“And he made the middle bar to shoot through the boards from the one end to the other.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and is a continuation of the narrative of God’s people, the Israelites, after they have been enslaved in Egypt. In this specific passage, we find the detailed account of the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that the Israelites built according to God’s instructions while they journeyed through the wilderness. The Tabernacle was the place where God’s presence would dwell among the people, and it was a central aspect of their worship and obedience to God.
Understanding Exodus 36:33:In this verse, we see a specific aspect of the construction of the Tabernacle being described. The “he” referred to in this verse is Bezalel, who was a skilled craftsman chosen by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:30-35). The “middle bar” is a part of the framework that holds the wooden boards of the Tabernacle’s walls together. This bar was positioned horizontally and went through the boards from one end of the Tabernacle to the other.
This verse may seem like a technical detail of the Tabernacle’s construction, but it carries some significant spiritual lessons and insights for us today:
Unity and Stability:The “middle bar” was crucial in providing stability and structural integrity to the Tabernacle. It held the boards together, preventing them from shifting or collapsing. As a symbol, it reminds us of the importance of unity and togetherness within the community of believers. Together, the individual boards formed a strong and united structure, reflecting how the body of Christ (the Church) is strengthened when believers come together in unity.
Christ as the Center:The Tabernacle was a foreshadowing of the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ. The “middle bar” that ran through the center of the Tabernacle reminds us of the central role of Jesus Christ in our lives and in the Church. He is the foundation and unifying force that holds all believers together (Colossians 1:17-18).
Spiritual Application:We can apply the concept of the “middle bar” to our individual lives as well. When we allow Christ to be the center of our lives, holding everything together, we experience stability and strength. Through faith in Him, we are united with other believers, forming a spiritual community that supports and encourages one another.
Attention to Detail:God’s instructions to construct the Tabernacle included precise details for every element, including the “middle bar.” This emphasizes the importance of following God’s instructions and paying attention to the details in our spiritual lives. Obedience to God’s Word and His guidance is crucial for our walk with Him.
In summary, Exodus 36:33 reveals a small but significant detail in the construction of the Tabernacle, which points to larger spiritual truths. It emphasizes unity, stability, Christ as the center, and the importance of following God’s instructions in our lives. As we study such passages in the Bible, we gain a deeper understanding of God’s character and His plan for our lives.
