Exodus 40:4

And thou shalt bring in the table, and set in order the things that are to be set in order upon it; and thou shalt bring in the candlestick, and light the lamps thereof.

Exodus 40:4 (KJV)

Context

Exodus 40 records the final instructions God gave to Moses for setting up the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where Israel would worship during the wilderness journey. The previous chapters describe the detailed construction of the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. This verse commands Moses to bring two specific pieces of furniture into the Holy Place: the table and the candlestick. The Tabernacle was the place where God would dwell among His people, and every element was to be prepared according to His will.

Meaning

The “table” is the Table of Showbread, also called the Table of the Presence. It was made of acacia wood overlaid with gold and stood on the north side of the Holy Place. The command to “set in order the things that are to be set in order upon it” refers to arranging the dishes, spoons, covers, and bowls, as well as placing the twelve loaves of bread in two rows upon the table. These loaves represented the twelve tribes of Israel and were replaced every Sabbath, with the old loaves eaten by the priests.

The “candlestick” is the golden lampstand, or menorah, made of pure gold with seven branches and lamps. It stood on the south side of the Holy Place, opposite the table. The command to “light the lamps thereof” meant the priests were to keep the lamps burning continuously, providing light within the Holy Place. This careful placement followed God’s precise design, as seen in Exodus 26:35, which specifies the table on the north side and the lampstand on the south side.

Biblical connections

The Table of Showbread and the Lampstand were essential to daily ministry in the Tabernacle. The bread symbolized God’s provision and continual fellowship with His people, while the lampstand provided light, symbolizing God’s guidance and presence. The act of lighting the lamps was a regular duty, ensuring the Holy Place was never in darkness. In the New Testament, Jesus calls Himself the “Bread of Life” (John 6:35), showing that He is the ultimate provision for spiritual nourishment. Also, believers are called “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), reminding us of our responsibility to serve God faithfully.

Application

This verse emphasizes the importance of order and obedience in worship. Moses was to bring in the furniture and set it in its proper place, arranging everything exactly as God commanded. This careful attention to detail reflects the holiness of God and the reverence due to Him. As we approach God, we should do so with respect and humility, setting our hearts and lives in order before Him.

The perpetual burning of the lamps reminds us of God’s enduring presence and guidance. We are called to be the light of the world, reflecting God’s love and truth through our actions. The twelve loaves remind us of God’s provision and sustenance for His people. We should gratefully partake of the spiritual nourishment found in Christ, the Bread of Life.

As part of the royal priesthood, we are to maintain our relationship with God and serve Him faithfully. This includes regular prayer, reading His Word, and ministering to others in His name. The practical aspects of worship—bringing what God has provided, arranging it according to His command, and ensuring the light is maintained—teach us to be diligent and faithful in our daily walk with God.