Page 64 - Pentateuch - Student Textbook

nations at the time of the exodus. God’s communication, while pointing to deeper spiritual truths, used
the materials of the day.
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The tabernacle was built out of the free will offerings of Israel. Specific materials were identified by God,
but the sanctuary where God would dwell was actually constructed out of offerings “from each man
whose heart prompts him to give” (25:2; 35:21, 22, 29). The response was so great that Moses had to
tell the people not to bring more. “What they already had was more than enough to do all the work
(36:6-7). The same willingness was a necessary trait in the hearts of those who had been given skills by
the Holy Spirit to craft the various parts of the tabernacle (35:25; 36:2). The tent was not made out of
slave labor. Israel had had enough of that for many years in Egypt. Their YHWH was different.

The most important piece of furniture was the Ark of the
Covenant. It was placed in the holiest part of the tent. The
ark had a lid or “atonement cover” shadowed by two
angels, one on either end. This was the exact place God
would meet Israel to give them his commands. The
“atonement cover” spoke of the need for sacrifice. Israel
was sinful. God is not. Later instructions include the
payment of a “ransom” for each Israelite at census time.
“Then no plague will come on them when you number
them (30:12).” On a very simple level, the Israelites were
taught that a payment must be made for them to come
into contact with God. (25:10-22; 37:1-9)

A table was made and bread Fig. 37: Ark of the Covenant
was placed on it every week.
The point is easy to understand as we remember Israel’s recent history. God
brought Israel out of Egypt and fed them with manna in the wilderness. The
people do not know yet that the manna will continue for another forty years,
God’s gracious provision for them. (25:31-40; 37:10-16). Unlike other nations
and their gods, God feeds them. They do not feed God. He has no need of
their food, but his people need him constantly.
Fig. 38.: Table of Showbread
An ornate lamp stand was designed to keep the
tabernacle lit during the night. God is
Israel’s light, and Israel is to be a light to the
nations. (25:31-40; 27:20-21; 37:17-24) An
altar was made and instructions given for
burning incense morning and evening.
Special ingredients were used. Whoever
made the incense for personal use would Fig. 39: Candlestick
be cut off. The incense seems to represent
the prayers of God’s people. Prayer is accepted by God and comes

Fig. 40: Altar of Incense into his presence (30:1-10, 34-38; 37:25-29).

72 The NIV Study Bible, 124.

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