Exodus 26:28

The central crossbar in the middle of the frames shall extend from one end to the other.

Study Bible

The central crossbar
This phrase refers to a key structural component of the Tabernacle, the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "crossbar" is "beriach," which implies a bar or a beam used for support. In the context of the Tabernacle, the central crossbar symbolizes the strength and unity required to hold the structure together. Spiritually, it can be seen as a representation of Christ, who is central to the faith and holds the Church together, providing strength and unity to believers.

in the middle of the frames
The "frames" refer to the wooden boards that formed the walls of the Tabernacle. The Hebrew word "kereš" is used for "frames," indicating a plank or board. These frames were made of acacia wood, known for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people. The placement of the crossbar "in the middle" signifies balance and stability, reminding believers of the importance of having Christ at the center of their lives, providing spiritual balance and stability.

shall extend from one end to the other
This phrase emphasizes the comprehensive reach and connection provided by the central crossbar. The Hebrew verb "mashak" means "to draw" or "to extend," indicating that the crossbar spans the entire length of the Tabernacle. This can be seen as a metaphor for God's omnipresence and His unifying presence among His people. It also reflects the idea that Christ's love and salvation extend to all corners of the earth, uniting believers from every nation and background into one body, the Church.

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 wandered for 40 years and where the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

5. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments and the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

Divine Order and Precision
God's instructions for the Tabernacle, including the central crossbar, highlight His attention to detail and the importance of following His commands precisely.

Unity and Strength
The central crossbar symbolizes unity and strength, holding the structure together. In the body of Christ, unity is essential for spiritual strength and growth.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, believers are called to be aware of God's presence in their lives and to live in a way that honors Him.

Foreshadowing Christ
The Tabernacle and its elements point to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan to dwell with His people. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for the Old Testament's relevance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the central crossbar in the Tabernacle reflect God's desire for order and structure in our lives?

2. In what ways can the unity symbolized by the central crossbar be applied to relationships within the church today?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place enhance our understanding of being the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our daily lives?

5. How does the construction of the Tabernacle foreshadow the work of Christ, and how can this understanding impact our faith journey?

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 Corinthians 3:16
This verse connects the concept of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place to believers being the temple of the Holy Spirit.

John 1:14
The Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us echoes the Tabernacle's purpose as God's dwelling among His people.