Exodus 39:2

Bezalel made the ephod of finely spun linen embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn.

Study Bible

Bezalel made the ephod
Bezalel, a skilled craftsman chosen by God, was filled with the Spirit of God to carry out the intricate work of constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings (Exodus 31:1-5). The ephod was a sacred garment worn by the high priest, signifying his role as a mediator between God and the people. This highlights the importance of divine calling and empowerment in fulfilling God's purposes.

of finely spun linen
Linen was a high-quality fabric made from flax, known for its purity and durability. In the context of the priestly garments, linen symbolized purity and righteousness, essential qualities for those serving in the presence of God. Linen's use in the ephod underscores the holiness required of the high priest.

embroidered with gold
Gold, a symbol of divinity and kingship, was intricately woven into the fabric, signifying the divine nature and authority of the priestly office. The use of gold in the ephod reflects the heavenly glory and majesty associated with God's presence, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn
These colors held significant meaning in the biblical context. Blue often represented the heavens and divine revelation, purple symbolized royalty and wealth, and scarlet was associated with sacrifice and atonement. Together, these colors in the ephod pointed to the multifaceted role of the high priest as a mediator, intercessor, and representative of God's people. The combination of these colors also foreshadows the work of Jesus Christ, who embodies divine revelation, kingship, and the ultimate sacrifice for sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Artisans
Skilled craftsmen, including Bezalel and Oholiab, who were filled with the Spirit of God to carry out the work of constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the ephod.

2. The Ephod
A sacred garment worn by the high priest, made with specific materials and colors as commanded by God, symbolizing the priest's role in representing the people before God.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the Law and instructions for worship, including the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings from God on Mount Sinai.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The artisans followed God's specific instructions for the ephod, demonstrating the importance of obedience in worship and service to God.

Symbolism in Worship
The materials and colors used in the ephod symbolize various aspects of God's character and the priestly role, reminding us of the depth and richness of biblical symbolism in worship.

God's Provision of Skills
God equipped the artisans with the skills needed for the task, reminding us that God provides us with the abilities we need to fulfill His purposes.

The Role of the Priesthood
The ephod signifies the mediatory role of the priest, pointing us to Jesus Christ, our ultimate High Priest, who intercedes for us.

Unity in Diversity
The combination of different materials and colors in the ephod reflects the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, where each member has a unique role to play.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the artisans in making the ephod challenge us in our own obedience to God's instructions today?

2. In what ways do the materials and colors of the ephod enhance our understanding of the nature of God and His expectations for worship?

3. How can we identify and use the skills and talents God has given us to serve Him and His people?

4. What does the role of the high priest in the Old Testament teach us about the priesthood of Jesus Christ?

5. How can the concept of unity in diversity, as seen in the construction of the ephod, be applied to our relationships within the church community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 28:6-14
Provides the initial instructions for making the ephod, highlighting its significance and the materials to be used.

Leviticus 8:7
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons, where the ephod is part of the priestly garments, emphasizing its role in the priesthood.

Hebrews 9:11-12
Connects the Old Testament priestly garments and rituals to the ultimate high priesthood of Jesus Christ, who entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all.