“And thou shalt set up the tabernacle according to the fashion thereof which was shewed thee in the mount.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and primarily focuses on the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt under the leadership of Moses. It also describes the establishment of the Mosaic covenant and the construction of the tabernacle, a portable place of worship where God’s presence would dwell among His people during their journey through the wilderness.
Verse Analysis:In Exodus 40:8, the Lord commands Moses to set up the tabernacle according to the pattern or design that He had revealed to him on Mount Sinai. The tabernacle was to be the central place of worship for the Israelites during their time in the wilderness. It consisted of the outer court, the holy place, and the most holy place (the Holy of Holies). Various sacred articles, including the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, and the altar of incense, were placed in the tabernacle.
Key Lessons:
- Obedience to God’s Design:The first and most crucial lesson from this verse is the importance of obedience to God’s specific instructions. God had given Moses detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle, and it was essential for Moses to follow them precisely. In our lives, we must also seek to follow God’s Word and His guidance without compromise or deviation.
- God’s Design for Worship:The tabernacle was not just a tent; it held deep spiritual significance. It served as a representation of God’s dwelling place among His people. It was a place where they could come to worship, offer sacrifices, and seek forgiveness for their sins. This points to the importance of having a structured and meaningful approach to worshiping God. God desires true worship from the heart and has revealed in His Word how He should be worshiped.
- Relevance to Christ and the Church:The tabernacle and its elements have symbolic meanings and find fulfillment in Christ and the New Testament Church. For example, the Ark of the Covenant symbolizes God’s presence, and Jesus, as Emmanuel (God with us), is the ultimate fulfillment of this symbol. The altar of incense represents prayer, and Christ’s role as our High Priest intercedes for us. The tabernacle system pointed forward to the redemptive work of Christ.
- God’s Revelation and Communication:The fact that God revealed the design of the tabernacle to Moses emphasizes God’s desire to communicate with His people. It also highlights the importance of spending time in God’s presence, seeking His guidance, and listening to His voice. God speaks to us through His Word, prayer, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Application:
- We should diligently study God’s Word to understand His design and purpose for our lives and worship.
- Obedience to God’s instructions is crucial; we should not compromise or alter His revealed truth.
- Just as the tabernacle was a place of encounter with God, we can draw near to Him through prayer, worship, and the reading of Scripture.
- Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the tabernacle’s symbols, and we should focus on our relationship with Him as we worship and serve God.
In conclusion, Exodus 40:8 teaches us about obedience, worship, God’s design, and His desire to communicate with His people. May we seek to apply these principles in our lives as we walk in faith and devotion to the Lord.
