Exodus 39

Exodus 39:1

The Colored Curtains

In the description of the tabernacle that the LORD gives Moses in Exodus 25, the ark comes first, for it is most important to God. When constructing the tabernacle the building comes first. This means that the first spiritual lesson that the believer must learn is what the church is. A believer only comes to the knowledge of the truth when he learns to see that he is part of the church of the living God as the house of God, with the Lord Jesus as its center.

The church is “the pillar and support of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). When that is recognized, insight will come in the other parts of the tabernacle that are given in the following chapters and represent all kinds of aspects of God’s truth.

The colored curtains are called “the tabernacle”. It is as if this is the actual dwelling place of God, although that applies to the whole building. The colored curtains represent in a special way the multiple facets of the glory of the Lord Jesus, each color representing a certain aspect of His glory. In Him dwelt on earth and still dwells today in heaven all the fullness of Deity bodily (Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9) both when on earth and now still. And through the church, “the dwelling of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22), “the manifold wisdom of God” is made known (Ephesians 3:10).

See also the comments on Exodus 26:1-6.

Exodus 39:2

The Colored Curtains

In the description of the tabernacle that the LORD gives Moses in Exodus 25, the ark comes first, for it is most important to God. When constructing the tabernacle the building comes first. This means that the first spiritual lesson that the believer must learn is what the church is. A believer only comes to the knowledge of the truth when he learns to see that he is part of the church of the living God as the house of God, with the Lord Jesus as its center.

The church is “the pillar and support of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). When that is recognized, insight will come in the other parts of the tabernacle that are given in the following chapters and represent all kinds of aspects of God’s truth.

The colored curtains are called “the tabernacle”. It is as if this is the actual dwelling place of God, although that applies to the whole building. The colored curtains represent in a special way the multiple facets of the glory of the Lord Jesus, each color representing a certain aspect of His glory. In Him dwelt on earth and still dwells today in heaven all the fullness of Deity bodily (Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9) both when on earth and now still. And through the church, “the dwelling of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22), “the manifold wisdom of God” is made known (Ephesians 3:10).

See also the comments on Exodus 26:1-6.

Exodus 39:3

The Colored Curtains

In the description of the tabernacle that the LORD gives Moses in Exodus 25, the ark comes first, for it is most important to God. When constructing the tabernacle the building comes first. This means that the first spiritual lesson that the believer must learn is what the church is. A believer only comes to the knowledge of the truth when he learns to see that he is part of the church of the living God as the house of God, with the Lord Jesus as its center.

The church is “the pillar and support of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). When that is recognized, insight will come in the other parts of the tabernacle that are given in the following chapters and represent all kinds of aspects of God’s truth.

The colored curtains are called “the tabernacle”. It is as if this is the actual dwelling place of God, although that applies to the whole building. The colored curtains represent in a special way the multiple facets of the glory of the Lord Jesus, each color representing a certain aspect of His glory. In Him dwelt on earth and still dwells today in heaven all the fullness of Deity bodily (Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9) both when on earth and now still. And through the church, “the dwelling of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22), “the manifold wisdom of God” is made known (Ephesians 3:10).

See also the comments on Exodus 26:1-6.

Exodus 39:4

The Colored Curtains

In the description of the tabernacle that the LORD gives Moses in Exodus 25, the ark comes first, for it is most important to God. When constructing the tabernacle the building comes first. This means that the first spiritual lesson that the believer must learn is what the church is. A believer only comes to the knowledge of the truth when he learns to see that he is part of the church of the living God as the house of God, with the Lord Jesus as its center.

The church is “the pillar and support of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). When that is recognized, insight will come in the other parts of the tabernacle that are given in the following chapters and represent all kinds of aspects of God’s truth.

The colored curtains are called “the tabernacle”. It is as if this is the actual dwelling place of God, although that applies to the whole building. The colored curtains represent in a special way the multiple facets of the glory of the Lord Jesus, each color representing a certain aspect of His glory. In Him dwelt on earth and still dwells today in heaven all the fullness of Deity bodily (Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9) both when on earth and now still. And through the church, “the dwelling of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22), “the manifold wisdom of God” is made known (Ephesians 3:10).

See also the comments on Exodus 26:1-6.

Exodus 39:5

The Colored Curtains

In the description of the tabernacle that the LORD gives Moses in Exodus 25, the ark comes first, for it is most important to God. When constructing the tabernacle the building comes first. This means that the first spiritual lesson that the believer must learn is what the church is. A believer only comes to the knowledge of the truth when he learns to see that he is part of the church of the living God as the house of God, with the Lord Jesus as its center.

The church is “the pillar and support of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). When that is recognized, insight will come in the other parts of the tabernacle that are given in the following chapters and represent all kinds of aspects of God’s truth.

The colored curtains are called “the tabernacle”. It is as if this is the actual dwelling place of God, although that applies to the whole building. The colored curtains represent in a special way the multiple facets of the glory of the Lord Jesus, each color representing a certain aspect of His glory. In Him dwelt on earth and still dwells today in heaven all the fullness of Deity bodily (Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9) both when on earth and now still. And through the church, “the dwelling of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22), “the manifold wisdom of God” is made known (Ephesians 3:10).

See also the comments on Exodus 26:1-6.

Exodus 39:6

The Curtains of Goats’ Hair

The glory of Christ and its manifestation by the church is seen only by those who enter the sanctuary, which are the priests. The world doesn’t see anything of it. The curtain of goats’ hair is not seen either by the priest or by the people outside. But the priest knows it is there. The New Testament priest also knows the meaning of it. It speaks of the separation from the world. The truth of the separation from the world is also seen only by those who live in the presence of God.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:7-13.

Exodus 39:7

The Curtains of Goats’ Hair

The glory of Christ and its manifestation by the church is seen only by those who enter the sanctuary, which are the priests. The world doesn’t see anything of it. The curtain of goats’ hair is not seen either by the priest or by the people outside. But the priest knows it is there. The New Testament priest also knows the meaning of it. It speaks of the separation from the world. The truth of the separation from the world is also seen only by those who live in the presence of God.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:7-13.

Exodus 39:8

The Curtains of Goats’ Hair

The glory of Christ and its manifestation by the church is seen only by those who enter the sanctuary, which are the priests. The world doesn’t see anything of it. The curtain of goats’ hair is not seen either by the priest or by the people outside. But the priest knows it is there. The New Testament priest also knows the meaning of it. It speaks of the separation from the world. The truth of the separation from the world is also seen only by those who live in the presence of God.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:7-13.

Exodus 39:9

The Curtains of Goats’ Hair

The glory of Christ and its manifestation by the church is seen only by those who enter the sanctuary, which are the priests. The world doesn’t see anything of it. The curtain of goats’ hair is not seen either by the priest or by the people outside. But the priest knows it is there. The New Testament priest also knows the meaning of it. It speaks of the separation from the world. The truth of the separation from the world is also seen only by those who live in the presence of God.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:7-13.

Exodus 39:10

The Curtains of Goats’ Hair

The glory of Christ and its manifestation by the church is seen only by those who enter the sanctuary, which are the priests. The world doesn’t see anything of it. The curtain of goats’ hair is not seen either by the priest or by the people outside. But the priest knows it is there. The New Testament priest also knows the meaning of it. It speaks of the separation from the world. The truth of the separation from the world is also seen only by those who live in the presence of God.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:7-13.

Exodus 39:11

The Coverings

The covering of goats’ hair is covered with a covering of rams’ skins dyed red. That covering was also not seen either by the priest inside or by the people outside. But here too the priest knows it is there and the New Testament priest knows its meaning. It has everything to do with dedication to God. It is the counterpart of the goats’ hair covering. Separation on the one hand must be followed by dedication to God on the other. They complement each other and are both necessary for the house of God to meet the goal, namely that God can dwell in it.

The covering of porpoise skins is visible to the people. It is not beautiful, but it is useful. It protects the tabernacle from heat and storm and rain. For the world, the dwelling place of God has nothing attractive. The world as led by satan is the instrument through which he tries everything to destroy God’s building (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17). But God makes sure that the building He builds is protected from “every wind of doctrine” (Ephesians 4:14), from every pernicious influence. Our responsibility is to keep sin in doctrine and life outside the church (and our own life!) or to remove it.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:14.

Exodus 39:12

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:13

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:14

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:15

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:16

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:17

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:18

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:19

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:20

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:21

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:22

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:23

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:24

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:25

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:26

The Boards and the Bars

Each board is from the same material, they all have the same length and have the same foundation. Some boards have a special place: they are placed at the corners. All boards are held together by five bars, one of which is applied in a special way. These characteristics can be applied to believers who are all members of the church without distinction. In this context we can think of the statement of the Lord Jesus: “For One is your Teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23:8). The distinction between ‘clergy’ and ‘layman’ is alien to God’s Word.

However, there is a distinction in gifts: “To each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift” (Ephesians 4:7). Special gifts were also given by the Lord Jesus with a view to the building up of His church: “And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13). Although this is not about the church as the house of God, but as the body of Christ, we can connect growth and building (cf. Ephesians 2:21). We should not confuse pictures, but we can see them as a complement to each other.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:15-30.

Exodus 39:27

The Veil and Its Four Pillars

A veil is hung between the holy place and the holy of holies. It is called “the second veil” in the letter to the Hebrews, behind which was “a tabernacle which is called the Holy of Holies” (Hebrews 9:3). The holy of holies is the very dwelling place of God, for the ark is there. The high priest may only enter it once a year and not without blood.

For us, the way in the sanctuary is open, as the writer of the letter to the Hebrews teaches us. We may even have boldness to enter. We read: “Therefore, brethren, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh” (Hebrews 10:19-20). This way has therefore been “inaugurated” for us by the Lord Jesus. To inaugurate means to put something new into use. Christ entered the sanctuary first, as a Forerunner, on the basis of His blood.

On the basis of His blood we can now enter and do so “through the veil, that is, His flesh”. God Himself has shown that the way to Him is free by tearing the veil from top, that is from Him, to bottom (Matthew 27:51). Through the flesh of Christ, that is His body, our sins have been done away, and the way into the sanctuary has been opened for us.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:31-33.

Exodus 39:28

The Veil and Its Four Pillars

A veil is hung between the holy place and the holy of holies. It is called “the second veil” in the letter to the Hebrews, behind which was “a tabernacle which is called the Holy of Holies” (Hebrews 9:3). The holy of holies is the very dwelling place of God, for the ark is there. The high priest may only enter it once a year and not without blood.

For us, the way in the sanctuary is open, as the writer of the letter to the Hebrews teaches us. We may even have boldness to enter. We read: “Therefore, brethren, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh” (Hebrews 10:19-20). This way has therefore been “inaugurated” for us by the Lord Jesus. To inaugurate means to put something new into use. Christ entered the sanctuary first, as a Forerunner, on the basis of His blood.

On the basis of His blood we can now enter and do so “through the veil, that is, His flesh”. God Himself has shown that the way to Him is free by tearing the veil from top, that is from Him, to bottom (Matthew 27:51). Through the flesh of Christ, that is His body, our sins have been done away, and the way into the sanctuary has been opened for us.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:31-33.

Exodus 39:29

The Screen and Its Five Pillars

A screen is also hung for the entrance to the holy place. Behind this is what the author of the letter to the Hebrews calls “a tabernacle … the outer one” (Hebrews 9:2a), by which he means the first part of the tabernacle. He goes on to say of this: “In which [were] the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence; this is called the holy place” (Hebrews 9:2b). In this part, priests are allowed to go there daily to do their service.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:36-37.

Exodus 39:30

The Screen and Its Five Pillars

A screen is also hung for the entrance to the holy place. Behind this is what the author of the letter to the Hebrews calls “a tabernacle … the outer one” (Hebrews 9:2a), by which he means the first part of the tabernacle. He goes on to say of this: “In which [were] the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence; this is called the holy place” (Hebrews 9:2b). In this part, priests are allowed to go there daily to do their service.

See also the comments on Exodus 26:36-37.

Exodus 39:32

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:33

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:34

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:35

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:36

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:37

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:38

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:39

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:40

The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Cherubim

After the house is made, the furniture that will be placed in the house is made. First the ark is made, followed immediately by the mercy seat with the two cherubim. When the author of the letter to the Hebrews talks about the ark, he describes its glory by mentioning that it was “covered on all sides with gold” (Hebrews 9:4a). In that verse he mentions even more glorious things in connection with the ark, namely “a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded” (Hebrews 9:4b; Exodus 16:33; Numbers 17:8-10). He also speaks of the cherubim as “the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5).

The ark and the mercy seat and the cherubim speak of the glory of Christ and His work. By His work we can think of His work on the cross for reconciliation, in which all God’s holy demands are met, and of His work now in heaven for His people. The mercy seat has become for us “the throne of grace”, to which we may draw near with confidence, “that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

The ark, with the mercy seat upon it, is the only object in the holy of holies. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews calls the ark “the ark of the covenant” (Hebrews 9:4). With this he refers back to the ark as the meeting place between God and the people under the old covenant. His whole teaching in the letter is aimed at placing Christ at the center, the heart of the new covenant, in direct contrast to this center of the old covenant.

See also the comments on Exodus 25:10-22.

Exodus 39:41

The Table and Its Utensils

After the ark follows the making of the table for the bread of Presence. The bread is not mentioned here. This puts the emphasis on what the table represents. A table speaks of fellowship. Through the work of the Lord Jesus, fellowship is possible with God and with each other.

The table is as high as the ark. This teaches us that our fellowship is at the level of the Person and the work of Christ. Our fellowship as believers of the church consists of Him. Through Him and His work we are connected to each other. He is the characteristic of our fellowship. For we are called by God “to the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:9).

See also the comments on Exodus 25:23-30.

Exodus 39:42

The Table and Its Utensils

After the ark follows the making of the table for the bread of Presence. The bread is not mentioned here. This puts the emphasis on what the table represents. A table speaks of fellowship. Through the work of the Lord Jesus, fellowship is possible with God and with each other.

The table is as high as the ark. This teaches us that our fellowship is at the level of the Person and the work of Christ. Our fellowship as believers of the church consists of Him. Through Him and His work we are connected to each other. He is the characteristic of our fellowship. For we are called by God “to the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:9).

See also the comments on Exodus 25:23-30.

Exodus 39:43

The Table and Its Utensils

After the ark follows the making of the table for the bread of Presence. The bread is not mentioned here. This puts the emphasis on what the table represents. A table speaks of fellowship. Through the work of the Lord Jesus, fellowship is possible with God and with each other.

The table is as high as the ark. This teaches us that our fellowship is at the level of the Person and the work of Christ. Our fellowship as believers of the church consists of Him. Through Him and His work we are connected to each other. He is the characteristic of our fellowship. For we are called by God “to the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:9).

See also the comments on Exodus 25:23-30.