The ephod was the main outer garment of what the priest wore. It was like an apron that covered the priest’s shoulders and the main part of his front and back. The gold, blue, purple and scarlet yarn (v6) would speak of Jesus’ kingship, divinity, royalty and sacrifice. There would be a lot more to Jesus than what would first meet the eye.

The shoulder pieces would have two onyx stones which would have the names of the 12 tribes of Israel engraved on them (v7-11). The purpose of this was the high priest to carry them into God’s presence for them to be remembered in mercy (v12).

The picture here is of Jesus carrying the names of God’s people into God’s presence to intercede for them. This thought of Jesus interceding for you Christian should be a great encouragement for you (see Romans 8 v34).

The shoulders are a place of strength and the names of God’s people being placed there speak of great security. The believer is secure in Christ not because of the strength of their faith but because of the strength of the Christ who keeps them.