Exodus 26:19

with forty silver bases under the twenty frames--two bases for each frame, one under each tenon.

Study Bible

with forty silver bases
The use of silver in the tabernacle construction is significant, as silver often symbolizes redemption in the Bible. In Exodus 30:11-16, silver is collected as atonement money, linking it to the concept of redemption. The forty bases suggest a foundation of redemption, supporting the structure of the tabernacle, which is a dwelling place for God's presence among His people. The number forty is often associated with periods of testing and preparation in Scripture, such as the forty years in the wilderness.

under the twenty frames
The frames, or boards, form the structure of the tabernacle, representing the stability and order of God's dwelling place. The number twenty can symbolize a complete or perfect waiting period, as seen in the twenty years Jacob waited to be freed from Laban (Genesis 31:38-41). The frames provide a sturdy framework, emphasizing the permanence and reliability of God's covenant with Israel.

two bases for each frame
The dual bases for each frame highlight the importance of balance and support in the tabernacle's construction. This duality can be seen as a reflection of the dual nature of Christ, both fully God and fully man, providing a foundation for the New Covenant. The two bases ensure stability, much like the two tablets of the Law given to Moses, which provided a moral foundation for the Israelites.

one under each tenon
The tenons are the connecting points that secure the frames to the bases, ensuring the tabernacle's stability. This connection can be seen as a type of the believer's connection to Christ, the cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20), who provides stability and unity to the body of believers. The precise construction details underscore the importance of order and intentionality in God's design, reflecting His nature as a God of order and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the Tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to construct the Tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites were journeying from Egypt to the Promised Land, during which the Tabernacle was constructed.

5. The Silver Bases
Part of the structural foundation of the Tabernacle, symbolizing stability and purity.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle highlight the importance of following God's commands precisely. As believers, we are called to obey God's Word in our lives.

Foundation of Faith
The silver bases represent a strong foundation. In our spiritual lives, Christ is our foundation, and we must build our lives upon Him.

Symbolism of Silver
Silver often symbolizes redemption and purity in Scripture. The use of silver in the Tabernacle's construction reminds us of the purity and redemption found in Christ.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within us, making our bodies His temple.

Community and Worship
The construction of the Tabernacle required the collective effort of the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of community in worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle reflect the character of God, and what does this teach us about His expectations for our lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that Christ remains the foundation of our faith, similar to the silver bases of the Tabernacle?

3. How does the symbolism of silver in the Tabernacle's construction relate to the concept of redemption in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our daily lives, as the Israelites experienced through the Tabernacle?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, work together to build a "spiritual house" that honors God, drawing from the example of the Israelites constructing the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the broader context of the Tabernacle's construction, detailing God's specific instructions to Moses.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage reflects on the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Peter 2:5
This verse speaks of believers as living stones being built into a spiritual house, drawing a parallel to the construction of the Tabernacle.

Revelation 21:3
This verse describes the ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with humanity, which the Tabernacle symbolized.