The Washing Basin
Just past the altar stood a basin of water where priests washed before continuing their service. It’s a picture of baptism, the moment you choose to leave your old life behind and start fresh with Jesus.
Frequently asked questions
Why does washing come right after the sacrifice?
Because accepting Jesus naturally leads to wanting a clean start. Baptism is what follows, not what earns the sacrifice's forgiveness.
Bible references
Titus 3:5Show verseHide verse
5not by works of righteousness which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
Read it on Bible GatewayRomans 6:4Show verseHide verse
4We were buried therefore with him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.
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World English Bible (public domain)