Exodus 37 Commentary

Exodus 37 Commentary

Picture the Tabernacle as a house. Your closet is within your bedroom which, in turn, is within your home. Having received the architectural drawings already, this chapter zooms in on the actual construction of components. Items for the closet are made. Next, items for the bedroom are also made. So we see the following.

Ark. The only item in the Most Holy Place is made. This is like your closet.

Table, Lampstand, and Altar of incense. These items are in the Holy Place and are made next. This is like your bedroom.

The Ark’s notable feature is the presence of two angelic creatures overlooking the cover. The symbolism here points to the LORD’s constant watch over His word. Remember that the Ark contained the word of the LORD in the form of two tablets of stone.

It perfectly reflects the two manifestations of the presence of the LORD in the form of a Pillar of fire by night and a Pillar of cloud by day. Later, the prophet Jeremiah would put it this way:  “You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled.” Jeremiah 1 verse 12.

It was made out of pure gold. Gold represents value.

The Table is made next. Again we can look at the picture of your house. A table is made for serving food. So even here, we can see the kitchen implements being made in addition to the table itself. Remember that Israel is making a house for the LORD! Bread would be served on this table.

Every house requires lighting. So this house is fitted with an elaborately constructed lampstand. The presence of this lampstand is a reminder of the LORD’s directive: “Let there be light”.

The Altar of Incense is made on which incense is offered. We now understand the importance of incense. It represents the prayers of the saints. Anointing oil was also made.

The symbolism in the chapter is deeply important for the saint today. It reminds us of one who is the Light of the world. He is the Bread of life. And right now, He is offering intercession on behalf of the saints. Importantly He is the Word of God as ably represented by the most important article of the Tabernacle, the Ark.

It would not be wrong to suggest that the LORD dwells among His people by His Word, the Ark. Read God’s word daily. Meditate on it. Share it. Love it.

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