A Shadow of Christ's Ministry
Commentator Matthew Henry explains that the rich and splendid priestly garments, including the golden chains, were 'shadows of good things to come.' The ultimate substance they point to is Christ, our great High Priest. In his redemptive work, Christ took charge of all God's people, laying them near his heart and presenting them to the Father, a reality foreshadowed by the high priest's breastplate and its fixtures.