Exodus 40:8

Set up the surrounding courtyard and hang the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard.

Study Bible

Set up the surrounding courtyard
The courtyard was an essential part of the Tabernacle, serving as a boundary that separated the sacred space from the common areas. It was a place where the Israelites could gather and offer sacrifices, symbolizing a transition from the secular to the holy. The courtyard measured 100 cubits long and 50 cubits wide, as described in Exodus 27:9-19. This space was enclosed by linen curtains, which were supported by bronze pillars. The use of bronze, a durable metal, signifies strength and endurance, reflecting the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel. The courtyard's design emphasized the holiness of the Tabernacle, reminding the Israelites of the need for purity and reverence when approaching God.

and hang the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard.
The entrance curtain, also known as the screen, was made of finely twisted linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, as detailed in Exodus 27:16. This curtain served as the sole entry point into the courtyard, symbolizing the exclusivity and sanctity of access to God's presence. The colors used in the curtain were significant, with blue representing divinity, purple symbolizing royalty, and scarlet indicating sacrifice. These colors foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who is the divine King and ultimate sacrifice. The curtain's function as a barrier also pointed to the separation between God and humanity due to sin, a separation that would later be bridged by Christ's atoning work. The act of hanging the curtain was a final step in preparing the Tabernacle for worship, underscoring the importance of order and obedience in the worship of God.

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. In this chapter, Moses is given specific instructions for setting up the Tabernacle.

2. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was a central place of worship and sacrifice during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Courtyard
The outer area surrounding the Tabernacle, enclosed by curtains. It served as a boundary between the sacred space of the Tabernacle and the rest of the camp.

4. Curtain
A fabric barrier that served as the entrance to the courtyard, symbolizing a separation between the holy and the common.

5. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to worship Him according to the instructions given through Moses.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
Moses' careful adherence to God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its courtyard highlights the importance of obedience in our walk with God. We are called to follow His Word with precision and reverence.

Sacred Space and Worship
The establishment of the courtyard and its curtain signifies the need for a designated space for worship. In our lives, we should create and honor spaces and times dedicated to worship and communion with God.

Separation and Holiness
The curtain symbolizes the separation between the holy and the common. As believers, we are called to live lives that are set apart, reflecting God's holiness in our actions and decisions.

Access to God
The entrance to the courtyard points to the access we have to God through Jesus Christ. We should approach God with confidence, knowing that Christ has made a way for us to enter His presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the Tabernacle and its courtyard reflect the character of God, and what does this teach us about His nature?

2. In what ways can we create "sacred spaces" in our daily lives to foster a deeper relationship with God?

3. How does the concept of separation between the holy and the common apply to our modern Christian walk?

4. What parallels can we draw between the curtain of the Tabernacle and Jesus' role as the "gate" in our spiritual journey?

5. How can we ensure that our obedience to God's instructions is both precise and heartfelt, rather than merely ritualistic?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27:9-19
Provides detailed instructions for the construction of the courtyard, emphasizing the importance of following God's design.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, drawing a parallel to the heavenly sanctuary and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

John 10:9
Jesus refers to Himself as the gate, symbolizing the entrance to salvation, much like the curtain served as the entrance to the sacred space.