Exodus 36:18

He also made fifty bronze clasps to join the tent together as a unit.

Study Bible

He also made fifty bronze clasps
The use of bronze in the construction of the tabernacle signifies strength and durability. Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, was commonly used in ancient times for tools and weapons, symbolizing judgment and endurance. The number fifty often represents completeness or fullness in biblical numerology, as seen in the Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10). The clasps were essential for holding the tent structure together, indicating the importance of unity and cohesion in the community of believers.

to join the tent together
The tent refers to the tabernacle, the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The joining of the tent signifies the unity and oneness of the structure, reflecting the unity of God's people. This act of joining can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament concept of the church as the body of Christ, where believers are joined together in faith and purpose (Ephesians 4:16).

as a unit
The tabernacle was designed to be a single, cohesive unit, symbolizing the singularity of God's covenant with Israel. This unity is a reflection of the divine order and harmony intended for God's creation. The concept of being a unit also points to the future unity of believers in Christ, as seen in Jesus' prayer for unity among His followers (John 17:21). The tabernacle's construction as a unified whole prefigures the ultimate unity of heaven and earth in the new creation (Revelation 21:3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. They were filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, constructed according to the divine pattern given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying through the wilderness to the Promised Land.

4. Mount Sinai
The mountain where God gave Moses the Ten Commandments and detailed instructions for building the Tabernacle.

5. The Bronze Clasps
These were used to join the curtains of the Tabernacle, symbolizing unity and completeness in the structure.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
Just as the bronze clasps unified the various parts of the Tabernacle, believers are called to unity in the body of Christ, despite diverse gifts and roles.

Divine Order and Design
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle remind us that God is a God of order and purpose. Our lives should reflect His order and design.

The Role of Skilled Workmanship
God values skilled work and craftsmanship, as seen in the roles of Bezalel and Oholiab. We should use our talents and skills for God's glory.

Symbolism of Completeness
The clasps symbolize completeness and wholeness. In Christ, we find our completeness and are held together by His love and purpose.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' adherence to God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle construction is a model of obedience and faithfulness for us today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Bezalel and Oholiab in the construction of the Tabernacle inspire you to use your skills for God's purposes?

2. In what ways can the unity of the Tabernacle, held together by the bronze clasps, be a model for unity within the church today?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's order and design in your life. How did it impact your faith journey?

4. How can the concept of divine craftsmanship in the Tabernacle encourage you to pursue excellence in your work or ministry?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that your life reflects obedience to God's instructions, similar to the Israelites' obedience in building the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:1-11
This passage describes the calling and equipping of Bezalel and Oholiab, emphasizing the divine inspiration behind the craftsmanship of the Tabernacle.

Ephesians 4:16
This New Testament verse speaks of the body of Christ being joined and held together, similar to how the clasps held the Tabernacle together, symbolizing unity in the church.

1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Paul discusses the unity and diversity of the body of Christ, paralleling the unity achieved in the Tabernacle through the bronze clasps.