The brazen serpent symbolizes Christ's saving power, as seen in John 3:14-15, illustrating the new birth through faith in Him.
The brazen serpent, crafted by Moses at God's command, served as a powerful symbol of salvation for the Israelites who were bitten by serpents in the wilderness. In John 3:14-15, Jesus refers to this event, explaining that like Moses lifted the serpent, He must also be lifted up, so that all who believe in Him may have eternal life. This signifies the necessity of looking to Christ in faith for healing from sin and spiritual death. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the bronze serpent, we receive spiritual life through faith in Jesus Christ, who bore our sins and provides the only remedy for our spiritual condition.
Scripture References:
John 3:14-15, Numbers 21:8-9
Commentary