Exodus 40:28

Then he put up the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle.

Study Bible

Then he put up the curtain
The curtain, also known as the veil, served as a barrier between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place within the tabernacle. This act of putting up the curtain signifies the establishment of a sacred boundary, emphasizing the holiness of God and the separation between God and man due to sin. The curtain is a significant element in the tabernacle, symbolizing the need for mediation between God and humanity. In the New Testament, the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) signifies the removal of this barrier, granting believers direct access to God through Christ.

at the entrance
The entrance to the tabernacle was the designated point of access for the priests who ministered within. This entrance was carefully constructed and positioned, reflecting the order and precision of God's instructions to Moses. The entrance symbolizes the way to approach God, which in the New Testament is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who declared Himself to be "the way" (John 14:6). The entrance's location and design underscore the importance of approaching God in the manner He prescribes.

to the tabernacle
The tabernacle was the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It was a central element of Israelite worship and community life, representing God's desire to dwell among His people. The tabernacle's construction and layout were given in detail by God to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25-31), highlighting its significance. The tabernacle prefigures the incarnation of Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14), and points forward to the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive the Law. He is responsible for setting up the tabernacle as instructed by God.

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

3. Curtain (Veil)
A significant element in the tabernacle, symbolizing the separation between the holy place and the most holy place, where God's presence dwelt. It represents the barrier between God and man due to sin.

4. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying to the Promised Land. They were to worship God according to the laws and structures He provided.

5. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years. It is a place of testing, learning, and preparation for entering the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Separation
The curtain represents the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. Reflect on the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus' death tore the veil, granting believers direct access to God. Embrace the privilege of approaching God with confidence through Christ.

The Role of Obedience
Moses' careful adherence to God's instructions for the tabernacle teaches the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

God's Presence Among His People
The tabernacle signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. Recognize and cherish God's presence in your life today.

Preparation for Worship
Just as the tabernacle was prepared for worship, prepare your heart and life to be a dwelling place for God's presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the curtain in the tabernacle symbolize the separation between God and humanity, and how is this relevant to our understanding of sin and holiness today?

2. In what ways does the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion impact our relationship with God, and how can we live in light of this truth?

3. How can Moses' obedience in setting up the tabernacle inspire us to follow God's instructions in our own lives?

4. What does the presence of God in the tabernacle teach us about His desire to be with His people, and how can we cultivate an awareness of His presence daily?

5. How can we prepare our hearts and lives to be a dwelling place for God's presence, similar to the preparation of the tabernacle for worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the tabernacle and its elements, including the curtain, as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the new covenant.

Matthew 27:51
Describes the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity through Christ's sacrifice.

Leviticus 16
Details the Day of Atonement, when the high priest would enter the most holy place, highlighting the significance of the curtain as a barrier to God's presence.