Exodus 40:18

When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases, positioned its frames, inserted its crossbars, and set up its posts.

Study Bible

When Moses set up the tabernacle
This phrase marks the culmination of the instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai regarding the construction of the tabernacle (Exodus 25-31). The tabernacle, also known as the "Tent of Meeting," served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It symbolizes God's desire to dwell with His people, a theme that is fulfilled in the New Testament with the incarnation of Jesus Christ (John 1:14). The act of setting up the tabernacle signifies obedience to God's detailed instructions and the beginning of a new phase in Israel's relationship with God.

he laid its bases
The bases, or sockets, were made of silver and served as the foundation for the tabernacle's structure (Exodus 26:19). Silver in the Bible often symbolizes redemption, as seen in the silver shekels used for the atonement money (Exodus 30:11-16). The solid foundation of the tabernacle can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the foundation of the Church (1 Corinthians 3:11).

positioned its frames
The frames, or boards, were made of acacia wood overlaid with gold (Exodus 26:15-30). Acacia wood is known for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizing the incorruptible nature of Christ. The gold overlay represents His divinity. The positioning of the frames indicates the careful and precise nature of God's instructions, reflecting His order and holiness.

inserted its crossbars
The crossbars provided stability and unity to the structure of the tabernacle (Exodus 26:26-28). They can be seen as a symbol of the unity and strength found in the body of Christ, the Church. Just as the crossbars held the frames together, the Holy Spirit unites believers in Christ (Ephesians 4:3-4).

and set up its posts
The posts were essential for supporting the curtains and the overall structure of the tabernacle (Exodus 26:32-37). They represent the support and strength provided by God to His people. In a broader sense, the posts can be seen as a type of the apostles and prophets, who are foundational to the Church (Ephesians 2:20). The setting up of the posts signifies the completion and readiness of the tabernacle for worship and the presence of God.

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 responsible for setting up the tabernacle according to God's instructions.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It was a central place of worship and symbolized God's presence with His people.

3. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years after their exodus from Egypt. It is a place of testing, learning, and reliance on God.

4. The Bases, Frames, Crossbars, and Posts
These are the structural components of the tabernacle, each with specific instructions given by God. They represent the detailed obedience required in the construction of the tabernacle.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
Moses' careful assembly of the tabernacle demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's specific instructions. In our lives, we are called to follow God's Word with precision and faithfulness.

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 believers, offering guidance, comfort, and a constant presence.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The detailed construction of the tabernacle reminds us that our worship should be intentional and reverent. We are to approach God with respect and honor, recognizing His holiness.

The Role of Leadership in Spiritual Matters
Moses' leadership in setting up the tabernacle highlights the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide their communities in worship and obedience to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' obedience in setting up the tabernacle challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways does the tabernacle serve as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and presence in our lives today?

3. How can we ensure that our worship is intentional and reverent, reflecting the detailed care seen in the construction of the tabernacle?

4. What role does spiritual leadership play in guiding a community towards faithful worship and obedience to God?

5. How does understanding that we are the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16) impact the way we live and interact with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of following God's commands precisely.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament reflects on the tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work, highlighting the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant through Jesus.

1 Corinthians 3:16
This verse 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.