Exodus 38:30

He used it to make the bases for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, the bronze altar and its bronze grating, all the utensils for the altar,

Study Bible

He used it
This phrase refers to Bezalel, the skilled craftsman appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The "it" in this context is the bronze collected from the offerings of the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "used" (עָשָׂה, asah) implies not just the act of making but also the concept of creating with purpose and intention. This reflects the divine inspiration and guidance in the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing that every detail was crafted according to God's specific instructions.

to make the bases
The bases, or sockets, were foundational elements of the Tabernacle's structure. In Hebrew, the word for bases is "אֲדָנִים" (adan), which can also mean "foundations." This highlights the importance of a strong and stable foundation in both physical and spiritual contexts. The bases were made of bronze, symbolizing strength and judgment, and served as the support for the entire structure, reminding believers of the need for a firm foundation in their faith.

for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (Ohel Moed) in Hebrew, was the sacred space where God met with Moses and the Israelites. The entrance was a significant part of the Tabernacle, symbolizing access to God's presence. The construction of the entrance with bronze bases underscores the idea that approaching God requires a foundation of righteousness and reverence. Historically, the Tent of Meeting was central to Israelite worship and community life, serving as a tangible reminder of God's covenant and presence among His people.

the bronze altar
The bronze altar, or "מִזְבַּח הַנְּחֹשֶׁת" (mizbeach hanechoshet), was used for burnt offerings and sacrifices. Bronze, a durable and resilient metal, symbolizes judgment and endurance. The altar was a place of atonement and reconciliation, where the Israelites could offer sacrifices to God. This reflects the broader biblical theme of sacrifice as a means of restoring the relationship between God and humanity, ultimately pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

and its bronze grating
The grating, or "מִכְבָּר" (mikhbar), was a network or mesh placed on the altar. It allowed the ashes to fall through while retaining the sacrifice, ensuring that the offering was consumed by fire. This design highlights the thoroughness of the sacrificial process and the complete dedication required in worship. The grating's function serves as a metaphor for the refining and purifying work of God in the lives of believers, as they offer themselves as living sacrifices.

and all the utensils for the altar
The utensils, or "כְּלֵי" (klei), were essential tools used in the sacrificial rituals. These included items like shovels, basins, and forks, each crafted with precision and care. The mention of these utensils underscores the importance of preparation and order in worship. In a broader spiritual sense, it reminds believers of the need for readiness and the proper tools—such as prayer, scripture, and community—to engage in meaningful worship and service to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The chief artisan appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. He was filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship.

2. Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, it was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites as they journeyed through the wilderness.

3. Bronze Altar
A key component of the Tabernacle, used for burnt offerings and sacrifices. It symbolizes atonement and the need for a mediator between God and man.

4. Bronze Grating
Part of the altar's construction, it was used to hold the offerings above the fire, allowing the ashes to fall through.

5. Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from Egypt and were journeying to the Promised Land. They were commanded to build the Tabernacle as a place for God to dwell among them.

Teaching Points

Divine Purpose in Craftsmanship
God equips individuals with specific skills and talents for His purposes. Just as Bezalel was filled with the Spirit for the task of building the Tabernacle, we are called to use our gifts for God's glory.

Symbolism of the Altar
The bronze altar represents the need for atonement and sacrifice. In the New Covenant, Jesus is our ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the requirements of the law and providing a way for reconciliation with God.

God's Presence Among His People
The construction of the Tabernacle signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within believers, making our bodies His temple.

Obedience in Worship
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction highlight the importance of obedience in worship. We are called to worship God in spirit and truth, following His commands with reverence.

Community Contribution
The Israelites contributed materials for the Tabernacle's construction, demonstrating the importance of community involvement in God's work. We are encouraged to contribute our resources and talents to the church and its mission.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Bezalel in constructing the Tabernacle inspire you to use your talents for God's purposes today?

2. In what ways does the bronze altar foreshadow the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and how does this understanding impact your view of atonement?

3. How can we, as modern believers, ensure that we are creating spaces (both physical and spiritual) where God's presence is welcomed and honored?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' obedience in following God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, and how can we apply these lessons to our worship practices?

5. How can you contribute your resources and talents to your local church or community to further God's kingdom, similar to how the Israelites contributed to the Tabernacle's construction?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:1-11
This passage details God's calling and equipping of Bezalel and Oholiab for the work of constructing the Tabernacle, emphasizing the divine inspiration behind the craftsmanship.

Hebrews 9:1-10
This New Testament passage describes the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, drawing a parallel to the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the altar, as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

1 Kings 7:45
This verse describes the bronze work done by Hiram for Solomon's Temple, showing continuity in the use of bronze for sacred purposes in Israel's worship practices.