What is the meaning of Exodus 35:14? The lampstand - Moses names “the lampstand” among the required furnishings because the LORD had already specified its design in Exodus 25:31-40. The people are now gathering materials for what God has revealed. - Literally, this is the seven-branched menorah, hammered from a single talent of pure gold—no symbolic shortcut, no cheaper alloy (cf. Exodus 37:17). The precision underscores that God decides how He will be worshiped. - Spiritually, the menorah foreshadows the true Light. In John 8:12, Jesus says, “I am the Light of the world.” Revelation 1:12-13 pictures Him standing among seven lampstands, affirming that what began in the tabernacle finds its fullness in Christ. - The church also carries this lampstand imagery: Revelation 2:5 warns that unfaithfulness can cause a lampstand to be removed. for light - The lampstand’s purpose is practical: it “for light.” God requires light in His dwelling because He is light (1 John 1:5). - Darkness never belongs in the holy place. In Psalm 18:28 David testifies, “You, O LORD, light my lamp; my God illumines my darkness.” - Jesus echoes this calling to believers in Matthew 5:14-16, urging us not to hide our light but to let it shine so that others glorify the Father. The tabernacle’s constant glow models continuous witness. - Obedience here is simple: God says, “Provide light,” and the people supply what He asks. We learn that worship involves both receiving revelation and responding in practical service. with its accessories and lamps - “Accessories” include tongs, trays, snuffers, and wick trimmers (see Exodus 25:38). These tools prevent soot and maintain steady flames. - Nothing in God’s house is haphazard. 1 Corinthians 14:40 reminds believers, “Let all things be done decently and in order.” - By listing every small item, Scripture shows that details matter. Luke 16:10 teaches that faithfulness in little things precedes greater trust from God. - The separate “lamps” (individual cups atop each branch) distribute light widely; in Numbers 8:2 Aaron is told to set them “so that they illuminate the area in front.” Likewise, each believer contributes unique but cooperative witness. and oil for the light - The lamps are useless without pure olive oil. Exodus 27:20 commands oil “clear, pressed,” symbolizing the Holy Spirit’s flawless supply (cf. Zechariah 4:1-6 where oil runs continually, declaring, “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit”). - Leviticus 24:1-4 requires the lamps to burn continually “from evening till morning,” portraying unceasing dependence on the Spirit, not sporadic bursts of self-effort. - In Matthew 25:1-13 the wise virgins bring extra oil, illustrating readiness for the Bridegroom. The lesson traces back to this tabernacle mandate: keep the oil stocked. - Practically, the people’s contributions of oil show that fellowship with God always costs something—time, resources, devotion—but the resulting light blesses the whole camp. summary Exodus 35:14 highlights a real golden lampstand, its tools, its lamps, and the pure oil required to keep it burning. God insists on specific obedience, continual light, careful maintenance, and Spirit-supplied fuel. The menorah points to Christ, the church, and every believer called to shine faithfully in a dark world. |
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