Exodus 36:23

He constructed twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle,

Study Bible

He made
This phrase indicates the active involvement and obedience of the craftsmen, particularly Bezalel and Oholiab, who were filled with the Spirit of God to carry out the work of constructing the tabernacle. The Hebrew root for "made" is עָשָׂה (asah), which means to do, fashion, or accomplish. This reflects the divine-human partnership in the creation of sacred spaces, emphasizing that human effort, when aligned with divine instruction, results in the fulfillment of God's purposes.

twenty frames
The "twenty frames" refer to the structural components of the tabernacle, which were made of acacia wood overlaid with gold. The Hebrew word for "frames" is קֶרֶשׁ (qeresh), meaning a board or plank. These frames were essential for the stability and integrity of the tabernacle, symbolizing the strength and unity required in the community of believers. The number twenty, often associated with completeness and a cycle of waiting, suggests the readiness and preparation necessary for worship.

for the south side
The "south side" of the tabernacle was one of the longer sides, measuring approximately 45 feet. In biblical symbolism, the south often represents warmth, light, and blessing, as it is the direction of the sun's path. The placement of the frames on the south side signifies the importance of aligning the structure with divine illumination and favor, ensuring that the tabernacle was a place where God's presence could dwell among His people.

of the tabernacle
The "tabernacle" was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, known in Hebrew as מִשְׁכָּן (mishkan), meaning dwelling or habitation. It served as a central place of worship and sacrifice during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The tabernacle's construction was a foreshadowing of the coming of Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14), and it points to the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity in the New Jerusalem. The meticulous details of its construction highlight the holiness and reverence due to God, reminding believers of the sacredness of worship and the call to be a living temple for His Spirit.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the tabernacle.

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

4. The Israelites
The people of God, who contributed materials and labor for the construction of the tabernacle.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites traveled and where the tabernacle was constructed.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The construction of the tabernacle highlights the importance of following God's specific instructions. Just as the Israelites were meticulous in their obedience, we are called to adhere to God's Word in our lives.

Community Contribution
The building of the tabernacle was a communal effort, with each person contributing their skills and resources. This teaches us the value of working together as a community of believers to accomplish God's purposes.

God's Presence
The tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, we are reminded that God dwells within us through the Holy Spirit, and we should live in a way that honors His presence.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle serves as a symbol of God's desire to dwell with His people. It points forward to Jesus Christ, who made the ultimate sacrifice to bring us into a relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the tabernacle reflect the importance of obedience to God's instructions in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we contribute to the building up of our church community, similar to how the Israelites contributed to the tabernacle?

3. How does understanding the tabernacle as a dwelling place for God enhance our appreciation of being the temple of the Holy Spirit today?

4. What are some practical ways we can honor God's presence in our daily lives, knowing that He dwells within us?

5. How does the symbolism of the tabernacle deepen our understanding of Jesus' role as our mediator and high priest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions given by God to Moses regarding the construction of the tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of following divine instructions.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament discusses the significance of 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 the New Testament teaching that believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit.