Exodus 26:19

with forty silver bases under the twenty frames--two bases for each frame, one under each tenon.

Study Bible

with forty silver bases
The use of "forty silver bases" in the construction of the Tabernacle is significant both numerically and materially. The number forty often symbolizes a period of testing or trial in the Bible, such as the forty years the Israelites spent in the wilderness. Silver, in biblical symbolism, often represents redemption and atonement. The silver bases provided a foundation for the Tabernacle, suggesting that the dwelling place of God among His people is founded upon redemption. Historically, silver was a valuable commodity, indicating the preciousness of the Tabernacle's foundation.

under the twenty frames
The "twenty frames" refer to the structural components of the Tabernacle's walls. These frames were made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold, and stood upright. The number twenty can symbolize a complete or perfect waiting period. The frames provided the necessary support for the curtains and coverings, symbolizing the strength and stability of God's presence. Theologically, this can be seen as a representation of the Church, which is built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone.

two bases for each frame
The "two bases for each frame" indicate a dual support system, ensuring stability and balance. This duality can be seen as a representation of the Old and New Covenants, both of which are foundational to the faith. The bases were made of silver, reinforcing the idea of redemption as the foundation of God's dwelling. This dual support also reflects the importance of both faith and works in the life of a believer, as both are necessary for a stable and balanced spiritual life.

one under each tenon
The "tenon" is a projection on the end of a piece of wood that fits into a corresponding mortise to form a joint. This method of construction ensured that the frames were securely joined together. Theologically, this can be seen as a representation of the unity and interdependence of the members of the Body of Christ. Each tenon fitting into its base signifies the individual believer's secure place within the community of faith, held together by the redemptive work of Christ. Historically, this method of construction reflects the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into the building of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the care and precision with which God instructed His people to create a dwelling place for His presence.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to construct the Tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites were journeying from Egypt to the Promised Land, during which the Tabernacle was constructed.

5. The Silver Bases
Part of the structural foundation of the Tabernacle, symbolizing stability and purity.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle highlight the importance of following God's commands precisely. As believers, we are called to obey God's Word in our lives.

Foundation of Faith
The silver bases represent a strong foundation. In our spiritual lives, Christ is our foundation, and we must build our lives upon Him.

Symbolism of Silver
Silver often symbolizes redemption and purity in Scripture. The use of silver in the Tabernacle's construction reminds us of the purity and redemption found in Christ.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within us, making our bodies His temple.

Community and Worship
The construction of the Tabernacle required the collective effort of the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of community in worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle reflect the character of God, and what does this teach us about His expectations for our lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that Christ remains the foundation of our faith, similar to the silver bases of the Tabernacle?

3. How does the symbolism of silver in the Tabernacle's construction relate to the concept of redemption in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our daily lives, as the Israelites experienced through the Tabernacle?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, work together to build a "spiritual house" that honors God, drawing from the example of the Israelites constructing the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the broader context of the Tabernacle's construction, detailing God's specific instructions to Moses.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage reflects on the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Peter 2:5
This verse speaks of believers as living stones being built into a spiritual house, drawing a parallel to the construction of the Tabernacle.

Revelation 21:3
This verse describes the ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with humanity, which the Tabernacle symbolized.