In the latter verses of the book of Exodus, Moses has directed the erection and arrangement of the tabernacle, the cloud of God's presence (Spirit) covered the tabernacle as God's presence fill the tabernacle. From this point forward, the cloud would hover above the tabernacle. When the cloud lifted, the Israelites would disassemble the tabernacle … Continue reading The Cloud, The Glory, and the Burnt Offering (Exodus 40:34-38; Leviticus 1:1-17)
The Plan Comes Together (Exodus 40:1 – 33)
The tabernacle was constructed, but not yet erected. Moses was following the leadership of the Lord at every turn. God gave some final instructions for the procedure for its erection that would ensure that God's presence and blessing would be upon it. God instructed them to erect the Tabernacle of Meeting on the first day … Continue reading The Plan Comes Together (Exodus 40:1 – 33)
The Completion of the Garments and the Tabernacle (Exodus 39:22 – 43)
The other priestly garments served specific purposes during the ministry unto the Lord. The robe had a hem with pomegranates and bells sewn to it, which would serve as an alarm system for the high priest when he ministered in the Holy of Holies. If the priest entered the section with the Ark and had … Continue reading The Completion of the Garments and the Tabernacle (Exodus 39:22 – 43)
The Ephod and the Breastplate (Exodus 39:2 – 21)
The design for the priestly garments was followed specifically by the artisans. The Lord's instructions to Moses were carried out exactly in order to obey God. The priests were to be dressed in expensive, beautiful clothing as they served before the Lord. They were given specific ways in order to minister and even to appear, … Continue reading The Ephod and the Breastplate (Exodus 39:2 – 21)
Priestly Garments (Exodus 39:1)
This single verse simply reiterates the earlier admonition as to the color of the priestly garments, that they should be blue, purple, and scarlet. This may not seem especially significant until one understands the significance of the colors. Blue usually signifies a connection with heaven. Therefore, the priest should be a citizen of heaven, with … Continue reading Priestly Garments (Exodus 39:1)
A Splendid Tabernacle (Exodus 38:9 – 31)
This passage shows how the structure of the tabernacle was put together with sockets and pillars and boards. It was an elaborate structure, but still very portable and somewhat easy to assemble or disassemble. An interesting part of the story at the end was the inventory of the tabernacle. The talent in Biblical times was … Continue reading A Splendid Tabernacle (Exodus 38:9 – 31)
Altar of Burnt Offering and the Bronze Laver (Exodus 38:1 – 8)
It is interesting to note that the altar of burnt offering and the laver were made of bronze rather than God. These items did not represent or house the express presence of God. Instead, they were instruments of God or preparatory places in order to go further into the presence of God. The altar of … Continue reading Altar of Burnt Offering and the Bronze Laver (Exodus 38:1 – 8)
Anointing Oil and Incense (Exodus 37:29)
Just as the Articles of Furniture were constructed according to the Lord's specific instructions, so the anointing oil and the incense were compounded by His exact specifications. We do not need to offer strange fire, or incense that is of another composition. Instead, bring God what He commands and He can bless your offering. When … Continue reading Anointing Oil and Incense (Exodus 37:29)
The Lampstand and the Altar of Incense (Exodus 37:17 – 28)
As the Ark of the Covenant represents the Judge of the Universe and Father of All, and the Table of Showbread represents the Bread of Life, the Lampstand and its oil represents the presence of the Holy Spirit. The branches of the Lampstand often represent the churches of God in other literature. In this case, … Continue reading The Lampstand and the Altar of Incense (Exodus 37:17 – 28)
The Ark and the Table (Exodus 37:1 – 16)
This segment of Scripture recounts the construction of the Ark of the Covenant and the Table for the Showbread. These items are constructed according to the exact standards that the Lord gave Moses. It is certain that they were stunning pieces, worthy of the tabernacle of the Lord, overlaid with gold and a molding all … Continue reading The Ark and the Table (Exodus 37:1 – 16)