Leviticus 16 is a precious chapter, whether we regard it historically in connection with Israel or in its typical character as shadowing forth the atoning work of our Lord Jesus Christ. The great theme of the chapter is Christ and His work, but Aaron’s garments claim our attention. The linen garments signify holiness and purity. It is no question here of outward display; rather, these garments set forth in figure Christ come to take up the question of sin; all in Him is in perfect moral accord with the purity and holiness of the throne of God. Although we know Him now in the garments of glory and beauty (see Ex. 28), “crowned with glory and honor,” yet this could only be as the result of what is prefigured in the holy linen garments and the work connected with them. The Holy Spirit unfolds these things for us in Hebrews 9. We see Him there wearing the holy linen garments, as the antitype of Aaron in the work of atonement (vss. 11-12).
Then in verse 24 of the same chapter we see Him as He now appears in the presence of God for us, in the robes of glory and beauty. The work of propitiation and cleansing being past, Aaron put off the holy linen garments, washed his flesh in water, and proceeded to offer the burnt offering for himself and the burnt offering for the people, significant of the divine acceptance of the work of that day. Our Lord no longer wears the linen garments which He wore, figuratively, when He took up the question of sin, once and for all. The work being done, He now appears for us in those garments of glory and beauty, as He undertakes His work of intercession for us. Everything concerning the garments of glory and beauty (Ex. 28) speaks of an accomplished redemption and a redeemed people, but also of those who need the constant intercessory work of their Great High Priest, as they walk through a defiling world.
J. McBroom (adapted)