Exodus 40:9

Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it along with all its furnishings, and it shall be holy.

Study Bible

Take the anointing oil
The anointing oil was a sacred mixture described in Exodus 30:22-25, composed of myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia, and olive oil. This oil was used exclusively for consecrating the tabernacle and its contents, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's presence and sanctification. The use of oil in anointing signifies setting apart for God's purposes, a practice seen throughout Scripture, including the anointing of kings and priests.

and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it;
The tabernacle was the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. Anointing the tabernacle and its contents signified dedicating them to God's service. This act of anointing foreshadows the New Testament understanding of believers as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), set apart for God's purposes.

consecrate it along with all its furnishings,
To consecrate means to make or declare something sacred, dedicating it to divine service. The furnishings of the tabernacle, including the altar, lampstand, and table of showbread, were integral to the worship and sacrificial system established by God. This consecration underscores the holiness required in approaching God, a theme echoed in Hebrews 9:21-22, which speaks of the necessity of purification through blood.

and it shall be holy.
Holiness is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's nature and His requirement for His people. The tabernacle's holiness was not inherent but derived from God's presence and the consecration process. This mirrors the call for believers to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16), emphasizing a life set apart for God's glory. The tabernacle's holiness also points to Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and the prophets, becoming the ultimate holy temple through His life, death, and resurrection.

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 context, Moses is instructed to anoint the tabernacle.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications. It symbolizes God's presence with His people.

3. Anointing Oil
A sacred mixture used for consecrating the tabernacle and its furnishings, signifying holiness and dedication to God.

4. Consecration
The act of making something sacred or holy, setting it apart for God's purposes.

5. Holiness
The state of being holy, which in this context means being set apart for God's service and presence.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Holiness
Holiness is central to our relationship with God. Just as the tabernacle was consecrated, our lives should be set apart for God's purposes.

Symbolism of Anointing
Anointing with oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment. As believers, we are anointed by the Spirit to live out our faith.

God's Presence Among His People
The tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence. Today, God dwells within us through the Holy Spirit, making our bodies His temple.

Consecration in Daily Life
We are called to consecrate our lives, dedicating our actions, thoughts, and possessions to God's service.

The Role of Obedience
Moses' obedience in anointing the tabernacle is a model for us. Obedience to God's instructions is crucial in our walk with Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in Exodus 40:9 apply to our lives today as believers?

2. In what ways can we consecrate our daily activities to God, similar to the consecration of the tabernacle?

3. How does the anointing of the tabernacle foreshadow the work of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our lives reflect the holiness that God desires?

5. How does understanding the role of the tabernacle enhance our appreciation of Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence among His people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8:10-11
This passage describes the anointing of the tabernacle and its furnishings, reinforcing the theme of consecration and holiness.

1 Samuel 16:13
The anointing of David as king, illustrating the use of anointing oil to set apart individuals for God's purposes.

Hebrews 9:11-12
Discusses Christ as the greater and more perfect tabernacle, connecting the Old Testament tabernacle to the New Testament understanding of Jesus' role.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a royal priesthood, a holy nation, emphasizing the call to holiness for all who follow Christ.