Exodus 40:1

Then the LORD said to Moses,

Study Bible

Then the LORD
The phrase "Then the LORD" signifies a direct communication from God, emphasizing His active role in guiding the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, which underscores His covenant relationship with Israel. This divine name is a reminder of God's eternal presence and faithfulness, as He continues to lead His people. Historically, this moment is set at the culmination of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, where God's instructions are pivotal for their spiritual and communal life.

said to Moses
The phrase "said to Moses" highlights the unique role of Moses as the mediator between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew verb "amar" (said) indicates a direct and authoritative communication. Moses, as a prophet and leader, is entrusted with God's commands, reflecting the intimate relationship and trust between him and God. This moment is part of a larger narrative where Moses consistently receives divine instructions, underscoring his role as a faithful servant and leader.

You are to set up
The instruction "You are to set up" conveys a command with a sense of urgency and importance. The Hebrew root "qum" (to set up) implies establishing something with permanence and purpose. This directive is not merely about physical construction but also about spiritual preparation. It signifies the beginning of a new phase in Israel's journey, where the physical act of setting up the tabernacle is intertwined with the spiritual readiness to worship and serve God.

the tabernacle
The term "the tabernacle" refers to the portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among His people. The Hebrew word "mishkan" (tabernacle) means "dwelling" or "habitation," symbolizing God's presence with Israel. Archaeologically, the tabernacle was a tent-like structure, meticulously designed according to divine specifications. It was central to Israelite worship and community life, representing God's holiness and the means by which the people could approach Him.

the Tent of Meeting
The phrase "the Tent of Meeting" is another designation for the tabernacle, emphasizing its function as a place where God would meet with Moses and the Israelites. The Hebrew "ohel mo'ed" (Tent of Meeting) suggests a designated place for divine-human interaction. This highlights the relational aspect of God's covenant, where He desires to communicate and dwell with His people. The Tent of Meeting served as a focal point for guidance, worship, and the manifestation of God's glory.

on the first day
The timing "on the first day" indicates a specific and significant moment. The Hebrew "beyom ha'rishon" (on the first day) marks the beginning of a new month and a new phase in the Israelites' journey. This timing aligns with the Hebrew calendar, often associated with new beginnings and divine appointments. It underscores the importance of aligning with God's timing and the renewal of commitment to His covenant.

of the first month
The phrase "of the first month" refers to the month of Nisan in the Hebrew calendar, which is significant for its association with the Passover and the Exodus from Egypt. The Hebrew "chodesh ha'rishon" (first month) marks a time of remembrance and celebration of God's deliverance. This timing for setting up the tabernacle connects the past act of salvation with the present act of worship, reminding the Israelites of God's faithfulness and their identity as His redeemed people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. In Hebrew, "Yahweh" is often translated as "LORD" in English Bibles.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to guide them through the wilderness. Moses is a central figure in the Pentateuch, serving as a prophet, leader, and mediator between God and His people.

3. The Tabernacle
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of Exodus 40 involves the completion and consecration of the Tabernacle, the portable dwelling place for God's presence among the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Direct Communication
God speaks directly to His chosen leaders, emphasizing the importance of listening to His voice and following His guidance.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle remind us of the importance of obedience in our walk with God. We are called to follow His commands with precision and reverence.

The Presence of God
The Tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we should live in a way that honors His presence within us.

Leadership and Responsibility
Moses' role as a leader highlights the responsibility of those in leadership to faithfully execute God's commands and guide others in worship and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's communication with Moses in Exodus 40:1 reflect His relationship with His chosen leaders throughout the Bible?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are listening to and obeying God's instructions in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place among His people relate to the New Testament teaching of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What can we learn from Moses' leadership in terms of responsibility and faithfulness in carrying out God's commands?

5. How do the instructions and events surrounding the Tabernacle in Exodus connect to the broader account of redemption found in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions God gave to Moses for building the Tabernacle, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's specific commands.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage reflects on the significance of the Tabernacle and its furnishings as a foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work, emphasizing the continuity of God's plan from the Old to the New Covenant.

Numbers 7
This chapter describes the dedication of the Tabernacle and the offerings made by the leaders of Israel, showing the communal aspect of worship and dedication to God.