“And it came to pass in the first month in the second year, on the first day of the month, that the tabernacle was reared up.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and follows the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. Exodus 40 is the concluding chapter of the book and describes the construction and dedication of the tabernacle-the portable sanctuary where the Israelites would worship and offer sacrifices to God during their journey through the wilderness.
Timing of the Tabernacle’s Erection:Exodus 40:17 starts by stating that the tabernacle was set up on the first day of the first month of the second year after the Israelites’ departure from Egypt. This is a significant event because it marked the completion of the construction process and set the stage for the worship and sacrificial system to be established among the Israelites.
Symbolism of the Tabernacle:The tabernacle held great symbolism and foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ. It consisted of three main sections: the outer court, the Holy Place, and the Holy of Holies. The tabernacle was a physical representation of God’s presence among His people and served as a place of meeting between God and humanity.
God’s Dwelling Place:The completion of the tabernacle signified that God’s dwelling place was now established among the Israelites. This was a powerful reminder that God was intimately involved in the lives of His people and that they were to worship and follow Him faithfully.
Preparation and Obedience:The process of setting up the tabernacle would have required meticulous attention to detail and obedience to God’s instructions. Throughout the book of Exodus, we see how God gave specific instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the tabernacle and the priestly garments. The fact that the tabernacle was set up as commanded by God demonstrates the obedience of Moses and the Israelites.
Application:
- God’s Presence Among Us:The establishment of the tabernacle highlights the significance of God’s presence in the lives of His people. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul speaks of believers’ bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). Just as the tabernacle was a dwelling place for God, our lives are meant to be a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. This should encourage us to live holy and obedient lives, knowing that God is with us at all times.
- Following God’s Instructions:The construction of the tabernacle required strict adherence to God’s commands. In our lives, too, obedience to God’s Word is vital. When we faithfully follow God’s instructions, we position ourselves to experience His blessings and be in alignment with His divine purpose for our lives.
- Worship and Sacrifice:The tabernacle was a place of worship and sacrifice. In the New Testament, we learn that believers are called to offer themselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1). Our worship should be a lifestyle of surrender and service to God, recognizing that Jesus Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross enables us to approach God with confidence.
- Timing and Patience:The tabernacle was erected in the second year after the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. This reminds us that God’s plans often unfold in His perfect timing. Sometimes, we may feel eager for God to move in our lives or fulfill promises, but patience and trust in God’s timing are essential.
In conclusion, Exodus 40:17 marks a significant moment in the biblical narrative, where the tabernacle, a symbol of God’s presence among the Israelites, is completed and set up according to God’s instructions. The lessons we can draw from this event are timeless and can inspire us to live in obedience to God, embracing His presence in our lives, and worshiping Him with sincere hearts.
