Exodus 39:36

the table with all its utensils and the Bread of the Presence;

Study Bible

the table with all its utensils

The Table of Showbread stood in the Holy Place, made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold according to God’s command (Exodus 25:23–30). Its dishes, pans, bowls, and pitchers were likewise made of pure gold and used exclusively for the sacred service of presenting the bread before the Lord. Every detail testified that worship approached God on His terms, with reverence, purity, and order. The table also displayed God’s continual provision for the covenant people whom He had redeemed and brought near to Himself.

Exo 25:23-29 You are also to make a table of acacia wood…
Exo 37:10-16 He also made the table of acacia wood two cubits long,…
Num 4:7 Over the table of the Presence they are to spread……

and the Bread of the Presence;

Twelve loaves were set before the Lord, representing the twelve tribes of Israel and affirming that the whole nation stood continually before Him. Fresh bread was placed on the table each Sabbath, while the priests ate the previous loaves in a holy place (Leviticus 24:5–9). The Bread of the Presence portrayed covenant fellowship with God and His faithful provision for His people. It also anticipates Christ, the true Bread of Life, who gives Himself as the sufficient nourishment of all who come to Him in faith (John 6:35).

Exo 25:30 And place the Bread of the Presence on the table…
Lev 24:5-9 You are also to take fine flour and bake twelve loaves…
1Sa 21:6 So the priest gave him the consecrated bread,…

Persons / Places / Events

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

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

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

4. The Table of Showbread
A sacred piece of furniture in the tabernacle, holding the Bread of the Presence, symbolizing God's provision and covenant with Israel.

5. The Bread of the Presence
Twelve loaves of bread placed on the table, representing the twelve tribes of Israel and God's continual presence and sustenance.

Teaching Points

God's Provision and Presence
The Bread of the Presence symbolizes God's continual provision and presence with His people. Just as the Israelites relied on this bread, we are called to rely on Christ, the true Bread of Life, for our spiritual sustenance.

The Importance of Obedience
The meticulous construction and arrangement of the tabernacle and its furnishings demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's instructions. We are reminded to follow God's Word with precision and reverence in our own lives.

Symbolism of the Twelve Tribes
The twelve loaves represent the unity and inclusion of all the tribes of Israel in God's covenant. This serves as a reminder of the unity we have in Christ as members of His body, the Church.

Holiness and Reverence in Worship
The sacred nature of the table and the Bread of the Presence calls us to approach worship with holiness and reverence, recognizing the presence of God in our midst.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Bread of the Presence in the tabernacle foreshadow Jesus as the "bread of life" in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God are done with the same obedience and reverence as the Israelites demonstrated in constructing the tabernacle?

3. How does the symbolism of the twelve loaves of bread encourage us to seek unity within the body of Christ today?

4. What are some practical ways we can rely on God's provision in our daily lives, as symbolized by the Bread of the Presence?

5. How can understanding the significance of the tabernacle furnishings enhance our appreciation for the work of Christ as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:5-9
Provides detailed instructions on the preparation and placement of the Bread of the Presence, emphasizing its perpetual nature and the holiness of the priests who consume it.

John 6:35
Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life," drawing a parallel to the Bread of the Presence as a symbol of God's provision and sustenance.

Hebrews 9:2
Describes the layout of the tabernacle, including the table and the Bread of the Presence, highlighting the significance of these elements in the worship of God.