Exodus 26:21

and forty silver bases--two bases under each frame.

Study Bible

and forty silver bases—
The use of silver in the construction of the Tabernacle is significant. Silver often symbolizes redemption in the Bible, as seen in the silver shekels used for the atonement money (Exodus 30:11-16). The forty bases suggest a foundation of redemption upon which the Tabernacle, a dwelling place for God's presence, is established. The number forty is frequently associated with periods of testing and preparation in Scripture, such as the forty years the Israelites spent in the wilderness (Numbers 14:33-34) and Jesus' forty days of fasting (Matthew 4:2).

two bases under each frame.
The structure of the Tabernacle was designed with precision, reflecting God's order and holiness. Each frame having two bases indicates stability and support, ensuring the Tabernacle's durability. This duality can symbolize the balance of justice and mercy, foundational attributes of God's character. The frames and bases together create a unified structure, much like the unity of believers in the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:16). The meticulous design points to the care and intentionality of God in His dwelling among His people, foreshadowing the incarnation of Christ, who is both fully God and fully man, the ultimate meeting place of God and humanity (John 1:14).

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 sanctuary used by the Israelites as a place of worship during their journey through the wilderness.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were on their way to the Promised Land.

4. The Wilderness
The desert area where the Israelites wandered for 40 years, during which the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

5. The Silver Bases
Part of the Tabernacle's construction, these bases provided stability and support for the frames of the sanctuary.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands. Just as the Israelites were to follow God's blueprint, we are called to live according to His Word.

God's Presence Among His People
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within believers, making our lives a living sanctuary.

Foundation of Faith
The silver bases provided stability for the Tabernacle. Similarly, our faith in Christ is the foundation that supports our spiritual lives. We must ensure that our foundation is strong and secure.

Symbolism of Silver
In the Bible, silver often symbolizes redemption. The silver bases can remind us of the redemption we have through Christ, who is the foundation of our salvation.

Unity and Structure
The interconnected frames and bases of the Tabernacle illustrate the unity and structure within the body of Christ. Each believer has a role and purpose, contributing to the overall strength and function of the church.

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 our lives are built on a strong foundation of faith, similar to the silver bases of the Tabernacle?

3. How does understanding the purpose and function of the Tabernacle enhance our appreciation for the work of Christ as described in Hebrews 9?

4. What practical steps can we take to live as a "spiritual house" as described in 1 Peter 2:5, and how does this relate to the community of believers?

5. How can the symbolism of silver as redemption influence our understanding of our identity and purpose in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of following God's precise directions.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament discusses the significance of the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the holiness and purpose of the Tabernacle.

1 Peter 2:5
Believers are described as living stones being built into a spiritual house, connecting to the idea of the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence.