Our reading today covers the building of the various components that would form the tabernacle: the Ark of the Covenant, table, lampstand and altar. Since this passage contains no narrative except for a record of the construction, I want to help you visualize what they’re building.

First, a cubit is a unit of measurement that’s about 1 ½ feet long. The tabernacle itself was 30 cubits by 10 cubits, or 45 feet long by 15 feet wide. It housed the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant and Mercy Seat would rest. As this place was filled with the presence of the LORD, only the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies to represent the people before God.

In the Holy Place stood the Altar of Incense, Table of Shewbread, and Candlestick, which were to be continually tended by the priests.

Surrounding this tabernacle was a courtyard, measuring 150 feet long by 75 feet wide. The court was bounded on each side by curtains that were 7 ½ feet tall, with an entry point at the east end. This court was the only area that non-priests could enter, and it contained the large Altar and Bronze Washbasin.

The differences between this design and contemporary temples and shrines couldn’t be more striking. First, there is no idol of Yahweh: only an Ark of Remembrance reminds Israel of their covenant with Him. Second, this Ark is mobile, always in the center of the community, wherever that community goes. When it was time to move, the LORD’s glory would lift, and every part would be taken down and transported.

And third, the Ark is surrounded by a shroud, then another. The altar is in the outer court, two stations away. The statement couldn’t be more clear: since the LORD fills the whole earth, He doesn’t need any help seeing the offerings made to Him, nor does He need to partake in them. He requires no dwelling place, but has chosen to dwell. He demands sacrifice, but has no need to be fed. The design of this tabernacle itself is a statement about the nature and character of God.

One last time, our verse for this week is Hebrews 11:24-25: By faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter, choosing rather to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.

Exodus chapters 37 and 38. Now let’s read it!