Exodus 25
-The LORD gives Moses instructions for the tabernacle
beginning in this section of Scripture. The instructions begin with telling the
Israelites to raise a contribution for God. As the people’s hearts are moved
shall the contribution be raised (Exodus 25:2). *Application* God’s work is
usually accomplished through His people and their generosity. He wants our
freewill offerings as demonstrations of our devotion and love for Him even in
the modern era. We are not necessarily raising the items requested here in
Exodus, but God does move our hearts to give to His causes all the time if we
care to listen to His Spirit within us. Who or what is God asking you to bless
for His Kingdom’s sake today?
-The detailed descriptions of the Ark, the table of
showbread, and the golden lampstand are given in the subsequent passages of
this chapter. These complicated instructions give us a glimpse into God’s
greatness and transcendent quality. These were to be carefully crafted items
that could be transported, which demonstrated God’s willingness to go with the children of Israel wherever
they ventured. He is not a God who leaves and forsakes. God is with us, Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14; 8:8-10,
Matthew 1:23). *Application* Christ in you, the Holy Spirit’s presence, is our
hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).
-God will speak from His mercy seat above the Ark of the Covenant.
The testimony of His Word was to be placed into the Ark itself. The word for
mercy here in the Hebrew is kaporet,
which literally means “atonement,” giving the sense of wiping away, covering
over, pacifying, making propitiation. Some of you may be familiar with the
Jewish Yom Kippur, which is the Day
of Atonement having the same basic Hebrew root for word meaning. *Application*
Obviously this has significance of meaning to us as well. God gives His
commands but sits enthroned upon a mercy seat that is all about forgiveness and
peace. He has always provided a covering for those who would call out to Him in
faith (Genesis 3:21; 6:14, Romans 10:13). What a gracious God we serve!
-So we can sum up here some incredible aspects of the LORD
shown in these worship requirements. First, in the Ark we see His presence, which
will go with them throughout their journey and bring them peacefully into His good
graces. Second, the table of showbread is significant because of His provision.
Jesus said that He was the bread of life (John 6:29-51). He is the ultimate One
who provides us with what we need in relationship with the Father. God provides!
Thirdly, the golden lampstand signifies light and a clearing away of the darkness.
Jesus also said that He was the Light of the world (John 8:12). In light we can
see the right way to go and not stumble around in the darkness. Christ is the way,
the truth, and the life (John 14:6)!
Verse to Memorize:
Exodus 25:9
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