1 Chronicles 21:29

For the tabernacle of the LORD that Moses had made in the wilderness and the altar of burnt offering were presently at the high place in Gibeon,

Study Bible

For the tabernacle of the LORD
The tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was a portable earthly dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was constructed under the guidance of Moses as described in Exodus 25-31. The tabernacle served as the central place of worship and sacrifice for the Israelites during their wilderness journey and until the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. It symbolized God's presence and covenant with His people.

that Moses had made in the wilderness
Moses, under divine instruction, led the construction of the tabernacle during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. This period was marked by God's direct guidance and provision, as well as the establishment of the Law. The wilderness experience was a formative time for Israel, teaching reliance on God and obedience to His commands.

and the altar of burnt offering
The altar of burnt offering was a key component of the tabernacle, used for sacrifices that atoned for sin and expressed devotion to God. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, as described in Exodus 27:1-8. The sacrifices offered on this altar foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself for the sins of humanity.

were presently at the high place in Gibeon
Gibeon was a significant city located northwest of Jerusalem. After the conquest of Canaan, the tabernacle and the altar were moved to Gibeon, which became a central place of worship during the reigns of David and Solomon. High places were often associated with worship in ancient Israel, though they later became sites of idolatry. The presence of the tabernacle in Gibeon highlights the transitional period before the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem, which would become the permanent dwelling place for the Ark of the Covenant and the center of Israelite worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Tabernacle of the LORD
Originally constructed by Moses in the wilderness, this was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, containing the Ark of the Covenant.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader who led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness, receiving the Law from God and overseeing the construction of the Tabernacle.

3. The Altar of Burnt Offering
A significant part of the Tabernacle where sacrifices were made to God, symbolizing atonement and worship.

4. The High Place at Gibeon
A significant worship site during this period, where the Tabernacle and the altar were located before the construction of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem.

5. David
The King of Israel who sought to build a permanent temple for God, but was instructed that his son Solomon would complete this task.

Teaching Points

The Continuity of Worship
The presence of the Tabernacle at Gibeon underscores the continuity of worship practices from the wilderness to the establishment of the monarchy. It reminds us of the importance of maintaining consistent worship in our lives, regardless of changing circumstances.

The Significance of Sacred Spaces
The high place at Gibeon served as a central location for worship before the Temple was built. This teaches us about the importance of setting aside sacred spaces in our lives for communion with God, whether physical locations or dedicated times for prayer and reflection.

God's Presence in Transition
The transition from the Tabernacle to the Temple illustrates God's presence with His people through different phases of their journey. We can trust that God remains with us through the transitions and changes in our own lives.

Obedience and Worship
The use of the altar for burnt offerings at Gibeon highlights the role of obedience in worship. True worship involves a heart of obedience and submission to God's will, as demonstrated through the sacrificial system.

Preparation for Greater Things
David's desire to build a temple, though not fulfilled in his lifetime, set the stage for Solomon's eventual construction of the Temple. This teaches us about the importance of preparing and laying groundwork for future generations in our spiritual and personal endeavors.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the location of the Tabernacle at Gibeon reflect the Israelites' journey and relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we create "sacred spaces" in our daily lives to foster a deeper connection with God?

3. How does the continuity of worship practices from the Tabernacle to the Temple inform our understanding of worship today?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's preparation for the Temple that can be applied to our own spiritual preparations and goals?

5. How does the concept of obedience in worship, as seen in the use of the altar for burnt offerings, challenge or affirm your current approach to worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
Describes the construction and dedication of the Tabernacle by Moses, providing context for its significance in Israelite worship.

1 Kings 3
Details Solomon's worship at Gibeon, where he offered sacrifices and received wisdom from God, highlighting the continued importance of this site.

2 Chronicles 1
Reiterates the significance of Gibeon as a worship site during Solomon's reign, emphasizing the continuity of worship practices.