How does Exodus 26:35 connect with New Testament teachings on worship and order? Exodus 26:35 in context “Place the table outside the veil, and the lampstand opposite the table on the south side of the tabernacle. Put the table on the north side.” What the original arrangement tells us • God specifies exact placement—nothing left to human whim. • The table of bread (north) and the lampstand (south) face one another, both before the veil. • Order serves a purpose: to highlight holiness, maintain access protocol, and focus worship on God’s provision (bread) and revelation (light). New Testament echoes of worship and order • 1 Corinthians 14:33 – “God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” • 1 Corinthians 14:40 – “Everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner.” • Colossians 2:5 – Paul rejoices to see the believers’ “good discipline and the stability of your faith.” The apostolic gatherings reflect the same principle seen in the tabernacle: God-designed structure fosters reverent, edifying worship. Christ as the fulfillment of the furnishings • Table of Bread → John 6:35 – “I am the bread of life.” • Lampstand → John 8:12 – “I am the light of the world.” • Veil → Hebrews 10:19-20 – Jesus’ flesh is “the new and living way” through the veil. Because Christ embodies the symbols, New-Covenant worship centers on Him while still valuing orderly arrangement. Order in the gathered church • 1 Timothy 3:15 calls the church “the household of God… the pillar and foundation of the truth.” A household needs structure. • Ephesians 2:21-22 pictures believers “fitted together” as a temple, each stone in place. The tabernacle’s north-south precision foreshadows the Spirit’s careful alignment of gifts, roles, and practices within Christ’s body. Practical takeaways • Plan services that highlight Christ as our Bread and Light. • Value clear leadership, defined roles, and thoughtful liturgy; these reflect God’s nature of order. • Guard against chaos that distracts from the gospel. • Remember the veil is torn—access is open—but reverence remains; freedom and form are friends, not foes. • Encourage every believer to serve in his or her God-given place, so the “spiritual house” displays beauty and harmony (1 Peter 2:5). |
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