Exodus 25:40

See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.

Study Bible

See that you make everything
This phrase emphasizes the importance of obedience and precision in following God's instructions. The Hebrew word for "see" is "רָאָה" (ra'ah), which implies not just physical sight but also understanding and perceiving. It suggests a deep awareness and attentiveness to God's commands. In the context of the construction of the Tabernacle, this phrase underscores the necessity of adhering strictly to divine instructions, reflecting the broader biblical theme of obedience to God's will.

according to the pattern
The word "pattern" in Hebrew is "תַּבְנִית" (tabnith), which refers to a model or blueprint. This indicates that God provided Moses with a specific design for the Tabernacle, which was not to be altered. Theologically, this can be seen as a foreshadowing of the heavenly realities, as the earthly Tabernacle was a shadow of the heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 8:5). The precision of the pattern signifies the perfection and holiness of God, and the need for His people to approach Him in the manner He prescribes.

shown you
The verb "shown" comes from the Hebrew "הֶרְאָה" (her'ah), meaning to reveal or make visible. This implies that the pattern was not a product of human imagination but a divine revelation. It highlights the concept of divine revelation as foundational to the faith, where God discloses His will and purposes to humanity. This revelation to Moses on the mountain signifies the intimate communication between God and His chosen leader, emphasizing the importance of divine guidance in spiritual matters.

on the mountain
The mountain referred to here is Mount Sinai, a place of significant biblical events and divine encounters. Mountains in Scripture often symbolize a place of meeting between God and man, a site of revelation and covenant. Historically and archaeologically, Mount Sinai is considered a sacred location where God delivered the Law to Moses. This setting underscores the gravity and sanctity of the instructions given, as it was on this mountain that God established His covenant with Israel, making it a pivotal moment in the history of God's people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to receive the Law on Mount Sinai.

2. Mount Sinai
The mountain where God revealed Himself to Moses and provided the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle.

3. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

Teaching Points

Divine Blueprint
God provides specific instructions for His people, emphasizing the importance of obedience and attention to detail in our spiritual lives.

Faithfulness in Following God's Plan
Just as Moses was faithful in following God's pattern, we are called to adhere to God's Word and His plans for our lives.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle serves as a symbol of God's presence and His desire to dwell among His people, reminding us of the importance of creating space for God in our lives.

Heavenly Realities
The earthly Tabernacle points to greater heavenly realities, encouraging us to focus on eternal truths and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Christ.

Community Worship
The construction of the Tabernacle was a communal effort, teaching us the value of working together in unity to fulfill God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to follow the pattern shown on the mountain reflect the importance of obedience in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service align with the "divine blueprint" provided in Scripture?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God among His people apply to our understanding of the Church today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to focus on heavenly realities in our daily lives?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and unity in our local church as we work together to fulfill God's purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 8:5
This verse explains that the earthly sanctuary and its services were a shadow of the heavenly things, emphasizing the importance of following the divine pattern.

Acts 7:44
Stephen, in his speech, refers to the tabernacle of testimony in the wilderness, highlighting the faithfulness of Moses in constructing it according to God's instructions.

Exodus 26:30
Reinforces the command to build the Tabernacle according to the pattern shown to Moses on the mountain, underscoring the importance of divine guidance in worship.