Exodus 26:30

So you are to set up the tabernacle according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.

Study Bible

So you are to set up the tabernacle
The tabernacle was a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the desert. It served as the dwelling place of God among His people. The construction of the tabernacle was a significant event, as it symbolized God's presence and His covenant with Israel. The tabernacle's design and function foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who would dwell among humanity as the ultimate tabernacle (John 1:14). The tabernacle's structure, with its outer court, Holy Place, and Most Holy Place, reflects the separation between God and man due to sin, a separation ultimately bridged by Christ.

according to the pattern
The pattern for the tabernacle was divinely given, emphasizing that worship and approach to God must be on His terms, not human invention. This pattern included detailed instructions for the materials, dimensions, and furnishings, underscoring the importance of obedience and reverence in worship. The specificity of the pattern highlights God's holiness and the need for purity and order in His presence. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

shown you on the mountain
The mountain refers to Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Law and the instructions for the tabernacle. This location is significant as it was a place of divine revelation and covenant-making. The mountain represents a meeting point between God and man, a theme that recurs throughout Scripture. The giving of the tabernacle's pattern on the mountain signifies that it was not a human creation but a divine ordinance. This mirrors the transfiguration of Jesus on a mountain (Matthew 17:1-8), where His divine nature was revealed, further connecting the tabernacle to Christ as the ultimate revelation of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to receive the Law on Mount Sinai.

2. Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place for the divine presence, designed by God and constructed by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

3. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments and the detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle.

4. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and journeyed through the wilderness to the Promised Land.

5. God's Presence
The divine presence that would dwell among the Israelites in the Tabernacle, signifying God's covenant and guidance.

Teaching Points

Divine Blueprint
God's instructions are precise and purposeful. Just as Moses was to follow the divine blueprint for the Tabernacle, we are called to follow God's Word in our lives with diligence and faithfulness.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. In our lives, we should cultivate an awareness of God's presence and seek to make our hearts a dwelling place for Him.

Obedience and Faith
Moses' obedience in constructing the Tabernacle according to God's plan is a model for us. We are called to trust and obey God's instructions, even when we do not fully understand them.

Symbolism and Fulfillment
The Tabernacle points to greater spiritual truths fulfilled in Christ. Understanding the symbolism helps us appreciate the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Community and Worship
The construction of the Tabernacle was a communal effort, reflecting the importance of community in worship and service. We are encouraged to work together as the body of Christ to build up the church.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed plan for the Tabernacle reflect God's character and His relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives are aligned with God's "blueprint" as revealed in Scripture?

3. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the Tabernacle relate to the New Testament understanding of Jesus and the Holy Spirit?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate a sense of God's presence in our daily lives?

5. How can the communal effort in building the Tabernacle inspire us to contribute to our local church and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 8:5
This verse explains that the earthly tabernacle was a shadow of the heavenly things, emphasizing the importance of following God's exact instructions as a reflection of heavenly realities.

Exodus 25:9
God instructs Moses to make the Tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly according to the pattern shown to him, highlighting the importance of divine order and precision.

1 Chronicles 28:19
David speaks of the plans for the Temple, given by God, showing a continuity in the importance of divine instruction for places of worship.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, drawing a parallel between the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place and Jesus as the ultimate manifestation of God's presence.

Revelation 21:3
The ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with His people is seen in the new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with humanity eternally.