Numbers 7:1

On the day Moses finished setting up the tabernacle, he anointed and consecrated it and all its furnishings, along with the altar and all its utensils.

Study Bible

On the day Moses finished setting up the tabernacle,

This phrase marks a significant moment in Israel's history, as the tabernacle was the central place of worship and God's dwelling among His people. The completion of the tabernacle followed detailed instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25-31). The tabernacle's construction was a communal effort, involving contributions and skilled labor from the Israelites (Exodus 35-40). This event signifies the transition from the Israelites' nomadic lifestyle to a more structured form of worship. The tabernacle served as a precursor to the Temple in Jerusalem, highlighting the importance of a designated holy space for worship.

Exo 40:17 So the tabernacle was set up on the first day…
Exo 40:33 And Moses set up the courtyard around the tabernacle…
Exo 39:32 So all the work for the tabernacle was completed.…

he anointed and consecrated it and all its furnishings,

Anointing and consecration were essential for setting apart the tabernacle and its furnishings for holy use. Anointing with oil symbolized the presence and blessing of God, and it was a common practice for sanctifying priests, kings, and sacred objects (Exodus 30:22-29). The act of consecration involved dedicating the tabernacle to God's service, ensuring that it was pure and holy. This process reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness, where God calls His people and their worship practices to be distinct from the surrounding nations (Leviticus 20:26).

Exo 40:9-11 Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle…
Lev 8:10-11 Moses took the anointing oil and anointed the tabernacle…
Exo 30:26-29 Use this oil to anoint the Tent of Meeting,…

along with the altar and all its utensils.

The altar was central to the sacrificial system, which was a key aspect of Israelite worship. Sacrifices offered on the altar were a means of atonement and fellowship with God (Leviticus 1-7). The utensils used in the tabernacle, such as bowls, basins, and tongs, were also consecrated, emphasizing the meticulous care required in worship. This attention to detail underscores the reverence and obedience expected in approaching God. The altar and its sacrifices foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the sacrificial system through His death and resurrection (Hebrews 9:11-14).

Exo 40:10 Anoint the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils;…
Exo 27:3 Make all its utensils of bronze—its pots for removing ashes…
Exo 29:36-37 Sacrifice a bull as a sin offering each day for atonement.…

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and guide them through the wilderness. In this verse, Moses is responsible for setting up, anointing, and consecrating the tabernacle and its furnishings.

2. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was meticulously constructed according to God's instructions and served as the center of worship and sacrifice.

3. Anointing and Consecration
The act of setting apart the tabernacle and its furnishings for holy use. Anointing with oil symbolized the presence and blessing of God, while consecration indicated dedication to God's service.

4. Furnishings and Utensils
These include the various items used in the tabernacle for worship and sacrifices, such as the altar, lampstand, and table of showbread, all of which were anointed and consecrated.

5. Altar
A key component of the tabernacle where sacrifices were made. It was anointed and consecrated to signify its holy purpose in the worship of God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Moses' actions in setting up and consecrating the tabernacle demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's instructions. As believers, we are called to follow God's Word with precision and dedication.

Holiness and Dedication
The anointing and consecration of the tabernacle and its furnishings remind us of the need for holiness in our lives. We are to be set apart for God's purposes, living lives that reflect His holiness.

God's Presence Among His People
The tabernacle served as a tangible reminder of God's presence with the Israelites. Today, we have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, assuring us of God's constant presence and guidance.

Symbolism of Anointing
Anointing with oil in the Old Testament symbolizes the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. We are called to seek the Spirit's anointing for empowerment and service in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' obedience in setting up the tabernacle challenge us in our own walk with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives are consecrated and set apart for God's purposes today?

3. How does the concept of the tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence relate to the New Testament teaching of the Holy Spirit living within believers?

4. What are some practical ways we can seek the anointing of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives?

5. How can the process of anointing and consecration in the Old Testament deepen our understanding of Christ's sacrifice and our role as His followers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
This chapter provides a detailed account of the setting up of the tabernacle, including the anointing and consecration process, highlighting the obedience of Moses to God's commands.

Leviticus 8
Describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests, paralleling the consecration of the tabernacle, emphasizing the theme of holiness and dedication to God.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the tabernacle and its furnishings as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice, drawing a connection between the Old Testament practices and the New Covenant.