NT Text: Ephesians 2:13-18
OT Source: Numbers 15:14
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Allusion
Connection Method(s): Typology
Subject: Gentiles brought near through Christ's blood fulfill the stranger's access to pleasing-aroma worship
Explanation: Paul's declaration that Gentiles who were "far off" have been "brought near by the blood of Christ" alludes to the Mosaic provision allowing the stranger (גֵּר) dwelling among Israel to offer fire offerings as רֵיחַ נִיחֹחַ (pleasing aroma) to YHWH. Numbers 15:14 established that the sojourner could participate in the same worship as native-born Israelites, using identical sacrificial procedures. Christ's cross demolishes the dividing wall, granting Gentiles not merely proximity but full access to God through His fragrant sacrifice. What was provisional permission in the Mosaic economy becomes permanent inclusion through Christ's blood, which produces the ultimate pleasing aroma.
Christological Connection: Christ's propitiatory death grants Gentiles full covenant membership and worship access that the Mosaic stranger-provisions foreshadowed.
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