Leviticus 8:10

Next, Moses took the anointing oil and anointed the tabernacle and everything in it; and so he consecrated them.

Study Bible

Next, Moses took the anointing oil
The use of anointing oil in the Old Testament signifies setting apart for a holy purpose. Anointing oil was a blend of olive oil and spices, as described in Exodus 30:22-25. This oil was used exclusively for sacred purposes, emphasizing the sanctity of the tabernacle and its furnishings. The act of anointing with oil is a precursor to the New Testament practice of anointing with the Holy Spirit, as seen in Acts 10:38, where Jesus is described as being anointed by God.

and anointed 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 symbolized the dedication of these items to God’s service. This act of consecration ensured that everything within the tabernacle was holy and set apart for divine use. The anointing of the tabernacle foreshadows the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers, as described in 1 Corinthians 6:19, where the body is referred to as a temple of the Holy Spirit.

and so he consecrated them.
Consecration involves making something sacred or dedicating it to God. By anointing the tabernacle and its furnishings, Moses was following God’s command to sanctify these items for worship. This act of consecration is a type of Christ, who consecrates believers through His sacrifice, as seen in Hebrews 10:10. The consecration of the tabernacle parallels the believer's call to holiness, as stated in 1 Peter 1:15-16, where Christians are urged to be holy in all conduct.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to mediate the covenant at Sinai. In this passage, Moses acts as the priestly figure who anoints and consecrates the tabernacle and its furnishings.

2. Anointing Oil
A sacred mixture used for consecrating the tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests. The oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit and God's presence.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites. It was the center of worship and sacrificial offerings during their wilderness journey.

4. Consecration
The act of making something holy or set apart for God's purposes. In this context, it involves the anointing of the tabernacle and its contents to signify their dedication to God.

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

Teaching Points

The Importance of Consecration
Consecration is essential for service to God. Just as the tabernacle and its furnishings were set apart, believers are called to live holy lives dedicated to God's purposes.

Symbolism of Anointing Oil
The anointing oil represents the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment. Believers today are anointed by the Holy Spirit to serve God and fulfill His will.

God's Holiness and Our Response
The detailed process of consecration highlights God's holiness and the reverence required in approaching Him. Our worship and service should reflect this same reverence and dedication.

The Role of Mediators
Moses acted as a mediator in consecrating the tabernacle, pointing to Jesus Christ, our ultimate mediator, who consecrates us through His sacrifice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the consecration of the tabernacle in Leviticus 8:10 relate to the concept of being set apart for God's purposes in the New Testament?

2. In what ways does the anointing oil used by Moses symbolize the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer today?

3. How can understanding the holiness of God, as demonstrated in the consecration of the tabernacle, impact our daily worship and service to Him?

4. What parallels can be drawn between Moses' role in consecrating the tabernacle and Jesus' role as our High Priest?

5. How can we apply the principles of consecration and holiness in our personal lives and communities today, in light of other scriptures such as Romans 12:1-2?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:22-33
Provides the instructions for making the anointing oil and its exclusive use for consecrating the tabernacle and priests, emphasizing its sacredness.

1 Samuel 16:13
Describes the anointing of David by Samuel, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's empowerment, similar to the consecration of the tabernacle.

Hebrews 9:11-14
Discusses Christ as the greater High Priest who entered the heavenly tabernacle, connecting the Old Testament rituals to their fulfillment in Jesus.