Exodus 30:11-21

the Atonement Money and the Laver

Exodus 30:11

The atonement money was paid by all alike, to remind them that they were a redeemed race, and that so far as their value was concerned, neither rank, nor age, nor money made any difference. See Romans 3:22; Romans 10:12. The rich might not give more, lest he be made proud; the poor must not give less, so that he might be leveled up by the common mercy of God.

The laver reminds us of our need of daily washing. See John 13:1. It is very necessary to our peace and strength to repair constantly to Christ with confession and prayer. See 1 John 1:6. The laver was made out of the looking-glasses of the women. See Exodus 38:8. It was a good use for them, and was altogether appropriate, for the Word of God is compared to a mirror for its revealing qualities, and to water for cleansing. See James 1:23; Ephesians 5:26.