Exodus 26:15

You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle.

Study Bible

You are to construct
This phrase indicates a divine command given to Moses, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's instructions. The Hebrew root for "construct" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to make or do. This command reflects the active participation required by the Israelites in the creation of the tabernacle, symbolizing their commitment and dedication to God's dwelling place among them. It underscores the principle that worship involves both divine initiative and human response.

upright frames
The term "upright frames" refers to the structural components of the tabernacle, which were to be vertical and sturdy. The Hebrew word for "frames" is "קֶרֶשׁ" (qeresh), which denotes a plank or board. These frames provided the necessary support for the tabernacle, symbolizing the strength and stability of God's presence. Historically, the use of frames highlights the portable nature of the tabernacle, allowing it to be dismantled and reassembled as the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness.

of acacia wood
Acacia wood, known in Hebrew as "שִׁטָּה" (shittah), was chosen for its durability and resistance to decay, making it ideal for the harsh desert environment. Acacia trees were abundant in the Sinai region, providing a practical and readily available resource. The use of acacia wood signifies the incorruptible and enduring nature of God's covenant with His people. In a spiritual sense, it points to the purity and righteousness required in the service of God.

for the tabernacle
The tabernacle, or "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan) in Hebrew, means "dwelling place." It was the sacred tent where God's presence resided among the Israelites. The construction of the tabernacle was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as it represented God's desire to dwell with His people. The tabernacle served as a foreshadowing of the coming of Christ, who would tabernacle among us (John 1:14). It also prefigures the believer's body as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), emphasizing the holiness and reverence due to God in our lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for building the tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Acacia Wood
A durable and resistant wood used in the construction of the tabernacle, symbolizing strength and endurance.

4. Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to build the tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God.

5. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the instructions for the tabernacle and the Ten Commandments.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Just as the Israelites were instructed to follow God's specific plans for the tabernacle, we are called to obey God's instructions in our lives.

Symbolism of Acacia Wood
The use of acacia wood, known for its durability, reminds us of the enduring nature of God's presence and promises.

God's Desire to Dwell Among Us
The tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to be present with His people, a theme that continues through Christ and the Holy Spirit.

The Role of Sacred Spaces
The tabernacle was a sacred space for worship and meeting with God, encouraging us to create and honor spaces for worship in our lives.

Foreshadowing of Christ
The tabernacle points to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with humanity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the tabernacle reflect God's desire to dwell among His people, and how is this fulfilled in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we create "sacred spaces" in our own lives to meet with God, similar to the tabernacle?

3. What does the use of acacia wood in the tabernacle's construction teach us about the qualities God values in His dwelling place?

4. How does the concept of the tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God relate to the New Testament teaching that believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit?

5. How can understanding the detailed instructions for the tabernacle's construction enhance our appreciation for God's attention to detail and His plans for our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:8-9
These verses provide the initial command to build the tabernacle, emphasizing its purpose as a dwelling place for God among His people.

Hebrews 9:11
This verse connects the earthly tabernacle to the heavenly one, showing how the tabernacle foreshadows Christ's work.

1 Corinthians 3:16
This verse relates to the concept of believers being the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the tabernacle as God's dwelling place.

Isaiah 4:6
This verse speaks of a shelter and refuge, similar to the protective and sacred function of the tabernacle.

Revelation 21:3
This verse describes the ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with humanity, as foreshadowed by the tabernacle.