Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Exodus Bible Study Notes- Chapter 25


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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