Exodus 26: The Design of the Tabernacle

I. Introduction:  Exodus 26 provides a detailed blueprint for creating a sacred dwelling place known as the Tabernacle for the Lord. It stands as a visual and tangible representation of God’s presence among His people. This layout offers valuable insights into how we can faithfully create and interact with sacred spaces in our lives today.

II. The Significance of the Tabernacle (Exodus 26:1-37)

A. The Material and Design (Exodus 26:1-14)

The elaborate description of the materials and design for the Tabernacle signifies the importance of beauty, quality, and excellence in our worship to God (2 Chronicles 3:1-5). The use of gold, silver, fine linen, and specific colors underscore God’s worthiness of our best offerings (1 Chronicles 29:2).

B. The Structure and Furnishings (Exodus 26:15-30)

The intricate structure and furnishings of the Tabernacle encapsulate God’s divine order (1 Corinthians 14:40). The Ark of the Covenant, Table of Showbread, and the Golden Lampstand are symbols of God’s covenant, provision, and enlightenment (Hebrews 9:4).

C. The Holy of Holies and the Veil (Exodus 26:31-37)

The Holy of Holies, separated by a veil, highlights the holiness of God and the gravity of sin that separates us from Him (Isaiah 59:2). Yet, it prophetically foreshadows the tearing of the veil at Jesus’ crucifixion, signifying direct access to God through Christ (Matthew 27:51).

III. The Relevance of the Tabernacle Today (1 Corinthians 6:19)

A. Our Bodies as Temples of God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

As believers, we’re called to recognize our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, to be treated with respect and holiness. This echoes the sacredness of the Tabernacle and the regard it commanded (Romans 12:1).

B. The Church as a Spiritual House (1 Peter 2:5)

The Church, as a collective body of believers, is also described as a spiritual house. We, as living stones, are built into a spiritual house, continuing the legacy of the Tabernacle in a spiritual sense (Ephesians 2:21-22).

IV. Conclusion:  The Tabernacle, as described in Exodus 26, is more than just a physical structure. It’s a profound symbol of God’s desire to dwell among His people, a reminder of His holiness, and an inspiration for sanctifying our own lives and spaces for His glory. As we reflect on this chapter, let us remember our calling to embody these sacred spaces, both individually and collectively, in our daily lives.