1 Chronicles 21:29

For the tabernacle of the LORD that Moses had made in the wilderness and the altar of burnt offering were presently at the high place in Gibeon,

Study Bible

Now the tabernacle of the LORD
The phrase "tabernacle of the LORD" refers to the sacred tent that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The Hebrew word for tabernacle, "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), means "dwelling place" or "habitation." This emphasizes God's desire to be present with His people. The tabernacle was a precursor to the Temple, symbolizing God's holiness and the need for a mediator between God and humanity. It was a place of divine encounter, where sacrifices were made, and God's glory was manifested.

which Moses had made in the wilderness
This phrase highlights the historical context of the tabernacle's construction. Moses, under God's direct instruction, built the tabernacle during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The wilderness period was a time of testing and reliance on God, and the tabernacle was central to the Israelites' worship and community life. It served as a constant reminder of God's covenant and faithfulness, even in times of wandering and uncertainty.

and the altar of burnt offering
The "altar of burnt offering" was a key component of the tabernacle, where sacrifices were made to atone for sin and express devotion to God. The Hebrew word for altar, "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), is derived from a root meaning "to slaughter" or "sacrifice." This altar was a place of consecration and purification, symbolizing the need for atonement and the seriousness of sin. It foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself as the perfect atonement for humanity's sins.

were at that time on the high place at Gibeon
The "high place at Gibeon" refers to a significant worship site during the time before the Temple was built in Jerusalem. Gibeon was a city allocated to the tribe of Benjamin and became an important religious center. The use of high places for worship was common in ancient Israel, though it later became associated with idolatry. At this time, however, Gibeon was a legitimate site for worship, and the presence of the tabernacle and altar there indicates God's continued presence and the centrality of worship in the life of Israel. This setting underscores the transitional period in Israel's history, moving from the tabernacle to the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Tabernacle of the LORD
Originally constructed by Moses in the wilderness, this was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, containing the Ark of the Covenant.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader who led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness, receiving the Law from God and overseeing the construction of the Tabernacle.

3. The Altar of Burnt Offering
A significant part of the Tabernacle where sacrifices were made to God, symbolizing atonement and worship.

4. The High Place at Gibeon
A significant worship site during this period, where the Tabernacle and the altar were located before the construction of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem.

5. David
The King of Israel who sought to build a permanent temple for God, but was instructed that his son Solomon would complete this task.

Teaching Points

The Continuity of Worship
The presence of the Tabernacle at Gibeon underscores the continuity of worship practices from the wilderness to the establishment of the monarchy. It reminds us of the importance of maintaining consistent worship in our lives, regardless of changing circumstances.

The Significance of Sacred Spaces
The high place at Gibeon served as a central location for worship before the Temple was built. This teaches us about the importance of setting aside sacred spaces in our lives for communion with God, whether physical locations or dedicated times for prayer and reflection.

God's Presence in Transition
The transition from the Tabernacle to the Temple illustrates God's presence with His people through different phases of their journey. We can trust that God remains with us through the transitions and changes in our own lives.

Obedience and Worship
The use of the altar for burnt offerings at Gibeon highlights the role of obedience in worship. True worship involves a heart of obedience and submission to God's will, as demonstrated through the sacrificial system.

Preparation for Greater Things
David's desire to build a temple, though not fulfilled in his lifetime, set the stage for Solomon's eventual construction of the Temple. This teaches us about the importance of preparing and laying groundwork for future generations in our spiritual and personal endeavors.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the location of the Tabernacle at Gibeon reflect the Israelites' journey and relationship with God?

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

3. How does the continuity of worship practices from the Tabernacle to the Temple inform our understanding of worship today?

4. What lessons can we learn from David's preparation for the Temple that can be applied to our own spiritual preparations and goals?

5. How does the concept of obedience in worship, as seen in the use of the altar for burnt offerings, challenge or affirm your current approach to worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
Describes the construction and dedication of the Tabernacle by Moses, providing context for its significance in Israelite worship.

1 Kings 3
Details Solomon's worship at Gibeon, where he offered sacrifices and received wisdom from God, highlighting the continued importance of this site.

2 Chronicles 1
Reiterates the significance of Gibeon as a worship site during Solomon's reign, emphasizing the continuity of worship practices.