Exodus 26:30

So you are to set up the tabernacle according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.

Study Bible

So you are to set up
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to Moses, emphasizing the importance of obedience and precision in following divine instructions. The Hebrew root for "set up" is "qum," which means to establish or erect. This reflects the necessity for Moses to not only physically construct the tabernacle but also to ensure it stands as a testament to God's presence and order. The act of setting up the tabernacle is a sacred duty, symbolizing the establishment of a holy space where God would dwell among His people.

the tabernacle
The tabernacle, or "mishkan" in Hebrew, means "dwelling place." It was a portable sanctuary that served as the physical manifestation of God's presence with the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. The tabernacle was central to Israelite worship and community life, symbolizing God's desire to dwell among His people. Its construction and design were divinely ordained, reflecting heavenly realities and foreshadowing the coming of Christ, who would "tabernacle" among us (John 1:14).

according to the pattern
The word "pattern" in Hebrew is "tabnith," which implies a blueprint or model. This indicates that the tabernacle was not a product of human creativity but a divine design revealed to Moses. The pattern serves as a reminder that worship and the approach to God must be on His terms, not ours. It underscores the importance of adhering to God's instructions in all aspects of life and worship, ensuring that our practices align with His will.

shown you
This phrase highlights the revelatory nature of God's communication with Moses. The Hebrew word "ra'ah" means to see or perceive, suggesting that Moses was given a vision or insight into the heavenly design of the tabernacle. This divine revelation underscores the unique relationship between God and Moses, as well as the responsibility Moses bore in conveying God's instructions to the people. It also serves as a reminder that true understanding and wisdom come from God.

on the mountain
The mountain refers to Mount Sinai, a place of divine encounter and revelation. It was here that Moses received the Law and the instructions for the tabernacle. Mountains in Scripture often symbolize closeness to God and are places where significant spiritual events occur. The mention of the mountain emphasizes the sacredness of the instructions given to Moses and the importance of the tabernacle as a means of maintaining the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It serves as a reminder of the holiness and majesty of God, who calls His people to ascend to higher spiritual heights.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to receive the Law on Mount Sinai.

2. Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place for the divine presence, designed by God and constructed by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

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

4. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and journeyed through the wilderness to the Promised Land.

5. God's Presence
The divine presence that would dwell among the Israelites in the Tabernacle, signifying God's covenant and guidance.

Teaching Points

Divine Blueprint
God's instructions are precise and purposeful. Just as Moses was to follow the divine blueprint for the Tabernacle, we are called to follow God's Word in our lives with diligence and faithfulness.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. In our lives, we should cultivate an awareness of God's presence and seek to make our hearts a dwelling place for Him.

Obedience and Faith
Moses' obedience in constructing the Tabernacle according to God's plan is a model for us. We are called to trust and obey God's instructions, even when we do not fully understand them.

Symbolism and Fulfillment
The Tabernacle points to greater spiritual truths fulfilled in Christ. Understanding the symbolism helps us appreciate the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Community and Worship
The construction of the Tabernacle was a communal effort, reflecting the importance of community in worship and service. We are encouraged to work together as the body of Christ to build up the church.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed plan for the Tabernacle reflect God's character and His relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives are aligned with God's "blueprint" as revealed in Scripture?

3. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the Tabernacle relate to the New Testament understanding of Jesus and the Holy Spirit?

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

5. How can the communal effort in building the Tabernacle inspire us to contribute to our local church and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 8:5
This verse explains that the earthly tabernacle was a shadow of the heavenly things, emphasizing the importance of following God's exact instructions as a reflection of heavenly realities.

Exodus 25:9
God instructs Moses to make the Tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly according to the pattern shown to him, highlighting the importance of divine order and precision.

1 Chronicles 28:19
David speaks of the plans for the Temple, given by God, showing a continuity in the importance of divine instruction for places of worship.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, drawing a parallel between the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place and Jesus as the ultimate manifestation of God's presence.

Revelation 21:3
The ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with His people is seen in the new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with humanity eternally.