Psalm 78 (77):5Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The Tabernacle, constructed with divine purpose and rich in significance, is referred to as the Tabernacle of the Testimony, where a veil concealed the Ark of the Law, much like the veil upon the countenance of the Servant of the Law, due to the parables and stipulations of that era. The truths preached and enacted were obscured in metaphor and not openly revealed. Yet, the Apostle asserts that when one turns to Christ, this veil will be lifted (2 Cor. 3:16). All of God’s promises find their affirmation in Him, indeed, amen (2 Cor. 1:20). Therefore, whoever adheres to Christ possesses all good things that remain hidden even within the law’s letters. Conversely, those who are alien to Christ neither understand nor own these truths. He instituted the law in Israel and emphasizes its significance repetitively. The raising of a testimony aligns with the establishment of the law, both of which are found in Jacob, synonymous with Israel. Just as these two names refer to one individual, so too do the law and the testimony represent two facets of the same reality. Some may ask if there is a distinction between "rose up" and "sat down"; indeed, the difference mirrors that between Jacob and Israel—not due to their being distinct individuals, but because these names were given to one person for various reasons: Jacob for his initial struggle and grasping at birth (Gen 25:26), and Israel due to a divine encounter (Gen 32:28). Thus, to be raised up and to be placed down are not identical concepts. It seems the phrase "He raised up the testimony" indicates that through it, something is elevated. Without the Law, as the Apostle notes, sin remains dead. I once existed briefly without the Law, but upon the arrival of the commandment, sin revived (Rom. 7:8-9). Behold, constructed by the testimony—being the Law—this reveals the previously concealed reality, as the Apostle further explains: sin, to ensure that sin is exposed, through the good has produced death in me (Rom. 7:13). Yet, He established the law, perceived as a burden for wrongdoers; thus, it states that the law is not laid upon the just (1 Tim. 1:9). The law serves as a testimony in its ability to attest to truths, whereas it functions prescriptively. While these roles are essentially intertwined, Christ serves as a rock—becoming the cornerstone to believers, yet a stumbling block and a source of condemnation to non-believers. Therefore, the testimony of the law stands as a judgment for those who misuse it (1 Tim. 1:8). For the unworthy, it exposes their guilt, while for those who rightly apply it, it directs sinners toward the refuge of salvation.

Isychius and Athanasius offer similar insights, noting that the witness was indeed the tabernacle, which contained the law, the cherubim, the purification rites, the lampstand, and the showbread offered there. Athanasius further emphasizes that the law was given to their forebears, leading them to understanding through the law that would ultimately reach the generation of their Redeemer. However, since they transgressed this witness and the law, He established a new witness for Himself, the body, which serves as the temple of God, the Word residing within it. For He declared, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ Eusebius echoes this sentiment, stating that what I commanded our forefathers, I shall convey to my children. God instituted this law for the Jews: that what He instructed their ancestors to observe, they should likewise communicate and pass on to their offspring.

Consequently, the Jewish people received the law for our benefit, as we adhere to it in the spirit and purpose envisioned by the Lawgiver. This is further underscored by the following exhortation: ‘let the generation of another know, the sons that have a birth, and shall rise up, and shall tell these things to their sons.'

Thus, it is evident that this decree was not meant for a singular time period; instead, the ancestors were to pass it down to their descendants as a treasured inheritance, ensuring its preservation throughout the ages. The term "erect" is used here in place of "put," with the word "testimony" serving a similar purpose as "law," as it conveys to humanity the will of God and what constitutes His displeasure, as elaborated in Psalm 18.

While the insights of this psalm were once pertinent to the Jewish people, they now chiefly apply to the disciples of Christ, for the old law serves as a precursor to the new covenant. The Savior calls upon His followers to be vigilant and attentive, warning them not to face the same consequences as the ancient Israelites who failed to heed God's commands. He urges a deep examination of the Gospel's teachings and a heartfelt engagement with prophecy.

Although the Israelites were formidable, they ultimately fell during the tumult of Christ's Passion due to their disbelief. Notably, the tribe of Ephraim was particularly disloyal to God, having succumbed to the idolatry of the golden calf and led the other nine tribes into that sin. As a consequence of this betrayal, God stripped them of their courage; despite their prowess in archery, they became fearful and retreated on the day of battle, leading to their captivity and dispersion among the nations. Nevertheless, God showed compassion to the Jews, even though He recognized their complete surrender to worldly wisdom and their refusal to repent. In His abundant mercy, He chose not to annihilate the entire Jewish nation in the wilderness, but instead extended His grace to them. Humanity, reflecting the human condition, is marked by passions and corruption. Once the Spirit has departed from man, it will not return until the second coming.