed as a warrior king, executing justice with unwavering truth and integrity.

Conclusion

The breastplate, as an illustrative symbol, encapsulates the righteous judgment of Christ. It reflects His role as the divine High Priest, the protector of His people, and the ultimate judge who administers justice with perfect righteousness. Through the imagery of the breastplate, believers are reminded of the assurance and protection found in Christ's righteous judgment.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 59:17
For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation on his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Holy War,
... of faith, the helmet, the breastplate, the two ... of sin, or righteousness, and of judgment,
while Emmanuel's ... appeared to be explanatory or illustrative in other ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm