Exodus 38:9

Then he constructed the courtyard. The south side of the courtyard was a hundred cubits long and had curtains of finely spun linen,

Study Bible

Then he constructed the courtyard.
The construction of the courtyard is a significant part of the Tabernacle, which served as the central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The courtyard was an enclosed area surrounding the Tabernacle, providing a space for the congregation to gather and for the priests to perform their duties. This construction reflects the order and precision God commanded for His dwelling place, emphasizing the importance of holiness and separation from the common world. The courtyard's design also foreshadows the separation between God and humanity due to sin, which is ultimately reconciled through Jesus Christ.

The south side of the courtyard was a hundred cubits long
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. Therefore, the south side of the courtyard measured approximately 150 feet or 45 meters. This specific measurement highlights the grandeur and significance of the Tabernacle as a place of worship. The precise dimensions underscore the importance of following God's instructions meticulously, as seen throughout the construction of the Tabernacle. This attention to detail is mirrored in the New Testament, where Jesus fulfills the law and the prophets with precision.

and had curtains of finely spun linen
The use of finely spun linen for the curtains signifies purity and righteousness, qualities that are essential for approaching a holy God. Linen was a valuable material, often associated with wealth and status, and its use in the Tabernacle indicates the reverence and honor due to God. The curtains served as a barrier, symbolizing the separation between the holy and the profane. In the New Testament, the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) signifies the removal of this barrier, granting believers direct access to God through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the courtyard.

2. The Courtyard
An integral part of the Tabernacle, serving as the outer area where the Israelites could come to worship and offer sacrifices.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the instructions for building the Tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God.

5. The Wilderness
The setting for the construction of the Tabernacle, representing a place of testing and reliance on God.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The construction of the Tabernacle courtyard demonstrates the importance of following God's specific instructions. Just as the Israelites were called to obedience, we too are called to live according to God's Word.

The Presence of God
The Tabernacle, including its courtyard, was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, we are reminded that God desires to dwell with us, and we are to cultivate a life that welcomes His presence.

Community Worship
The courtyard was a place where the community gathered for worship and sacrifice. This highlights the importance of communal worship and fellowship in our spiritual lives.

Symbolism of Purity
The use of finely twisted linen in the courtyard hangings symbolizes purity and holiness. As believers, we are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the Tabernacle relate to the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

3. How can we apply the principle of community worship, as seen in the Tabernacle courtyard, to our modern-day church gatherings?

4. What does the use of finely twisted linen in the Tabernacle courtyard teach us about the importance of purity and holiness in our personal walk with God?

5. How can the Israelites' experience in the wilderness, building the Tabernacle, encourage us in our own spiritual journeys and times of testing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 27:9-19
Provides the initial instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle courtyard, emphasizing the importance of following God's detailed plans.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, drawing a parallel between the Old Covenant practices and the New Covenant in Christ.

John 1:14
Relates to the concept of God dwelling among His people, as the Word became flesh and "tabernacled" among us, fulfilling the purpose of the Tabernacle.

1 Corinthians 3:16
Connects the idea of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place to believers being the temple of the Holy Spirit today.