Lesson 12 for June 11-17

This quarter’s discussions focus on biblical symbolism of a certain kind: clothing imagery. We will consider the garments that people in the Bible wore and what that clothing really meant, what truths it symbolized, what great realities it pointed to, and what lessons we can learn from it. From the fanciful adornment of Lucifer in heaven to the filthy rags of our own righteousness, from the coats of animal skins for Adam and Eve in Eden to the “garments of splendor” mentioned in Isaiah, the Bible uses clothing and clothing imagery to portray truths about sin, pride, righteousness, salvation, justification, resurrection, and eternal life in Christ.

This week’s discussion will look at the question of clothing, all in the context of Jesus. We’ll explore the woman who believed, rightly so, that all she had to do was touch His clothes, and she would be healed. Then there’s Jesus, laying aside His garment in order to wash the feet of His disciples. Next we’ll look at the high priest who, standing before the Lord, rent his own garments in an act that sealed the haughty ruler’s doom. Then there’s Jesus in the garments of mockery, put on Him by the Roman soldiers. And, finally, we’ll look at the soldiers casting lots for Christ’s garment, thus fulfilling an ancient prophecy.

Christ, as a man, wore clothing. Lack of clothing indicated a lower station, or humiliation, to which He submitted on our behalf. Although He was our Creator and King of the universe, He humbly bore the mocking and the insults of the high priest and the pagan soldiers.

For further information, comments or questions, please write to melponniah@gmail.com