Bible Study Guide Day 038: Exodus 25–27
Put the bread of the Presence on this table to be before me at all times.
Exodus 25:30
Previous Day 037: Exodus 22–24
Exodus 25
Offerings for the Tabernacle
In this chapter, God commands Moses to collect materials from the Israelites for the construction of the tabernacle. He mentions specific items like precious metals, fine linens, and animal skins that are needed for building and furnishing the sacred structure.
This serves as a reminder that everything we offer to God should be of the highest quality, representing our best efforts and intentions.
The Ark
God also instructs Moses to build an ark made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. This is where the tablets containing the Ten Commandments will be kept, symbolizing God’s holy presence among His people.
Just like the ark, our hearts should also be pure and dedicated to God. We must strive to keep His commandments close to our hearts at all times.
The lid of the ark, known as the mercy seat, is adorned with two cherubim facing each other with their wings stretched out over it. This represents God’s throne and serves as a reminder of His heavenly rule over the Israelites.
The Table
Next, God instructs Moses to construct a table for the bread of the Presence. This represents the importance of continually being in God’s presence and having His Word before us at all times.
The Lampstand
God also commands Moses to create a lampstand with seven branches, symbolizing the light of God always shining brightly among His people. Just as the ancient Israelites were guided by this light, we too must allow God’s light to lead us and guide us in our daily lives.
Exodus 26
The Tabernacle
In chapter 26, God provides specific instructions for the construction of the tabernacle itself. He gives measurements and details for each component, emphasizing the importance of precision and attention to detail in honoring Him.
This reminds us that when we are doing something for God, no task is too small or insignificant. We must put in our best effort and strive for excellence in all that we do for His glory.
God also commands the creation of a curtain to divide the holy place from the most holy place, where only the high priest could enter once a year to make atonement for the sins of the people. This curtain symbolizes the separation between God and man, and it is only through the sacrifice of Jesus that we are able to enter into His presence.
Exodus 27
The Altar of Burnt Offering
God commands the construction of an altar made of acacia wood, overlaid with bronze. This is where burnt offerings, grain offerings, and fellowship offerings would be made to God.
The continual offering of sacrifices serves as a reminder that we must continually bring our hearts before God in worship and surrender.
The Courtyard
God also provides instructions for the construction of the courtyard surrounding the tabernacle. This serves as a reminder that God’s dwelling place is not limited to just one physical structure, but rather extends throughout His entire creation. We are His temple, and we must represent Him well in all aspects of our lives.
Oil for the Lampstand
Finally, God commands that pure olive oil be used to keep the lampstand burning continually. This represents the importance of continuously seeking and receiving the Holy Spirit in our lives to guide and empower us.