Exodus 40:25

and set up the lamps before the LORD, just as the LORD had commanded him.

Study Bible

and set up the lamps before the LORD
The lamps refer to the golden lampstand, or menorah, which was placed in the Tabernacle. This lampstand was made of pure gold and had seven branches, symbolizing perfection and completeness. The lighting of the lamps was a daily ritual performed by the priests, signifying the presence of God’s light among His people. The lamps were to burn continually, representing God's eternal presence and guidance. This act of setting up the lamps is a reminder of the light of God that guides His people, a theme echoed in Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." The menorah also prefigures Jesus Christ, who declared Himself the "light of the world" in John 8:12, indicating that He is the ultimate source of spiritual illumination.

just as the LORD had commanded him
This phrase emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's instructions. Throughout the construction and setting up of the Tabernacle, Moses followed God's commands precisely, demonstrating faithfulness and reverence. This obedience is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting the necessity of following God's will. In the broader biblical narrative, obedience to God is often linked to blessings and the fulfillment of His promises, as seen in Deuteronomy 28. The phrase also underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where adherence to His commands was a sign of their commitment and devotion. This obedience is mirrored in the New Testament, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of following God's commandments as an expression of love for Him (John 14:15).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses is responsible for setting up the Tabernacle and ensuring everything is done according to God's instructions.

2. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was meticulously constructed according to divine specifications given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

3. The Lamps
Part of the golden lampstand (Menorah) within the Tabernacle, which Moses lit as part of the consecration process. The lighting of the lamps symbolizes God's presence and guidance.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who commanded Moses to set up the Tabernacle and perform the rituals as a sign of His dwelling among His people.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to worship Him and follow His commandments as they journeyed to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Moses' actions in lighting the lamps "just as the LORD had commanded him" demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's instructions. In our lives, we are called to follow God's Word with precision and faithfulness.

Symbolism of Light
The lighting of the lamps symbolizes God's presence and guidance. As believers, we are called to be lights in the world, reflecting God's presence and truth to those around us.

God's Dwelling Among His People
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within us, making our lives a living Tabernacle.

Continual Worship and Devotion
The continual burning of the lamps signifies ongoing worship and devotion. We are encouraged to maintain a constant relationship with God through prayer, worship, and the study of His Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' obedience in lighting the lamps challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can we be a light to those around us, reflecting the presence of God in our lives?

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

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our worship and devotion to God are continual and not just occasional?

5. How do the instructions for the Tabernacle and its elements, like the lamps, enhance our understanding of God's holiness and our approach to worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:1-4
This passage provides further instructions on the care and maintenance of the lamps, emphasizing the importance of keeping them burning continually before the LORD.

John 8:12
Jesus refers to Himself as the "light of the world," drawing a parallel to the light of the lamps in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's presence and guidance.

Psalm 119:105
The psalmist describes God's word as a lamp to our feet, highlighting the guiding and illuminating role of God's presence and commandments in our lives.