Reading the Book of Exodus, it becomes apparent that the pace of the book slows down around chapter 21. After the account of the ten commandments in chapter 20, we read about various laws that were to guide the Israelites. Not only that, but we also learn (with great detail) all about the tabernacle and all the aspects of it – the ark of the covenant, the golden lampstands, the table for bread, etc. The tabernacle was the mobile ‘worship center’ that the Levites were to set up and take down as the Israelites made their travels. It was the place where God would meet with His people. It was the place where the High Priest would offer a sacrifice for sin once a year on the Day of Atonement.
As you read Exodus 21-40, you’ll note that God gave specific instructions as to how the tabernacle was to be built. Several chapters later, we read of the construction of the tabernacle, again noting the specific details of how it was to be constructed. If a modern-day editor was to apply his trade to the Book of Exodus, I think he would lower the word count by simply stating that the tabernacle was constructed just as God instructed.
The question for us is, Why the repetitive detailed instructions? I want to suggest that the answer is connected to God’s holiness. In chapter 40, we read that the tabernacle is erected. After all God’s instructions had been followed, the tabernacle was set up and then something profound happened – “the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle” (Exod 40:34).
Obviously, the tabernacle of the Old Testament has long been irrelevant. However, consider how the New Covenant deals with God’s presence. In those who have been born again by God’s grace, the Holy Spirit takes up residence. Now consider what it means to be born again. To be born again means to be given a new heart, forgiveness of sin, and the perfect righteousness of Christ – all by God’s grace through faith in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. In other words, when we are just as God demands (positionally holy/perfect), He takes up residence in us. His Spirit indwells us, and we shine forth His glory.
Praise God that His presence and salvation in our lives doesn’t depend on our ability to obey God’s instructions perfectly, but on Jesus perfectly following God’s instructions. All our hope is found in Jesus’ finished work – in His perfect fulfillment of God’s Law.
Pastor Nate