Numbers 7:1

On the day Moses finished setting up the tabernacle, he anointed and consecrated it and all its furnishings, along with the altar and all its utensils.

Study Bible

On the day
The phrase "On the day" marks a specific and significant moment in the narrative of the Israelites. In the Hebrew text, the word for "day" is "yom," which can denote a literal 24-hour period or a more extended time frame. Here, it signifies a pivotal event in the history of Israel, emphasizing the importance of the occasion. This phrase sets the stage for a moment of dedication and consecration, reminding us of the importance of marking significant spiritual milestones in our own lives.

Moses finished setting up the tabernacle
The act of "setting up the tabernacle" was a monumental task completed by Moses, as instructed by God. The Hebrew word for "tabernacle" is "mishkan," meaning "dwelling place." This was not merely a physical structure but a sacred space where God's presence would dwell among His people. The completion of the tabernacle signifies obedience to God's detailed instructions and the fulfillment of His promise to be with His people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of following God's guidance in our lives and the blessing of His presence when we do so.

He anointed it
The act of anointing, from the Hebrew "mashach," involves consecrating something for a holy purpose. Anointing the tabernacle and its furnishings set them apart for divine service. This ritual act symbolizes the sanctification and dedication of the tabernacle to God, highlighting the need for purity and holiness in worship. It reminds us of the anointing of believers by the Holy Spirit, setting us apart for God's purposes.

and consecrated it
To "consecrate" means to declare something sacred or dedicate it formally to a divine purpose. The Hebrew root "qadash" conveys the idea of being set apart. By consecrating the tabernacle, Moses was acknowledging its role as a holy place where God would meet with His people. This act underscores the importance of dedicating our lives and resources to God's service, recognizing that all we have is for His glory.

along with all its furnishings
The inclusion of "all its furnishings" indicates that every aspect of the tabernacle was to be holy and dedicated to God. Each item, from the altar to the menorah, had a specific purpose in the worship and service of God. This comprehensive consecration teaches us that every detail of our lives should be devoted to God, reflecting His holiness in all we do.

the altar and all its utensils
The "altar" was central to the sacrificial system, representing atonement and reconciliation with God. The Hebrew word "mizbeach" refers to the place of sacrifice. The "utensils" used in the offerings were also consecrated, emphasizing the sacredness of the sacrificial process. This highlights the seriousness of approaching God and the need for purity in worship, pointing ultimately to Christ's sacrifice as the fulfillment of the sacrificial system.

He anointed and consecrated them also
The repetition of "anointed and consecrated" for the altar and its utensils reinforces the thoroughness of the dedication process. It underscores the idea that every part of worship must be holy and set apart for God. This repetition serves as a reminder of the comprehensive nature of God's call to holiness in our lives, urging us to ensure that every aspect of our worship and service is pleasing to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. In this verse, Moses is responsible for setting up, anointing, and consecrating the tabernacle and its furnishings.

2. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was meticulously constructed according to God's instructions and served as the center of worship and sacrifice.

3. Anointing and Consecration
The act of setting apart the tabernacle and its furnishings for holy use. Anointing with oil symbolized the presence and blessing of God, while consecration indicated dedication to God's service.

4. Furnishings and Utensils
These include the various items used in the tabernacle for worship and sacrifices, such as the altar, lampstand, and table of showbread, all of which were anointed and consecrated.

5. Altar
A key component of the tabernacle where sacrifices were made. It was anointed and consecrated to signify its holy purpose in the worship of God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Moses' actions in setting up and consecrating the tabernacle demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's instructions. As believers, we are called to follow God's Word with precision and dedication.

Holiness and Dedication
The anointing and consecration of the tabernacle and its furnishings remind us of the need for holiness in our lives. We are to be set apart for God's purposes, living lives that reflect His holiness.

God's Presence Among His People
The tabernacle served as a tangible reminder of God's presence with the Israelites. Today, we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, assuring us of God's constant presence and guidance.

Symbolism of Anointing
Anointing with oil in the Old Testament symbolizes the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. We are called to seek the Spirit's anointing for empowerment and service in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' obedience in setting up the tabernacle challenge us in our own walk with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives are consecrated and set apart for God's purposes today?

3. How does the concept of the tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence relate to the New Testament teaching of the Holy Spirit living within believers?

4. What are some practical ways we can seek the anointing of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives?

5. How can the process of anointing and consecration in the Old Testament deepen our understanding of Christ's sacrifice and our role as His followers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
This chapter provides a detailed account of the setting up of the tabernacle, including the anointing and consecration process, highlighting the obedience of Moses to God's commands.

Leviticus 8
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, paralleling the consecration of the tabernacle, emphasizing the theme of holiness and dedication to God.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the tabernacle and its furnishings as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice, drawing a connection between the Old Testament practices and the New Covenant.