Exodus 39:33

Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses: the tent with all its furnishings, its clasps, its frames, its crossbars, and its posts and bases;

Study Bible

Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses:
This phrase signifies the completion of the construction of the tabernacle, a central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The tabernacle was a portable sanctuary, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Bringing it to Moses indicates the fulfillment of God's instructions given to him on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25:9). Moses, as the leader and mediator between God and Israel, was responsible for ensuring that the tabernacle was built according to the divine pattern. This act of bringing the tabernacle to Moses also reflects the obedience and unity of the Israelites in following God's commands.

the tent with all its furnishings:
The tent refers to the main structure of the tabernacle, which included the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies). The furnishings included the Ark of the Covenant, the table for the Bread of the Presence, the golden lampstand, and the altar of incense, each with specific symbolic meanings. The Ark, for instance, represented God's throne and His covenant with Israel. These furnishings were crafted with precision and care, as described in earlier chapters of Exodus, highlighting the importance of worship and reverence in the Israelite community.

its clasps, its frames, its crossbars, and its posts and bases:
These components were essential for the structural integrity and portability of the tabernacle. The clasps held the curtains together, the frames provided support, the crossbars added stability, and the posts and bases formed the foundation. Each element was made according to God's detailed instructions, emphasizing the order and precision required in worship. The use of specific materials, such as acacia wood and gold, reflects the tabernacle's sacred purpose. This meticulous construction process can be seen as a type of Christ, foreshadowing the perfect and complete work of Jesus, who is the ultimate dwelling place of God among men (John 1:14).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. Moses is the central figure who receives the completed tabernacle.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary constructed by the Israelites as a place of worship and the dwelling place of God among His people. It symbolizes God's presence and guidance.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who were tasked with constructing the tabernacle according to the divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

4. The Tent and Its Furnishings
This includes the various components of the tabernacle, such as the tent itself, clasps, frames, crossbars, posts, and bases, all crafted with precision and care.

5. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the instructions for the tabernacle, representing a significant moment of divine revelation and covenant.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' careful construction of the tabernacle according to God's specifications teaches us the importance of obedience in our walk with God. We are called to follow His Word with precision and dedication.

God's Presence Among His People
The tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within us, offering guidance, comfort, and a constant reminder of His presence.

The Role of Community in Worship
The construction of the tabernacle was a communal effort, reflecting the importance of unity and collaboration in the body of Christ. We are called to work together in building up the church and serving one another.

Foreshadowing of Christ
The tabernacle serves as a type of Christ, pointing to His role as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for the fulfillment of God's plan in Jesus.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the tabernacle reflect the importance of obedience to God's commands in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the tabernacle symbolize God's presence, and how can we experience His presence in our daily lives?

3. How can the communal effort in building the tabernacle inspire us to work together in our local church communities?

4. What are some ways the tabernacle foreshadows the work of Christ, and how does this understanding impact our faith?

5. How can we apply the principles of precision and dedication seen in the construction of the tabernacle to our personal spiritual growth and service to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the tabernacle, highlighting the importance of obedience and precision in following God's commands.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage discusses the tabernacle's role as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice and the heavenly sanctuary, emphasizing the fulfillment of the Old Testament types in Jesus.

1 Corinthians 3:16
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel between the physical tabernacle and the spiritual dwelling of God within His people today.