Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men (Rev 21:3)

Transcription

1 Page 1 Lesson 1 - Introduction September 9, 2011 Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men (Rev 21:3) I. INTRODUCTION A. The word tabernacle is used over 320 times in the Bible, and many refer to the literal or symbolic tabernacle of Exodus. It means, tent or a temporary habitation. B. The first time the tabernacle is mentioned is in Exodus Ex 25:8-9 And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them. According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle C. The last fifteen chapters of Exodus (chapters 25 to 40) are dedicated to this topic. D. The tabernacle is referenced in Hebrews 9 and beyond as a worldly sanctuary E. The tabernacle of Exodus was a portable tent, with surrounding walls, furniture and vessels which was God s dwelling place in the midst of the Israelites. F. It was built around 1400 B.C. and was God s dwelling place for about 400 years. G. The tabernacle, furniture, and all of its details were specifically detailed by the LORD and those designs were given to Moses in Exodus (which also contain history surrounding this time period). H. 480 years after the exodus from Egypt, in Solomon s day, a permanent temple was started which would replace the tabernacle. This temple is called the house of the LORD. (I Kings 6:1) I. Another use of the word tabernacle in the Bible has to do with the temporary dwelling place of our spirit (i.e. our body). J. It is God s desire to dwell with his people. God s holiness demands certain conditions for His presence with them. The specifications of the tabernacle reflect the holiness of God and the conditions of His interaction with men. II. THE LAST TWENTY CHAPTERS OF GENESIS A. Exodus chapters 21 thru 24 are known as the book of the covenant, and include the first installment of the laws that God gave to Israel (Exodus 20 contains the Ten Commandments). B. At the end of Chapter 24, Moses goes into the Mount Sinai for forty days and nights (24:18) C. Chapters 25 thru Chapters 25 to 31 are the LORD s instructions for the tabernacle 2. Chapters 32 and 33 are the account of the Golden Calf 3. Chapter 34 records Moses returning to the Mount once again for 40 days and nights 4. Chapters 35 to 40 record the building of the tabernacle D. There are essentially three parts to the last sixteen chapters (25 to 40) 1. The instructions (25-31) for the work on the tabernacle 2. The interlude (32-34) before the work on the tabernacle 3. The implementation (35-40) of the work on the tabernacle E. The primary purpose for Moses time in the mount was to receive instructions for the tabernacle.

2 Page 2 Lesson 1 - Introduction September 9, 2011 III. THE OFFERING FOR THE TABERNACLE (Exodus 25:1-7) A. The very first thing the LORD instructed Moses, when he was in the mount, was for the children of Israel to bring an offering for the tabernacle (Ex 25:2) B. The Precept - It was to be given willingly, and every man was eligible C. The Particulars - certain items needed were listed 1. Metals - Gold, silver, and brass (3) a. Gold - a symbol of holiness and divine glory: gold does not tarnish (1) all of the furniture in the tabernacle was made of pure gold or overlaid with gold, and many of the other items were made of gold (2) gold represents the glory and majesty of God (Soltau) b. Silver - inferior to gold in value, but stronger. Silver will tarnish. It was commonly used to form money; the Hebrew word for silver is the same as the word for money. It symbolizes the ransom that God paid for man. (1) Many sockets (bases) were made of this metal (2) Trumpets were made of silver (Nu 10:2) (3) Soltau notes that silver is a picture of substitution as silver was used to pay the atonement money (Ex 30:16) (4) Silver was often used to place a price on a life (i.e. the Lord s betrayal) c. Brass - this is the scriptural symbol for judgment, as in the brazen serpent. It also portrays that which is durable or is long lasting. (1) Modern day brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, but Biblical brass would have probably been an alloy of copper and tin (i.e. bronze). This alloy was known in Egypt by 1600 B.C. (just before Moses) and in Europe by 2000 B.C. (Abraham s day) (2) Helmets, shields, pillars, and other durable Bible objects are sometimes made with brass 2. Fabrics - Blue, purple, and scarlet and fine linen and goats hair (4) a. Blue - this pre-eminent color (always first mentioned) is a heavenly color which reflects God and His love. (1) Blue symbolizes the grace and love of God (Soltau) (2) When looking at the Vail in the tabernacle, the predominant color one would first see is blue (3) The priest s robe was blue (4) Blue is a calming color b. Purple - a royal color, also a mixture of Blue and Scarlet which would portray the deity and humanity of Christ. (1) Christ wore a purple robe when mocked by the Romans (John 19:2) (2) The rich man in Luke 16:19 was clothed in purple (3) The Proverbs 31" woman wore purple (Prov 31:22) (4) Blue, purple, and scarlet are mentioned over two dozen times in Exodus, and always in that order. (a) Blue set next to Scarlet produces an unpleasant appearance, but (b) when purple is placed in between, the combination is attractive Purple is a combination of Blue and Scarlet: as a color it mediates between the two. c. Scarlet - a color like that of the blood of men; a color of man and of sacrifice and death. (1) The linen ephod and girdle were of scarlet (2) The high priest s breastplate is of scarlet

3 Page 3 Lesson 1 - Introduction September 9, 2011 (3) Rahab put a scarlet line in the window in Jericho (Josh 2:18) (4) Scarlet was a dye that was not easily washed out - hence sins as scarlet (5) Scarlet was a luxurious color worn by the wealthy. 3. Animal skins - Ram s skins dyed red, and badger skins (5) a. Ram s skins (1) Each time Ram s skins are mentioned, they are always dyed red (2) They were used as a tent covering (3) Soltau says that the Ram s skins dyed red are a portrayal of the Lord Jesus Christ as a man of sorrows and affliction who died for our sins. b. Badger s skins (1) These were external coverings to protect from weather (2) These would have had unique ability to repel water (i.e. rain) 4. Wood Shittim wood (5) a. Also known as acacia wood - it is very hard b. It is a hard, close grained timber not susceptible to insects. c. This wood was overlaid with gold, again presenting the deity and humanity of Christ (gold - God, wood - man). d. The wood added stability to the structure but was so plentiful as to be without significant price or value 5. Oil, spices (6) a. Oil often used to refer to, or portray the Holy Spirit b. Spices - significant as they reflect aspects of Christ (i.e. myrrh shows the bitterness of his sufferings). 6. Onyx stones, other stones (7) a. There is much symbolism regarding these stones which we will study later in this class. D. The Purpose - a sanctuary so that the LORD would dwell among His people (8) E. The Pattern - details would be given for each aspect of the tabernacle (9) IV. HENRY SOLTAU A. Some of the most popular books on this subject are written by a man named Henry W. Soltau. His books are considered the classic works on the tabernacle. B. Soltau was born in 1805 in England. C. He studied at Cambridge, and attended church regularly, but became disillusioned and gave himself to life s pleasures rather than serving God. D. In 1837, at the age of 32, he got right with God. E. He wrote and published a number of books, and was affiliated with the Plymouth Brethren. F. He was recognized as an excellent teacher and author. G. In 1860 he began losing his eyesight, and his death came in July of 1875 at the age of 70. H. We recommend Henry Soltau s books, including The Tabernacle: The Priesthood and The Offerings. While we do not agree with all of his doctrine, his study is well done and he has much insight into the details of the tabernacle.

4 Page 4 Lesson 1 - Introduction September 9, 2011 Homework 1 Name: 1. What is the meaning of the word tabernacle? 2. What are some other words (synonyms) for tabernacle? 3. Why did God want Israel to make Him a sanctuary? 4. In about what year was the tabernacle first built? 5. What is the nickname of Exodus chapters 25 to 40? 6. Give a brief one level outline of Exodus chapters 25 to 40 a. b. c. d. 7. For each of the following items, indicate (very briefly) what they symbolize a. Gold b. Silver c. Brass

5 Page 5 Lesson 1 - Introduction September 9, 2011 d. The Color Blue e. Purple f. Scarlet g. Ram s Skins h. Wood (Acacia) i. Oil j. Spices 8. Write a brief biography of Henry Soltau, and explain why his work is important to this course.

6 Page 6 Lesson 2 - The Ark September 25, 2011 Exodus 25:10 And they shall make an ark... I. THE ARK A. The ark is mentioned over 100 times in the Bible, first in Exodus 25:10 and last in Rev 11: It is addressed by several names: a. Ark of the Testimony (14 times) (1) also Ark of His Testament (2) also Ark of Testimony b. Ark of the Covenant (41 times) c. Ark of the LORD (35 times) d. Ark of God (33 times) B. The word ark means chest a box in which to keep goods C. Only the Ark was placed in the Tabernacle area known as the most holy place. D. It contained the law, written on tables of stone, along with other objects II. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ARK OF THE COVENANT (Ex 25:10-16) A. Materials 1. Wood - Constructed of Shittim (acadia) wood (10) 2. Gold - Overlaid with pure gold within and without (11) B. Size (external dimensions most likely) 1. Length Two and one half cubits 1 or about four and one half feet (10) 2. Width - One and one half cubits or about two and a half feet (10) 3. Height - Same as width - about two and a half feet (10) 4. Inside space would have been less than one cubic yard C. Construction and Design Wood - portrays the nature of Christ as man Gold - portrays the nature of Christ as deity Stone tables - God s expectations for man the law Mercy seat - that which separates man from the penalty of God s law 1. Crown of gold round about a crown is a border or molding (11) a. Adds ornamentation and also strength 2. Four rings of gold on its corners - to make it portable (12) a. The ark itself was not to be handled or touched 3. Wooden staves (poles) overlaid with gold - to carry the ark without touching it (13-14) a. The staves were to be left in place (15) b. When the temple was completed (in about 950 B.C.), the staves were drawn out (II Chron 5:7) c. The Tabernacle and Ark were in use for well over 500 years (Acts 13:17-21) D. Contents 1. The testimony which I shall give thee. (16, 21) 2. Some believe the testimony is the ten commandments, and others think it is something else. We tend to believe it was the tables of stone containing the commandments. 1 A scriptural cubit was the length from a man s elbow to the end of his middle finger. In the author s case, that is about 20 inches. The scriptural cubit was considered as long as 22 inches, but 18 inches is often used.

7 Page 7 Lesson 2 - The Ark September 25, 2011 III. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE MERCY SEAT (Ex 25:17-21) A. The word for mercy seat comes from the Hebrew word for Atonement (Kippur) 1. The Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur means day of atonement a. On this day, the priest would sprinkle blood on the mercy seat seven times b. It is the holiest day of the year; This year (2011) is it on Oct 7-8 B. Unlike the Ark, the Mercy Seat was not overlaid with gold, but was made of pure gold. C. Its size was the same as the top of the Ark (17) D. It was to be accompanied by two cherubim of beaten gold, placed in the two ends of the mercy seat. 1. Cherubim is the plural of cherub, first mentioned when the Garden of Eden was protected by them in (Gen 3:24) 2. The Cherub of the Bible has nothing to do with the childlike winged creatures seen in modern art. 3. The Bible refers to the space between the Cherubim as the dwelling place of God. 4. We know they have wings (Ezek 10:5), hands (10:7), faces which are different from men (10:14) - also see Ex 25:20 5. They are the living creatures that Ezekiel saw by the river Chebar (Ezek 10:20) 6. It is suggested these creatures have the task of protecting the holiness of the LORD E. The Cherubim were to be attached to or part of each end of the mercy seat (19). F. They were to face each other with their wings stretched forward (20) G. The mercy seat was to be positioned above the ark as a covering. (21) IV. THE PURPOSE OF THE MERCY SEAT (Ex 25:22) A. It was a meeting place And there I will meet with thee B. It was a place where God and man could speak to one another I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat C. It was a picture of God s throne room in heaven from between the two cherubims which are upon the ark of the testimony D. It was a place of commandments and guidance...of all things which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel. V. THE FIGURES AND SYMBOLS OF THE ARK AND MERCY SEAT A. The God dwells at the seat of mercy. 1. His mercy endureth forever (Psalm 118:1, 2, 3, 4) 2. The first man to ever mention mercy, or be an example of mercy in the Bible was Lot (Gen 19:19). Mercy does not require worthiness! B. The two Cherubim portray the holiness of God (see Ezekiel), coexistent with His mercy. C. Without the mercy seat and ark, all the other vessels and furniture were of no use. The mercy seat and ark were the center of attention. Everything focused on this object. D. The Ark and Mercy Seat are called the throne of God s glory in Israel (Soltau) E. The Ark and Mercy Seat, as a whole, typify the Lord Jesus Christ as the one mediator between God and man. (Soltau) 1. He fulfilled all righteousness 2. He bore the curse of the law 3. He stands in the presence of God making intercession for us (Heb 9:24) F. As the LORD, dwelling between the Cherubim, would look down to see the law, His view is first drawn to the blood on the mercy seat. That blood separates the law from its effect upon men (condemnation). The blood is the proof of God s mercy. G. The ark, the mercy seat, the law, the sacrificial blood, the presence of God, and the Cherubim are all patterns of things in heaven (Heb 9:23), figures of the true (Heb 9:24).

8 Page 8 Lesson 2 - The Ark September 25, List four scriptural names for the Ark. a. b. c. d. 2. What does the word ark mean? HOMEWORK Name: 3. List all of the materials from which the Ark was constructed, and what they symbolize. 4. What were the dimensions of the ark, in cubits? 5. What is a cubit? 6. Why were staves to be used, and when were they removed? 7. What Hebrew word is the source of the word mercy seat? 8. What are Cherubim? 9. In relation to the mercy seat, where did God dwell? 10. According to Hebrews 9:23-24, what are the ark, mercy seat, law, etc.?

9 Page 9 Lesson 3 - The Table, Shewbread & Candlestick October 2, 2011 Ex 25:23 Thou shalt also make a table Ex 25:31 And thou shalt make a candlestick I. THE TABLE AND SHEWBREAD (Exodus 25:23-30) A. The Materials (23, 24) 1. Accacia wood - same as was used for the Ark 2. Gold overlay - again, same as the Ark B. The Dimensions (23) 1. About three feet long (two cubits) by one and a half feet wide (one cubit) and just over two feet tall (one and a half cubits). 2. The height of this table is almost exactly the optimum height for a dining table of our day 29 inches. 3. This is the same height as the ark, before the mercy seat is placed on top of it. C. The Construction (24-28) 1. Border and gold crown around the top - for strength and beauty. 2. Four rings for the carrying staves (26-27) 3. Wood staves, over laid with gold, just like those for the ark D. The Vessels dishes, spoons, dish covers, bowls All pure gold (29) E. The Shewbread (see Lev 24:5-9) 1. This bread was made of fine flower and oil, and was replaced each Sabbath Day. It was unleavened - a picture of sinlessness 2. Shew means, in plain sight or out front. 3. Twelve loaves were placed on the table in two rows of six - one loaf for each tribe. The exact arrangement is not clear. 4. When replaced weekly, the priests were to consume these loaves in the holy place 5. Each row was sprinkled with frankincense a. Frankincense is associated with the name of God (Mal 1:11) and prayer b. When burnt, frankincense has a distinct and very pleasant and sweet odor c. It was one of the three gifts brought by the wise men (Mt 2:11) 6. It was to be continually present (Ex 25:30) in the holy place F. The Portrayal 1. John 6:35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. 2. John 6:41 The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. G. The Purpose (30) 1. A table is used for one of several functions a. To put things within reach and protect them b. For the presentation of a meal c. As a place of communion and fellowship 2. The table itself is not the important object, but rather what is placed upon it. a. It was the presence of the bread, a picture of Christ the Bread of Life, that was important. b. John 6:51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever II. THE CANDLESTICK (Exodus 25:31-39) A. The Material (31) Pure Gold 1. Nothing but holiness and deity is represented 2. It is the deity of Christ that lights the world, not the humanity. 3. A talent of gold was to be used (about 90 pounds). (39) Frankincense Tree

10 Page 10 Lesson 3 - The Table, Shewbread & Candlestick October 2, 2011 B. The Design of the Candlestick (31-37) 1. The Parts a. Shaft (31) - the word used here is also used to describe a man s thigh. It is the base and support of the candlestick. b. Six Branches (32) - same as the word stalk. The parts which separate from the main shaft of the candlestick. A Knop c. Bowls (33) like an almond blossom - in the shape of a cup. These each consist of a knop and flower (1) Knops - similar to a knob. An enlargement of the branch located below the bowls. There were multiple knops on each branch (2) Flowers - the cup shaped top of the branch, or decoration in mid-branch. 2. Seven lamps go in the candlestick (37), indicating the number of stems on the candlestick. Seven is a number of perfection or completion (i.e. no other light was needed). C. The Accessories (38) 1. Tongs and snuff dishes all of pure gold 2. That which is holy should be attended to and accompanied by holiness D. The Purpose - Without this light, the Holy Place would have been dark. E. The Portrayal 1. John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. 2. John 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. 3. John 1:4-5 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. 4. Rev 21:23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. 5. I John 1:6-7 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. F. The value of the candlestick today would be about 1500 ounces of gold or over 2.4 million dollars III. REPRESENTATION OF THE TABLE, SHEWBREAD, AND CANDLESTICK A. The Lord Jesus Christ is portrayed in the shewbread and the candlestick. He is the bread of life and the light of the world. B. God makes Jesus available to us (bread on a table) and we partake of Him (spiritually, not literally) in order to have eternal life. C. Jesus is the light of the world and the light of life. Without Him, men walk in darkness. D. Gold (deity; holiness) and the number seven (completeness) all represent the deity, holiness, and all sufficiency of the Lord Jesus Christ. E. A table is a place of communion and fellowship. The Lord s table (I Cor 10:21) is only for those who do not fellowship at the table of devils. F. Each of the items in the holy place portray the Lord Jesus Christ in a different way, but all portray that we must go through Him in order to enter the presence of God (i.e. the Most Holy Place). G. The materials, dimensions, and design of these objects were each specified by God, were not to be compromised or changed, and were to be followed precisely (Ex 25:40). Access to the presence of God must be accomplished exactly as He indicated, with no variation.

11 Page 11 Lesson 3 - The Table, Shewbread & Candlestick October 2, 2011 HOMEWORK 1. Which of the items in the holy place were made of pure gold? Name: 2. What does pure gold represent? 3. What was to be placed on top of the table, and how was it to be arranged? 4. Using scripture, show how the bread is a representation of the Lord Jesus Christ. 5. What is a table used for, and what does it portray in regard to the existence of a table in the holy place? 6. Why did staves need to be built to accompany the table? 7. What items were in the Holy of Holies? 8. What passage in the Bible gives details regarding the Shewbread? List several of those details. 9. What is a knop? 10. What was the purpose of the Candlestick?

12 Page 12 Lesson 3 - The Table, Shewbread & Candlestick October 2, How does the Candlestick represent the Lord Jesus Christ? List one or two proof text references with your answer. 12. What materials were the candlestick to be made of? 13. Why would the table be of wood and gold, but the candlestick be of pure gold? 14. What other table do those who have fellowship at the Lord s table want to avoid? 15. At the end of Chapter 25, what specific instruction did God give regarding the making of the candlestick and other items? 16. List the four items that are to be built according to Exodus Chapter 25, and briefly tell what each one represents or portrays. a. b. c. d.

13 Page 13 Lesson 4 - The Tabernacle October 9, 2011 Ex 26:1 Moreover thou shalt make the tabernacle... I. INTRODUCTION A. Exodus 26 provides the instructions for the building of the tent (tabernacle) which was to contain and cover the ark, mercy seat, candlestick, table, and altar of incense. B. This tabernacle had walls of animal skins, a dividing partition (veil) which separated it into two rooms, and a roof. C. There are countless artists conceptions of the tabernacle, and many different ideas about how it looked. We really have no way of knowing for sure. II. THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE TABERNACLE - CURTAINS (Ex 26:1-15) A. The First Covering - Ten Curtains (26:1) 1. Made of fine twined linen a. Fine twined linen is mentioned 20 times, and only in Exodus b. The curtains, veil, hanging, court hangings, gate hanging, ephod, girdle, and breastplate were all of this material. c. Soltau points out (The Tabernacle, page 145) that fine linen is an exhibition of the glory of the son of God, full of grace and truth. d. The word fine twined is a Hebrew word meaning twisted as something that is woven is twisted to provide consistency and strength. e. The first mention of linen in the Bible is in Gen 41:42 where Joseph was arrayed in linen when Pharaoh promoted him. Joseph was a picture of Christ, making linen a symbol of Christ s glory and royalty as the Father promotes Him. 2. Color was Blue, purple, and scarlet as seen previously (26:1) Badger Skin beside a Coke can 3. Cunning work they were laboriously and carefully made. Work worthy of the adorning of God s Son should be carefully and properly made. 4. Dimensions - 28 cubits by 4 cubits (about 45 feet by 6 feet) (2) a. Total size would be 30 by 45 feet (approx) b. Total area is 2700 square feet 5. Connected in groups of five (total width about 33 feet) (verse 3) a. Two of these groups would be made b. Total size would then be 60 by 45 feet (approx) 6. Fifty gold loops and hooks in the edge of each curtain. If these were in the 6 foot edge, they would be about one and a half inches apart. (5-6) B. The Second Covering - Curtains of Goat s Hair (26:7) 1. Goats were a sacrificial animal (Exodus 12:5) and goat s hair is said (by Soltau) to reflect the death of the Lord Jesus Christ as an offering for sin. 2. Eleven, instead of ten (as in the Fine Linen Curtains) (Ex 26:7) 3. Larger Dimensions - 30 cubits by 4 cubits or about 50 feet by 6 feet) (verse 8) 4. Two sets - one of five and one of six curtains (9) a. The extra curtain is doubled (folded in half) in the front of the tent (9) 5. Fifty connecting brass loops and hooks in each curtain edge (just as the other, but brass)

14 Page 14 Lesson 4 - The Tabernacle October 9, 2011 (Ex 26:10-11) 6. The excess length hangs over the back side (maybe 5 feet - or 50 minus 45) (12) C. Covering for the tent of ram s skins and another of badger s skins (26:14) 1. A third and fourth covering over the first two - a type of outer skin 2. Four layers in total 3. The outer covering would have had very good water repelling qualities. 4. If the average badger is about 4 square feet in skin size, that s a lot of badgers to cover this tabernacle (around 700). III. CONSTRUCTION OF THE TABERNACLE - THE STRUCTURE (Ex 26:15-26) A. Boards of wood standing up (26:15) 1. There are vertical supports 2. Each one is about 15 feet long and about two and a half feet wide. (16) 3. Each has two tenons a. The word tenon is the same as the Hebrew word for hand (i.e. it has fingers). b. A modern day mortise and tenon joint consists of a slot (mortise) and an insert (tenon) for that slot. c. The mortises in the tabernacle were sockets of silver (19) - 2 per board. 4. There were 20 boards on the South Side (verse 20) and north side (total width of about 50 to 60 feet on each side) 5. There were 6 boards on the East and West side (about 15 feet wide on each side) (22) 6. The corners had their own boards. 7. If the total size of the curtains was 60 by 45 feet, and the height of the walls was 15 feet, then the floor size would be 45 by 15 if one end was covered by curtains and the other end by a door hanging (as seen in verse 36). 8. The wood is overlaid with gold (29) B. Bars of wood (26:26) 1. These were parallel to the ground running through rings in the boards to provide structural integrity (in a cris-cross pattern). (29) C. The Veil (26:31) 1. Fine twined linen with blue and purple and scarlet with pictures of cherubims woven into the fabric (31) 2. Four individual pillars used to hold up the veil with hooks and sockets (32) a. Again, wood overlaid with gold D. The two compartments (26:33) 1. The veil divided the tabernacle into two compartments 2. It is expected that the Most Holy Place was a 15 foot cube, and the Holy place was 30 feet long, 15 feet wide, and 15 feet high. E. The door hanging (26:36) 1. This was the tent door, and was supported just like the veil but with five pillars. 2. It was wrought with needlework unlike the veil. 3. This was located on the East end of the tabernacle F. The arrangement 1. The ark, and mercy seat were alone together in the Most Holy Place 2. The table (on the right) and candlestick were placed in the outer room. 3. There is a third item, known as the altar of incense which is not described until Exodus 30 which was to be placed directly in front of the veil.

15 Page 15 Lesson 4 - The Tabernacle October 9, 2011 IV. THE SYMBOLISM OF THE TABERNACLE A. There is no doubt that each element of the design of the tabernacle has a specific meaning to the LORD. The tabernacle s orientation is even specified (facing East). B. It is difficult to understand which elements were meant to be symbolic, and which were meant to be functional (i.e. the structural soundness), but surely God gave the plan with both in mind. C. Some elements of the construction suggest symbolism which may or may not be supported by other scriptural evidence. 1. The wood used in the construction is known by some as indestructible wood. The wood is likely a portrayal of Christ s humanity, but He knew no sin (corruption). 2. Goat s hair denotes the Lord Jesus as the offering for our sin (Soltau). 3. Ram s skins dyed red portray an outward aspect of Christ as a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief who was born to die (hence the color of blood) according to Soltau. 4. Badger s skins are said to reflect the aspect of Christ as having no form nor comeliness (Soltau) 5. The fourfold covering over the tabernacle and the presence of four pillars supporting the veil seem to magnify the number four. a. There were four rivers that went out of Eden (Gen 2:10) b. There are four gospels (Graphic found at

16 Page 16 Lesson 4 - The Tabernacle October 9, 2011 c. Hartill calls four the creation number and declares it representative of God s creation called earth. 6. The portable nature of the tabernacle structure reflects the temporary nature of the body God has given man, and the fact that we are not here to stay forever. 7. The temporary nature of the tabernacle reflects the temporary nature of the service of the tabernacle which would be replaced with the permanent offering of the Lord Jesus Christ, making the tabernacle obsolete. D. Some elements certainly pertain to function 1. Badger s skin is waterproof and are very durable 2. Shittim wood does not rot 3. The candlestick provided light by which the priest could see 4. The entire structure could be disassembled and therefore transported 5. The existence of a waterproof structure would protect the contents and allow the priests to serve in spite of the weather.

17 Page 17 Lesson 4 - The Tabernacle October 9, 2011 H O M E W O R K Name: 1. What portion of the entire tabernacle enclosure is described in this chapter? 2. What were the approximate dimensions of the Most Holy Place? 3. What item(s) were to be placed in the Most Holy Place? 4. What was the approximate dimension of the Holy Place? 5. What items were to be placed in the Holy Place? 6. What separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place? 7. How was it supported (what held it off the ground?)? 8. How many coverings were over the tabernacle, and what were each of them?

18 Page 18 Lesson 5 - The Altar, Court, and Oil November 6, 2011 Exodus Chapter 27 I. THE BRAZEN ALTAR A. This item was to be located in the outer court, between the entrance and the Holy Place. B. An altar was first mentioned in Genesis 8:20 when Noah built one after the flood. 1. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob also built altars. C. The word altar comes from a Hebrew word which means, to slay. It is any structure upon which sacrifices are offered. 1. The English word altar is from a root word which implies altitude or height. 2. The reason may be that the odor of the offering would rise up to heaven, hence the idea of height. D. This particular altar (the brazen altar) was also known as the altar of burnt offering. 1. The grate was in place to facilitate the burning of offerings, so that the fire could fall down and air could rise to mix with the fuel. 2. Another designation of this altar is the altar by the door of the Tabernacle or the altar by the tent of the congregation. (See Ex 40:6 and 40:29) 3. This altar is distinguished from the golden altar or altar of incense which was located inside the Holy place in front of the veil. a. That altar signified the prayers of the saints before God s throne, as is easily seen in Rev 8:3. E. The altar was encountered first when the outer court was entered, standing between the door, the laver, and the entrance to the Holy place. 1. This signifies that only by a sacrifice can the way to God be made available. 2. It has been this way throughout history. a. In the garden, an animal was slain to cover the sins of Adam and Eve b. A lamb was slain when the death angel passed over the houses in Egypt c. At Calvary, the Lord was slain for our sins d. Even pagan religions have altars and sacrifices which mimic the truth. 3. Christ, as our sacrifice bore our sins, and suffered the wrath of God for us II. CONSTRUCTION OF THE ALTAR (Exodus 27:1-8) A. The primary construction material is again, acacia wood, overlaid with brass. (1) 1. In Naples, a local inhabitant said that the acacia tree is very prolific and was taking over areas that had been previously occupied by native trees. 2. The brass (a symbol of judgment), would make the item somewhat fireproof. B. The size (1) 1. Seven and a half feet long, the same width, and about four and a half feet tall. 2. This would have been large enough to handle cattle C. The design (2)

19 Page 19 Lesson 5 - The Altar, Court, and Oil November 6, Horns on the corners - protrusions that extended from each corner a. These were to be covered in blood as the offering was made b. The word horn implies a projection (just as a musical horn projects sound). D. The accompanying vessels and instruments, all made of brass. (3) 1. Pans for ashes 2. Shovels (to move ashes) 3. Basons 4. Fleshhooks 5. Firepans E. The altar included a brass grate network, suspended in the mid part of the altar (4-5) F. The altar was transported by staves (i.e. poles) of wood overlain with brass (6) which would fit into rings on the altar (7) G. There were apparently additional specifications shown to Moses in the mount that are not mentioned here (8) III. THE COURT OF THE TABERNACLE (9-19) A. Surrounding the tabernacle (the tent that housed the Ark), and enclosed, there was a courtyard protected from view by a type of fence constructed of linen hangings. (9) B. It was supported by pillars with sockets of brass and hooks of silver (10) 1. This meant that each pillar was about 7 to 8 feet from the next C. Its orientation was such that the South and North sides were 150 long (9, 11) D. The West and East sides were half as long - about 75 feet and were supported in the same way (12-13) E. The gate (on the East end) was 20 cubits (about 30 feet) wide (16) and consisted of one hanging supported by four pillars, and on each side of the gate there were also hangings. F. All of the pillars contained silver fillets (17) G. The height of the hangings was about 7 and a half feet. (18) H. It is reiterated that all of the vessels be made of brass (19) 1. Brass (see Lesson 1) portrays the lasting judgment of God I. Application 1. There was only one entrance to the court. a. There is only one way to enter the presence of God - Jesus Christ 2. You were either inside the court, or outside, and there was a difference. Not everyone was inside. a. Not all are saved, and not all saved are church members. 3. To enter the court, you must encounter the place of sacrifice. 4. There was a wall of separation from those inside the court and those outside. a. It would be impossible to see from one area to another. b. The saved and the lost have a different view of the world, and the lost do not have a view of the tabernacle until they enter by the sacrifice. IV. THE OIL FOR THE LIGHT (20-21) A. The lam was to burn always, lit by pure olive oil (20) B. The oil was to be brought by all of Israel C. Oil is pictorial of the presence of the Holy Spirit. It is a source of light which allows one to see. Olive Oil Today Spain and Italy together, produce over 60% of the 2.9 million tons of olive oil consumed in the world each year. Greece has the highest consumption rate at over 26 liters per person per year. North Americans consume less than one liter per year.

20 Page 20 Lesson 5 - The Altar, Court, and Oil November 6, 2011 H O M E W O R K Name: 1. What is the first item or object that you would encounter when entering the court of the Tabernacle? 2. Describe the origins and meaning of the word altar. 3. What are other names used in the Bible for the Brazen Altar? 4. Describe the dimensions and building materials used for the altar. 5. Why did the altar have a gratework? 6. What was the size of the courtyard surrounding the tabernacle? 7. What two objects were inside the courtyard, other than the tabernacle itself? 8. What does the oil for the lamp portray?

21 Page 21 Lesson 6 - The Priests and Their Garments November 13, 2011 Exodus Chapter 28 I. INTRODUCTION A. Except for the first verse, Exodus 28 is entirely devoted to the garments worn by the priest. They are listed in verse 4. B. These garments were designed exclusively by God. C. These Robes and other garments are a portrayal of righteousness, judgment, and glory that we have in Christ. 1. Job 29:14 I put on righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment was as a robe and a diadem. 2. Ps 132:9 Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy. 3. Isa 61:10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. II. THE PRIESTS ARE APPOINTED (Ex 28:1) A. Exodus 28 is the first time the Bible calls the Priest s role an office. B. Many foolish men in our day believe that they can be priests. This is simply wrong. 1. God said that the Priests must be of the house of Levi (Num 8:19) 2. It is forbidden for a man to take the role of priest without being called (Heb 5:4) 3. There are no priests in the New Testament church, period! (Read the Bible) a. In the New Testament, none of the churches had priests. b. The only mention of Priests in the NT are in Acts, Hebrews, I Peter, and The Revelation - never in the epistles to the churches C. In Exodus 28:1, Aron and his sons are named as priests 1. Aaron a. Moses brother by birth, and a Levite (Amram was their father) (I Chron 6:1-3) b. Name means, bringer of light 2. Nadab - name means generous 3. Abihu - name means he is my father 4. Eleazar - name means God has helped 5. Ithamar - name means coast of palms D. Nadab and Abihu are the subject of a sad story in Leviticus In verse 1, these two sons were disobedient - offered strange fire 2. In verse 2, they were devoured by fire from the LORD and died 3. In verse 3, Moses explained why God did so, and Aaron held his peace. III. THE MAKING OF THE HOLY GARMENTS IS COMMANDED (Ex 28:2-43) A. Overview 1. The workers criteria are described (3) a. Wise hearted b. Full of the spirit of wisdom (by the LORD) 2. The garments are listed (4) a. Breastplate, Ephod, Robe, Coat, Mitre, Girdle b. There are other items mentioned later in the chapter

22 Page 22 Lesson 6 - The Priests and Their Garments November 13, The materials are named (5) 4. The instructions are given for their making a. The ephod of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and linen (6 to 14) b. The breastplate of judgment, made like the ephod (15 to 30) c. The robe (31 to 35) d. The graven plate of gold for the priest s forehead (36 to 38) e. The embroidered coat (39) for Aaron f. The coats, girdles, and bonnets for Aaron s sons (40 to 41) g. The linen breeches (42 to 43) h. The mitre is never mentioned except in verse 4 B. There were no shoes C. Notice that the most attention is paid to the ephod and breastplate 25 of 43 verses. D. Often, the purpose of a given item is named 1. The garments are for glory and beauty (2) 2. The stones on the ephod shoulders are for a memorial to the children of Israel (12, 29) 3. The bells on the robe s hem were so the priest could be heard as he ministered (35) 4. The breeches were to cover the nakedness of the priests (42) a. This is a very interesting verse. It defines the portion of the body from the loin to thigh as being in need of clothing. b. The loin is the hip, and the thigh is the part of the leg above the knee IV. THE EPHOD (Ex 28:6-14) A. This was a woven item with gems attached (6) B. It included shoulder pieces and a girdle (7-8) 1. The girdle wrapped around the waist 2. The shoulder pieces held the garment up C. Two onyx stones in gold settings, each engraved with six names of the children of Israel, adorned the shoulder pieces (9-14) 1. Onyx can be many colors, but most typically is a flesh tone. 2. It is well known for its acceptance of carving 3. The names of the twelve tribes were borne The Breastplate & Ephod on the shoulders of the priest 4. Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD... for a memorial (12) 5. On the left shoulder would be Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin. 6. On the right shoulder was Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, and Naphtali (Soltau) D. Chains were connected to the settings for the two onyx stones, as an ornament and possibly to doubly connect them to the garment. V. THE BREASTPLATE OF JUDGMENT (Ex 28:15-30) A. This woven item was about 9 inches square (16), and contained twelve stones in four rows of three stones each (17) in gold settings (20) engraved with the names of the twelve tribes (21) 1. Row one a. Sardius - Judah - Red in color (1) Potentially symbolic of the blood of Christ (who was of Judah) b. Topaz - Issachar - Rich yellow in color c. Carbuncle - Zebulun - A stone of flashing redness 2. Row two a. Emerald - Reuben - Green

23 Page 23 Lesson 6 - The Priests and Their Garments November 13, 2011 b. Sapphire - Simeon - deep blue color c. Diamond - Gad - clear 3. Row three a. Ligure - Ephraim - color uncertain, perhaps orange or red b. Agate - Mamasseh - there are many colors of agate, blues and reds typically c. Amethyst - Benjamin - violet or purple in color 4. Row four a. Beryl - Dan - Green like emerald b. Onyx - Asher - tan or brown c. Jasper - Naphtali - red B. The order of the tribes as they were arranged in their camps and in the march is herein represented. C. It was to be connected to the shoulders with gold chains and rings (23-25) D. The breastplate was bound to the ephod with a lace of blue which tied to gold rings (28) E. The breastplate of judgment had two purposes - both over the priest s heart 1. To bear the names of Israel for a memorial before the LORD (29) 2. To contain the Urim and Thummim (30) a. There is little or no good evidence as to what these actually were b. They are Hebrew words that appear only a few times in the Bible c. The words mean lights and perfection d. They were connected with finding the will of God e. Only the high priest wore them, and they were significant of the existence of a qualified high priest VI. OTHER ITEMS A. The blue robe 1. One piece with a head hole that was woven to prevent tearing (31-32) 2. The hem had golden bells interspersed with three colors of small pomegranates (33-34) 3. It was intended to be noisy (35) B. The head plate of pure gold (36-38) 1. Secured to the mitre with blue lace 2. It was necessary to his acceptance before the LORD (38) C. A linen coat, mitre, and girdle (39) 1. These were garments worn under the others D. Coats, girdles, bonnets, and breeches for Aaron s sons (40-42) E. The garments were to be worn when entering the tabernacle (holy place) and when approaching the altar, and protected the wearer from death. (43) VII. APPLICATION A. The priest of Israel was a type of the Lord Jesus Christ who is the true high priest. B. As the priest was arrayed in robes of righteousness and judgement, so is Christ. C. As the priest interceded for Israel, so did and does Christ. D. It is, again, foolish, for some to contend that God is finished with Israel, when the priest s breastplate and ephod both clearly demonstrate his primary interest in Israel. It was Israel that Christ first came to save, then the Gentiles. E. The work of the priest is the portrayal of the work of Christ who is both Priest and Sacrifice F. The garments of the priest denote the beauty, glory, holiness, judgment, and bearing of Israel before God s throne that typify the Lord Jesus Christ alone.

24 Page 24 Lesson 6 - The Priests and Their Garments November 13, 2011 H O M E W O R K Name: 1. List each of the garments and items worn by the priest, and provide a brief description of how it was constructed, how it appeared, and how it was worn. Use verse references for each fact, when possible.

25 Page 25 Lesson 7 - Sanctifying the Priests (Ex 29:1-25) November 20, 2011 I. THE SANCTIFICATION OF THE PRIESTS A. Before the instructions for building the tabernacle continue in Exodus, the LORD pauses to tell Moses how the priests must be made holy for their ministry. B. The word hallowed is a stately and familiar word, but one we seldom use in everyday conversation. 1. Abraham Lincoln called the burial site in Gettysburg hallowed ground. a.... we can not dedicate -- we can not consecrate -- we can not hallow -- this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. 2. The Hebrew word kawdash is translated hallowed and is also translated sanctify, dedicate, holy, and consecrate. (Two of those words were used by President Lincoln he knew the Bible well.) 3. Hallow is used in the King James Bible 21 times. a. The last is in Luke 11:2 - hallowed be thy name in the Lord s prayer. b. Interestingly, most modern versions (which typically love to change words) leave this word alone, and translate it as hallowed. This is probably because so many people have memorized the Lord s prayer from the King James Bible. 4. Webster s 1828 Dictionary defines Hallowed as, Consecrated to a sacred use, or to religious exercises; treated as sacred; reverenced. C. The priests, who were a picture (and type) of the Lord Jesus Christ, must be specially prepared for their service as they, unlike Him, had sin in their life. D. The result of this act of hallowing the priests would be to make them suitable to perform the service of the tabernacle. 1. To be a proper picture of Christ who was holy and blameless (Heb 7:26) 2. To survive in the presence of God s holiness that he die not. Ex 28:35 II. III. THE SACRIFICE FOR SANCTIFICATION A. We know that all Old Testament sacrifices are a picture of Christ s ultimate sacrifice B. Several items were required for this sanctification (setting apart of the priest) 1. One young bullock (1) 2. Two blemish free lambs (1) 3. Three types of bread in a basked (3) a. Unleavened wheat bread (2) - leaven represents sin b. Unleavened wheat cakes mingled with oil (2) - oil represents the Holy Spirit c. Unleavened wheat wafers anointed with oil (2) 4. Christ is sinless, spirit indwelt, and anointed for the work THE SANCTIFICATION PROCESS A. The priests were to come to the door of the tabernacle and wash with water (4) B. They were to first put on the garments upon Aaron - seven items (5-6) 1. The coat (5) 2. Then the robe 3. Then the ephod 4. Then the breastplate 5. Then the girdle 6. Then the mitre (6) 7. Then the holy crown upon the mitre (6) C. While it is not specified, Soltau says that Moses was doing the work of dressing the priests as a type of the Father preparing the Son. D. Aaron s head was to be anointed with oil (7)

26 Page 26 Lesson 7 - Sanctifying the Priests (Ex 29:1-25) November 20, The Lord Jesus was God s anointed a. The Hebrew word anointed is pronounced messiah b. One Greek word for anointed is the word chrio from which the name Christ is taken. c. God anointed Jesus with the Holy Ghost and with power (Acts 10:38) E. Aaron s sons were then to be clothed (8) coat, then girdle, then bonnet. F. The Three Sacrifices of Sanctification 1. A Bullock (The sin offering) a. Aaron and his sons and placed their hand on its head (10) (1) Identification with the bullock (2) Conveyance or transference of sin to the bullock b. It is killed at the door of the tabernacle (11) (1) Death at once followed the transfer of sin (Soltau) c. The blood is placed on, and beside the altar (12) (1) To purify the altar (Heb 9:22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.) (2) Lev 8:15 show that blood has three effects (a) Purification - purging of sin (b) Sanctification - separation from sin (c) Reconciliation - removal of sin d. Certain parts of the bullock are then burned in the altar, others outside the camp (13-14) e. Upon blood, the priest learned that he was cleansed from sin, and he could then call upon the people to likewise trust in the cleansing effect of blood. 2. One Ram (15-18) (The burnt offering) a. The burnt offering is the highest sacrifice in scripture. It ascends up to heaven as a fragrance which pleases God. b. The burnt offering was first known by Noah (Gen 8:20) c. Isaac was to have been a burnt offering (Gen 22:2) and as he was a picture of Christ, so is Jesus a burnt offering for our sins. (1) Fire consumes that to which it is applied, if it is flammable. (2) The sin offering refers to the blood of Christ and the burnt offering to the death of Christ. d. Same as the bullock except the entire ram is burnt on the altar 3. The Other Ram (19-25) (The ram of consecrations) a. Killed in like manner as the first two animals b. Blood is placed on the priest s right ears and right thumbs and big toe (20) as a picture of what is to be consecrated. (1) Right ear - what one allows to be heard or listened to: hearken to the voice of God (Ex 15:26) (2) Right thumb - what one will handle: what one does. (a) The right hand is the hand of power, skill, and cunning (b) Without the thumb, the hand can do almost nothing (3) Right toe - where one goes: the path one takes. (a) God hates feet that be swift in running to mischief (Pr 6:18) c. Our body belongs to the LORD (I Cor 6:19-20) d. Blood is then sprinkled upon and around the altar (20) e. The blood is sprinkled on Aaron and his sons and their garments to hallow all of these (21) f. The wave offering

27 Page 27 Lesson 7 - Sanctifying the Priests (Ex 29:1-25) November 20, 2011 (1) The fat of the ram, a loaf, a cake, and a wafer, are all waved before the LORD (22-24) (2) Hands, filled with the sacrifice and empty of anything else (consecrated) g. These are then burned upon the altar (25-26) h. The shoulder is offered as a heave offering (27-28) 4. Seven days are required for the completion of this process (30, 35) 5. The flesh of the ram of consecration is cooked and eaten by the priests (32) along with the bread, by the door. Only the priest could do so (33) 6. That which was not eaten was to be burnt (34) 7. A bullock was to be offered each of the seven days (36-37) IV. THE DAILY OFFERINGS AND GOD S PRESENCE (39-46) A. Two first year lambs (38) 1. One in the morning: one in the evening (39) 2. Accompanied by about 2 quarts of flour mingled with one quart of oil and a quart of wine B. All these offerings took place outside (at) the door of the tabernacle (42) 1. Only through these, admission to the presence of God was possible 2. God would come out to meet and speak there. a. It is God s of mercy and grace that He meets with us 3. The tabernacle was sanctified by the glory of God, and needed no further sanctifying act. (43) C. The tabernacle, altar, and sons of Aaron were sanctified for this ministry (44) D. The dwelling place of God was with His people (45) E. All these acts and deeds demonstrate that the LORD is the God of Israel 1. He brought them forth out of Egypt (46) 2. He dwells among THEM 3. I am is the LORD their God F. Not a day went by that a sacrifice was not made. There was a continual remembrance that the lamb of God must die to pay for the sins of God s people.

28 Page 28 Lesson 7 - Sanctifying the Priests (Ex 29:1-25) November 20, Define the word hallowed. H O M E W O R K Name: 2. List the three animals and three types of bread that are required for the sanctification of the priests. List each of them with a brief description. a. b. c. d. e. f. 3. What is the Hebrew word for annointed. 4. List the three sacrifices of the sanctification process. a. b. c. 5. What are the three effects of blood? a. b. c. 6. What is the picture of blood placed on the following body parts? a. The ear

29 Page 29 Lesson 7 - Sanctifying the Priests (Ex 29:1-25) November 20, 2011 b. The thumb c. The great toe 7. Describe the daily offerings (what was offered, when, etc.). 8. Which offering could partially be eaten by the priests? 9. How many days did the sanctification require? 10. The sin offering refers to the of Christ and the burnt offering to the of Christ. 11. Why was blood sprinkled on the altar?

30 Page 30 Lesson 8 - Upon The Mount December 4, 2011 Exodus 24:12 - And the LORD said unto Moses, Come up to me into the mount, and be there... I. EXODUS CHAPTER 24 INTRODUCTION A. As Chapter 32 deals with the golden calf, it is fitting to pause and review how Moses came to be with the LORD as he is in chapters 25 through 31. B. The setting for Moses meeting with the Lord (which transpires in chapters 25 to 31) is detailed in Exodus 24:1-18 it is upon a mountain top. C. What happens on a mountain top? 1. David worshiped on a mountain top after the rebellion (II Sam 15:32) 2. The Lord prayed on a mountain top (Matt 14:23) 3. The Lord was transfigured on a mountain top (Matt 17:2) 4. John viewed the New Jerusalem from upon a mountain top (Rev 21:10) D. Why a mountain top? 1. Mountain tops are a place which is away from the crowds - a place to be alone w/ God. a. No distractions or interruptions b. It takes work to get up and down a mountain 2. It is a place which is closer to the Lord than in the valley. 3. It is a place from which one can see the world more clearly (from above). 4. It is a place of strength - one more easily defended; difficult to defeat. 5. From the mountaintop, everywhere else is downhill. E. What is a mountain top experience? 1. Knowing the presence of the Lord personally: hearing from and talking to Him. 2. It is a time when disturbances, distractions, troubles, and cares are forgotten. 3. It is a place of peace, joy, and strength (Ps 65:11) 4. Not everyone will enjoy this personal experience - some will never know it. 5. It will not last forever. II. PREPARING TO MEET WITH THE LORD (Ex 24:1-8) A. The call The LORD called Moses, Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy elders to worship afar off. (1) 1. Nadab and Abihu were Aaron s two eldest sons, he also had two younger 2. Excepting Moses, the others were to stay afar off. (2) Only Moses was to come near the LORD. 3. The people were also forbidden to go up with Moses. 4. Some are eligible for this mountain top experience, some are not. B. The communication Moses conveyed these instructions, the people promised to obey. (3) C. The consecration An altar was built and offerings were made (4-6) worship. D. The conveyance The word of God was read out loud to the people. (7) E. The completion preparations for the time alone with God were then complete. 1. Moses was called to come near. (1) 2. He gave the word of God to the people. 3. He built an alter, sacrificed and worshiped. III. THE VISION OF THE LORD (9-11) A. Note that before this vision of the LORD takes place, a sacrifice has been made. B. They [all] saw the God of Israel. (9) and they saw God (11) 1. This verse presents a problem to consider. a. John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; b. 1 John 4:12 No man hath seen God at any time.

31 Page 31 Lesson 8 - Upon The Mount December 4, 2011 c. Ex 33:18-20 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory. And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee;... And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live. 2. There is a solution to this problem. Many men have seen the Lord Jesus Christ a. John 14:9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father b. John 1:18... the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. 3. The appearance in Ex 24:9-11 is one of many times when the Son of God appears in the Old Testament - a Christophony. a. Jesus is the God of Israel b. His feet are often mentioned when He appears (Rev 1:15, Rev 2:18) C. This appearance is for the benefit of Moses, Aaron, Aaron s sons, and the seventy, but does not equate to the mountain top unique visit that Moses is called to enjoy. IV. MOSES IN THE LORD S PRESENCE ON THE MOUNTAIN TOP (12-18) A. There was an invitation to Come up. (12) B. Moses accepted and went up into the mount of God. (13) C. The elders left Aaron and the elders behind, by instruction. (14) D. Moses was alone with God and nothing to distract him (15) E. Six days transpired in the presence of God s glory, then the LORD spoke. (16) 1. Moses waited until God spoke, without departing. 2. There is a difference in knowing God s glory, and hearing God s voice (16) F. To Israel, it appeared that a devouring fire was upon the mountain top and they must have feared for Moses safety (17). G. Moses went into God s presence, and stayed forty days and nights (18) 1. He was away from friend and family for this entire time, as was God s will. H. It was Moses, alone, who was with God in the mountain top. V. THE CHRISTIAN IN THE LORD S PRESENCE AND ON THE MOUNTAINTOP A. We are promised, as believers, that the Lord will never leave or forsake us. (Heb 13:5) 1. We should all know and trust in the Lord s presence with us if we are saved. B. But, there is a difference in being in His presence and hearing His voice and being on the mountain top with Him. 1. Ps 16:11... in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. C. Some do not know the most enjoyable fellowship with God - on the mountain top. 1. It can be hindered by sin in one s life. 2. In can be missed when we do not take time out of our schedule. 3. It requires preparation, patience, and parting from other distractions. D. When we are in God s presence, the surrounding circumstances become irrelevant. Only the presence of God is known, and it consumes the observer s complete attention. E. It seems that we most often have access to this presence when we are suffering, or are in need of guidance from the LORD. F. This closest fellowship with God should be a desire of every believer, and while it will not be a continual experience, it can be known and enjoyed by those whose heart is right with God.

32 Page 32 Lesson 9 - The Altar of Incense December 11, 2011 I. LOOKING BACK AND LOOKING FORWARD A. Past lessons 1. God s call for Moses to come up Chapter 24 (Lesson 8) 2. The LORD s call for an offering - Chapter Instructions for the Ark and Mercy Seat - Chapter The Table of Shewbread and the Candlestick - Chapter The Tabernacle Chapter The Brazen Altar, Court, and Oil for the lamp Chapter The Priests and their Garments and Attire - Chapter The Sanctification of the Priests, and the Daily Offering - Chapter 29 B. Today Lesson 9, Chapter The Altar of Incense, the Laver, and the Spices - Chapter 30 C. Future lessons 1. The Gifted Worker and the Sabbaths Chapter The Golden Calf - Chapter 32 a. Notice that while the LORD is describing heavenly things, the people construct and earthly abomination 3. Moses spends time with the LORD - Chapter The broken tables of stone are replaced Chapter Moses initiates the assembly of the Tabernacle and Furniture Chapter The construction and assembly Chapters The Tabernacle is occupied by the LORD Chapter 40 II. III. THE FURNITURE IN THE TABERNACLE AND COURT A. In the Holy of Holies 1. The Mercy Seat 2. The Ark B. In the Holy Place 1. The Table of Shewbread 2. The Candlestick 3. The Altar of Incense (Exodus 30:1) C. In the Court 1. The Brazen Altar 2. The Laver (Exodus 30:18) D. The tabernacle, court, and all of the furniture is described in Exodus chapters INCENSE A. Incense is, in general, any substance burned in order to provide a pleasant odor 1. It is also known as perfume 2. The word comes from a Hebrew word for burn which is also used for the word offer and offering B. Incense is mentioned over 120 times in the KJB, only five of which are in the New Testament 1. The first time is in Exodus 25, and the second is here in Exodus 30:1 2. In the Old Testament, aside from the legitimate uses of incense, there are many references to burning incense to false Gods. (i.e. Jer 48:35) 3. Three of these are in Luke 1:9-11 and refer to the temple (Zacharias) 4. The last two are in Revelation 8:3-4 a. Re 8:3-4 And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the

33 Page 33 Lesson 9 - The Altar of Incense December 11, 2011 prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. 4 And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel s hand. 5. In addition to Revelation 8, there are two other times when incense is compared with prayer a. Ps 141:2 Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. b. Lu 1:10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. 6. In Rev 5:8, we read,... golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. 7. This altar of incense was very near where I (the LORD) will meet with thee Ex 30:6 C. The picture given by the incense is one of prayers being offered up to the LORD D. There is NEVER any literal burning of incense mentioned in the New Testament churches, but there is much prayer. IV. THE ALTAR OF INCENSE (Exodus 30:1-10) A. This altar was made of wood (1), overlaid with gold (3), 18 inches square (2) and three feet tall (2) with horns on the corners (2) and golden rings on two sides (4) for carrying. B. It came with staves (poles) of wood, overlaid with gold, for carrying (5) C. It was located just before the vail in the Holy Place (6) and before the mercy seat D. Incense was to be burnt by the priest (Aaron) every morning (7) perpetually (8) E. No strange incense was allowed (9) and sacrifices were not to be placed there (9) 1. The use of this table was specific; it was not there for any convenience. F. Once a year, the horns were to be covered with blood from the offering of atonement (10) G. The Picture of Prayer 1. It is holiness (gold) not judgment (brass) that is emphasized (3) 2. The place of prayer is where we meet with the LORD (6) 3. Prayer is a daily, morning event (7) and should never cease (8) 4. Before coming to the Mercy Seat, one must pass a place of prayer 5. The place of prayer is part of atonement for sins (10), but that is not its daily purpose a. One prays to be saved, but not continually V. THE RANSOM (Exodus 30:11-16) A. Each individual must give the LORD a ransom (12) for his soul 1. This was to prevent plague (12) B. A Ransom is a price paid for a life for the redemption of a life. 1. It is money in place of a person C. The price was 10 gerahs (13) maybe four or five dollars to us 1. A gerah was to the shekel like a nickle is to a dollar D. All those over the age of twenty were to give this offering (14) E. A persons wealth had no impact on the amount given (15) - the price of a man s life does not depend upon his net worth. F. There was an understanding of a need for atonement for the soul in this offering (15) G. It was to be used for the service of the tabernacle (16) H. Numbers 1:45 records over 600,000 over the age of 20 who would go to war, not counting the Levites (Num 1:47). If there were that many women, the annual ransom would be valued in the several millions of dollars in total. I. The picture in the Ransom 1. First, remember that Jesus gave Himself a ransom for all (I Tim 2:6). Money is not the payment for our sins. 2. Then, we know that our lives are not our own they must be bought with a price (I

34 Page 34 Lesson 9 - The Altar of Incense December 11, 2011 Cor 6:19-20, I Cor 7:23) 3. We are sinners, sold under sin (Rom 7:14) 4. This annual payment acknowledges that each man is indebted to the LORD for their life - the promise of a plague for non-payment shows this fact (plagues kill). J. The purpose for the Ransom These funds were used for the service (maintenance, upkeep, supply, etc.) of the tabernacle. VI. THE LAVER OF BRASS (Exodus 30:17-21) A. The word laver means basin this item was a wash basin. (19) B. It is not holy (gold); it is made of brass. (18) C. The hands and feet were to be clean before entering the holy place (20-21) D. This IS NOT a baptismal font. It has nothing to do with washing away sin. VII. THE ANOINTING OIL & PERFUME FOR THE TABERNACLE (Exodus 30:22-38) A. A five part fragrant oil was to be made (23-25) 1. Myrrh (12.5 pounds) a. A small thorny tree that grows in dry stony soil. When a tree wound penetrates through the bark and into the sapwood, the tree bleeds resin. Frankinsense behaves in the same manner. To harvest these resins, the trees are wounded repeatedly. 2. Sweet Cinnamon (6.25 pounds) a. Prov 7:17 mentions Myrrh and cinnamon as perfumes. Cinnamon is known for the pleasant sweet odor it emits. 3. Sweet Calamus (6.25 pounds) a. Also known as sweet flag and can be used as a substitute for ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg. Has a very sweet and pleasant odor. b. Is mentioned in Song of Solomon and Ezekiel as a valued plant, alongside cassia. 4. Cassia (12.5 pounds) a. Another fragrant spice, similar to Calamus and Myrrh 5. Olive oil (one gallon) a. Pictorial of the Holy Spirit, this also served as a liquid agent which allowed the other four ingredients to become part of the aromatic solution. B. The connection between these spices and the Lord Jesus Christ is documented in the Bible 1. Psalm 45:6 Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. 7 Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. 8 All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad. 2. This is the Psalm quoted in Hebrews 1:8 were it plainly refers to Christ C. The ointment is called holy (verse 25) and used for anointing (the Hebrew word for anointing is messiah. D. The tabernacle, ark, table, candlestick, altar of incense, altar of burnt offering, and laver were to be anointed with this ointment (26-28). They were thus identified with the Son of God as this ointment is identified with him (Psalm 45; Heb 1). E. The holiness is then communicated to that which it touches - as with Christ (29). F. Aaron and his sons were also anointed and thus consecrated (30) G. It was absolutely forbidden to reproduce this ointment (31-33) as it was unique to the Son of God and He is not to be impersonated. H. Another perfume was to be made from equal quantities of four spices (34) 1. Stacte - only mentioned here and unclear as to what this spice actually is. The Hebrew

35 Page 35 Lesson 9 - The Altar of Incense December 11, 2011 word means drops. 2. Onycha - probably the shell of a shellfish which emits a strong odor when burnt 3. Galganum - a kind of resin or gum; from a Hebrew word that means fat. 4. Pure frankincense - mentioned many times in the Bible. Known for its fragrance. I. This perfume was not mixed with oil, but was to be a very fine powder (36) and to be placed beore the testimony which was repeatedly mentioned in Exodus 25, and which placed in the ark. 1. This perfume was symbolic of the presence of the Lord (36) and was not to be reproduced (37-38).

36 Page 36 Lesson 9 - The Altar of Incense December 11, 2011 H O M E W O R K 1. What is one of the pictures that incense portrays? (Hint: offered up) Name: 2. Describe the altar of incense (its construction, dimensions, etc.). 3. What was done every morning on the altar of incense? 4. What was done once a year on the altar of incense? 5. What was forbidden regarding the altar of incense? 6. Describe the picture in the ransom. 7. What was the use of the ransom money?

37 Page 37 Lesson 9 - The Altar of Incense December 11, What was the location and use of the laver of brass? 9. What was the purpose of the five part anointing oil? 10. What very strict rule was made regarding the reproduction of the anointing oil? 11. What was the purpose (what did it symbolize) of the four part powdered perfume, and where was it to be placed? 12. Why don t we use anointing oils, perfumes, and incense in church today?

38 Page 38 Lesson 10 - The Workmen and Warning January 1, 2012 Exodus 31: I have called by name Bezaleel... And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, To devise cunning works... I. INTRODUCTION A. Were it not for the countless unremembered people that God provides for the work, many with irreplaceable skills and knowledge, little of the work would actually be completed. B. The LORD will reward the man who does the task for which God prepared him. The praise of men is nothing in comparison to the satisfaction of God. C. Be careful not to take credit for accomplishments. The glory belongs to God who gave all that was needed for the accomplishment to be possible. II. THE WORKMAN (1-6) A. The men 1. Bezaleel a. His family (1) His name means in the protection of God (2) His family had a history of faithfulness and service to the LORD (a) His grandfather, Hur, is one of the men who held Moses hands up (b) in Exodus 17 as Israel fought the Amelekites. His great grandfather, not mentioned in this chapter, was Caleb (one of the two faithful spies) (I Chron 2:18-20) (3) It should not surprise us, although it is not always the case, that God would use the descendants of faithful men to serve Him. It is an honor to have children who serve the LORD in special ways. b. His ability (1) He was filled with the Spirit of God (a) In wisdom - choosing to follow God s word (b) In understanding - the ability to understand: intelligence (c) In knowledge - that which may be learned (d) In all manner of workmanship - the ability to do specific tasks (2) It is God who fills us with the ability to serve Him (3). Our gifts are not our own, and we deserve no glory for having them. c. His craftsmanship (1) Cunning works (4) The word has to do with thought and the ability to figure out how to do intricate work (2) Metalcraft Gold and Silver and Brass (4) (3) Stonework Cutting stones, and to set stones (5) (4) Carpentry Carving timber (5) (5) Other Skills all manner of workmanship (5) d. His portrayal (1) In some ways, Bezaleel is a picture of the Lord Jesus Christ (a) He is filled with the Spirit of God (b) He is of the tribe of Judah (c) He is perfectly prepared to do the LORD s work 2. Aholiab (6) a. He is Bezaleel s chief assistant b. Nothing much is known of his family or his history c. He is an unsung hero who does the work with little more than the mention of his name, but he is essential to the completion of the work and to the comfort of

39 Page 39 Lesson 10 - The Workmen and Warning January 1, 2012 Bezaleel. d. There are many such workers for the LORD who labor almost anonymously but who are critical to God s men and the LORD s work. B. The motivator 1. They were called by name by the LORD (Ex 31:2) 2. They were wise hearted (6) III. THE WORK (7-11) A. The summary list of the objects to be constructed is here given 1. Tabernacle of the congregation (7) Chapter Ark of the testimony (7) Chapter Mercy seat (to place upon the ark) Chapter Furniture of the tabernacle a. The table (8) and The pure candlestick (8) Chapter 25 b. The altar of incense (8) Chapter Altar of Burnt Offering (9) Chapter Laver and foot (9) Chapter The cloths (materials) of service (10) Chapter The garments of the priest and his sons (10) Chapter The anointing oil (11) and incense for the holy place Chapter 27 & 30 B. The given task is very clearly described the question is almost never what God wants us to do, but rather is whether or not we will do it. IV. THE WARNING (12-18) A. Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep (13) 1. The work is given, but cutting corners is forbidden a. Some may think that doing the work is more important than doing it God s way (i.e. taking the Sabbath as a day of rest) but that is not so. b. The LORD knew that Israel would be inclined to press on with the work and forget to take the Sabbath Day that the Lord had commanded. 2. The Hebrew word Sabbath means, to rest from labor B. Why? 1. It is a sign between God and Israel (not the Gentiles) (13) 2. It is a way that they will know that God has sent them apart (13) 3. It is holy (14) C. The consequences for not keeping the Sabbath (14) 1. The death sentence (14, and 15) 2. The disassociation (being cut off) from the people (14) D. Details Six days to work: one day to rest (15) E. The Command reiterated Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath (16) 1. It is for all generations (16) 2. It is for all time perpetual (16) 3. It is a perpetual sign of God s covenant with Israel (17) 4. It is a reminder of God s rest on the Seventh Day (17) F. Written confirmation of the spoken word was provided 1. And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God. (18)

40 Page 40 Lesson 11 - The Golden Calf January 8, 2012 Exodus 32:1 Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. I. THE IMPATIENCE OF THE PEOPLE (Ex 32:1-6) A. They were watching what was happening (from a distance) and they saw that it was taking a long time (Exodus 32:1) 1. They had given God all the time that they were willing to give, and now were looking for another alternative Up, make us gods... (1) 2. Since they could not see Moses, or God working, they gave up we wot not what is become of him. (1) 3. Just because you cannot see God working at the pace you demand, does not mean that things are about to go bad. B. Aaron s complicity (2) 1. Aaron did not object to their madness 2. Aaron seems to have either agreed with them, or at least gone along in order to avoid confrontation his first comments were instructions about how to make an idol. C. The substitute for the LORD s plan and design (3-5) 1. The LORD had given Moses an intricate and beautiful design for a place which would allow the people to have fellowship with God. 2. Instead, Aaron substitutes a rudely fashioned molten lump of gold which resembles a calf one of the God s of Egypt. 3. This calf and altar was added to the worship of the LORD ( to morrow is a feast to the LORD ) (5) a. Quite often, man will simply try to add something to his worship of God in an attempt not to lose any of God s power but to have all of the options open. D. The play begins (6) 1. The day began early with plans to accomplish much 2. First, there was offering to the LORD 3. Then, there was satisfying of the appetite (to eat and to drink) 4. Finally, there was the idle mind seeking entertainment and fleshly lust rose up to play (6) II. THE INDIGNATION OF THE LORD (Ex 32:7-10) A. At once, the LORD knew everything about the sin of the people (7-8) 1. Who did it - thy people (7) 2. What happened - corruption 3. How it happened a. Disobedience of God s command (8) b. Replacement of God and worship of God with an idol (8) B. The problem was stubbornness (9) C. The solution was judgment (10) - The LORD planned to annihilate Israel III. THE INTERVENTION OF MOSES (Ex 32:11-14) A. Moses makes an appeal to the LORD to spare Israel based upon three issues 1. The LORD had already demonstrated great deliverance on their behalf, whereas He could have left them in Egypt (11) 2. The Egyptians would doubt the power of God if Israel were to fail to survive (12) 3. God had promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that He would multiply their seed and give them a land (13)

41 Page 41 Lesson 11 - The Golden Calf January 8, 2012 B. The appeal of Moses worked - God repented (14) IV. THE INTERRUPTION OF THE PARTY (Ex 32:15-20) A. Moses departed from the presence of God, carrying the stone tablets (15-16) B. Joshua was Moses minister (Ex 24:12) and met him as he came from the mount (17) C. Joshua mistook the sound of revelry and singing for the sound of a battle (17-18) D. Moses responded in anger when he saw the calf and dancing (19) 1. He cast away the tables of stone which broke apart (19) 2. He ground the calf to powder and put it into the water that the people drank (20) a. It is said that when gold is ground and placed in water, it causes the color of the water to turn to a crimson red - this signifying the sacrifice of blood for the sins of the people. V. THE INTERROGATION OF AARON (Ex 32:21-25) A. Moses gave Aaron the benefit of the doubt surely they made you do this! (21) B. Aaron made excuses 1. The people are set on mischief (22) 2. It was their idea (23) 3. You were nowhere to be found (23) 4. I threw their gold into the fire and surprise a golden calf came out (24) C. There is no recorded reply to Aaron s foolish excuses D. Aaron had shown his disgust by causing the people to act shamefully (25) VI. THE INTERCESSION BY MOSES (Ex 32:26-35) A. The Great Question Who Is On The Lord s Side? (26) 1. The Levites responded (26) B. God s command was the Israel be judged for this sin (27) 1. The wages of sin is death (28) 2. Three thousand died C. Moses made an appeal to God for forgiveness of the people 1. There was confession (31) 2. There was an offer of substitution (32) - Moses offered himself D. The Lord s response was the He would judge those who had sinned (33) E. God promised future judgment, but does not specify what this may be (34) 1. Could this be that they were not allowed to take the promised land? F. The calf earned the people a plague (35)

42 Page 42 Lesson 11 - The Golden Calf January 8, 2012 H O M E W O R K Name: 1. What was the apparent reason that Israel asked Aaron to make them another god? 2. What should Aaron have done when this request was made? 3. What did Aaron actually do in response to the request for him to make Israel gods? 4. What did the people do after they ate and drank? 5. In verse 9, what root problem(s) did the LORD cite as a cause for Israel s sin? 6. In verse 10, what did the LORD intend to do to Israel? 7. What three reasons did Moses give for the LORD to spare Israel? a. b. c. 8. What did Moses do with the golden calf?

43 Page 43 Lesson 11 - The Golden Calf January 8, What excuses did Aaron make when Moses inquired about why he had made gods? a. b. c. 10. What Great Question did Moses ask in verse 26? 11. How many men did the Levites kill? 12. What did Moses offer God in exchange for the deliverance of Israel? 13. What promise did God make in verse 35?

44 Page 44 Lesson 12 - The LORD Turns Back January 22, 2012 Exodus 33:3 I will not go up in the midst of thee I. INTRODUCTION A. Chapter 33 is one of the more informative chapters regarding Moses and his relationship with the LORD B. It begins with the LORD distancing Himself from the people, and ends with the LORD preparing to allow Moses to see more than any man has ever seen of Him. C. At the beginning of the chapter, the LORD declares that He will no longer go in the midst of these people, but by the end of the chapter He declares that He will honor Moses request and do so after all. D. It is another good picture of intercessory prayer, and also of the incredible relationship that Moses had with the LORD E. This is a most vivid look into the mind of God as can be found anywhere in the Bible II. A DISPATCH, BUT WITH EVIL TIDINGS (1-6) A. The LORD declares that the people are to resume their journey to the Land that God has promised them. (1) 1. The LORD refers to Israel as the people which thou hast brought up 2. The LORD recalls His promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and remains bound by it B. God promises to drive out the inhabitants according to His promise, but you can almost hear the disgust in His voice (2) 1. He will send an angel - He will not do it Himself 2. It is meeting an obligation rather than the joyful assistance of His people C. The LORD does not desire Israel s company - He will let them into the promised land, but wants little more to do with them (3) 1. I will not go in the midst of thee to the promised land (in other words, I m not going you go ahead by yourself. ) 2. He says that they are a stubborn crowd 3. If I come around you again, He says, in My anger I will consume you. a. The absence of the Lord is for their own protection 4. The Lord also commanded that they not adorn themselves with ornaments (5) a. Ornaments were decorative trappings intended to gain attention (like jewelry) b. You don t dress up and show your pride when you are in trouble with God D. Israel responded in two ways 1. They mourned (4) 2. They put off ornaments (6) III. MOSES HAS FELLOWSHIP WITH THE LORD (7-11) A. The Tabernacle is removed from the camp (7) because God is fed up with Israel 1. Far off from the camp (7) 2. To go to the LORD, the people would have to leave the camp of people with whom God is disgusted (7) B. Moses went to meet with the LORD and the people stayed behind and watched (8) C. The LORD continued to meet and talk with Moses, but not with the people (9) D. The people saw this happen, and worshiped from a distance (10) E. It was an unusual relationship that Moses had with the LORD - face to face (11) 1. The LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. 2. Friends understand each other, and agree (Amos 3:3). F. Moses went back into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man,

45 Page 45 Lesson 12 - The LORD Turns Back January 22, 2012 departed not out of the tabernacle. (11) IV. AN IMPORTANT REQUEST (12-15) A. Moses appeals to the LORD to change His decision about not going with the people, based on the grace that God had personally promised Moses (12-13) 1. Two things the LORD had said a. Bring up this people (without saying who the Lord would send along) b. I know thee (Moses) by name and thou (Moses) hast found grace... B. If you won t show them, show me the way (13) 1. And, consider that this nation is thy people C. The LORD promises to go with Moses and give him rest (14) D. Moses responds that if the Lord s presence will not go with him, then he does not want to go (15) V. AN INCREDIBLE REQUEST (16-23) A. Moses asks for proof of the LORD s sincerity Wherein shall it be known? (16) 1. Note: the presence of the LORD will separate Moses and the people from all other people on the earth. B. Because Moses found grace, and because the LORD knew him by name, he agreed to a second request. (17) C. Moses then made the request Show me thy glory. (18) D. Apparently, no other man has had such a close physical interaction with God as Moses. There were benefits with tremendously difficult conditions 1. The Benefits a. God s goodness would pass before him (19) b. The name of the LORD would be proclaimed (19) c. God s grace and mercy were his to dispense to whomsoever He pleased (19) 2. The Conditions a. Any man who sees the Father s face would die (20) b. A special place must be used (21) c. A protective clift of the rock would be necessary (22) d. The protective covering of God s hand would also be required (22) e. Upon departure, the hand would be removed so that only the back parts could be observed (and not the face). (23) E. The account of the actual event is given in the next chapter

46 Page 46 Lesson 13 - The LORD Declares His Name January 29, 2012 Exodus 34:5 And the LORD descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD. I. INTRODUCTION A. Chapter 34 is a meeting between Moses and the LORD which follows the plea Moses has made for the LORD to go with them, and precedes the beginning of the construction of the tabernacle and its furniture. B. The most notable thing in this chapter must be the declaration of the Lord s name, which is far more complicated than just one simple title. II. REPLACING THE STONE TABLES (1-4) A. The LORD commands Moses to replace that which he has broken - he paid for his rash angry action (1) B. God often replaces firsts (originals) with seconds. God does not limit Himself to originals. 1. Abel was replaced with Seth (Gen 4:25) 2. Law was replaced with grace 3. Heaven and earth will be replaced one day C. Moses is given a deadline (2) 1. He must have carved stone that night 2. Things are back on track. The LORD resumes His dealings with Israel. D. Moses was instructed to appear alone before the LORD (3) 1. Even flocks and herds were not to be near. 2. The pending demonstration of the LORD s might and holiness was such that only Moses would be eligible to endure it. E. Moses obeyed (4) III. THE LORD APPEARS AND DECLARES HIS NAME (5-9) A. The LORD descended... (5) 1. It is only God s grace and mercy that bring Him to descend to lowly man 2. It appears this is a Christophany (appearance of Christ in the Old Test.) as the LORD stood with him there. B. The LORD proclaimed His name (5-7) 1. The LORD - The word LORD, when found in all capital letters in the KJB, is a translation of the Hebrew word Jehovah and refers to the fact that God is self existent and depends on nothing for His being. a. He is not created. b. If Jesus is God, He also must be self existent 2. The LORD God a. The Hebrew words used here are El Al (also the name of Israel s national airline) b. This refers to God s power and might, and His goodness, and is sometimes translated Almighty God or most high God. 3. Merciful and gracious (6) a. The most important attribute to God, in terms of our benefit, is His mercy and grace (1) Mercy - withholding judgment (2) Grace - favor above that which is deserved 4. Longsuffering

47 Page 47 Lesson 13 - The LORD Declares His Name January 29, 2012 a. It is a good thing for Israel that God is longsuffering b. This word literally means slow or patient (1) God does not fly off the handle. Shouldn t we do likewise. 5. Abundant in goodness and truth a. There are two things that a Christian will never have a shortage of God s goodness and God s truth b. This is a key attribute of God 6. Keeping mercy for thousands: Forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin a. God is ready to forgive! b. God has done all He can to make forgiveness available to us! c. La 3:22 It is of the LORD S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 7. That will by no means clear the guilty a. God does not overlook sin - it must be judged b. God s Son was judged in our place 8. Visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation. a. Love & judgment can coexist b. Accountability to those who sin, and their children IV. A COVENANT AND A WARNING (10-17) A. The Promise A covenant... I will (10) 1. Marvels in the exclusive presence of Israel (10) a. Surely this applies to many things including the coming of Christ 2. Hebrews 12:21 refers to a terrible sight which was the appearance of the LORD to Moses in the mountain. B. The Prohibition Take heed (12) 1. First, observe the command (i.e. obey) (11) a. The Lord will deliver them from their enemies 2. Do not make a covenant with the ungodly (12) 3. Do not worship their gods (13-14) C. The Possibility Lest... (12, 15) 1. There could be a snare in agreeing with them (12) 2. They could snare you into serving their gods (15) 3. They could entrap you with their daughters (15) D. AND BY THE WAY, NO MORE MOLTEN GODS!!! (17) V. IMPORTANT FEASTS, COMMANDS, AND WARNINGS (18-27) A. The Feast of Unleavened Bread (18) 1. This was the second of seven feasts 2. It is found in Exodus 12, and Leviticus 23: It lasted a week, and was a memorial of the deliverance from Egypt B. Dedication of the firstborn to the LORD (19) C. Six day work week (21) - not seven - Rest D. The Feast of Weeks (22) 1. This was the fourth of seven feasts 2. It occurred 50 days after the prior feast, and coincides with Pentecost 3. Its symbolism centers on the Holy Spirit E. Men to appear before God (later, in Jerusalem) three times a year (23-24) F. No blood with sacrifices; no overnight remains of the Passover feast (25)

48 Page 48 Lesson 13 - The LORD Declares His Name January 29, 2012 G. First fruits belong to God (26) H. Not to seethe a kid in his mother s milk (26) I. Moses commanded to record these words (27) VI. MOSES APPEARS BEFORE THE PEOPLE (28-35) A. Miraculous survival - Moses lived 40 days without food or water (28) 1. The survival time without water varies from two to ten days, depending on the temperature B. The Ten Commandments were given once again, and recorded (28) C. The shining of Moses face (29) 1. Our face should shine in a different way when we have been in God s presence 2. Moses face literally glowed brightly D. Moses face was so bright that it caused even those closest to him to fear (30) 1. They fled away from him at the first (31) 2. Moses called them to him, and gave them God s word (32) E. Moses put a vail over his face, so they would not be frightened (33-35) 1. This vail is a picture of Israel s condition 2. II Cor 3:12 Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: 13 And not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: 14 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.

49 Page 49 Lesson 13 - The LORD Declares His Name January 29, 2012 H O M E W O R K Name: 1. What was commanded to be kept away from the mountain while Moses met with the Lord? 2. What is a Christophany? 3. Describe each of the eight attributes that encompass the Lord s name. a. The LORD b. The LORD God c. Merciful and Gracious d. Longsuffering e. Abundant in goodness and truth f. Keeping mercy... forgiving iniquity... g. That will not clear the guilty h. Visiting the sins of the father on their children

50 Page 50 Lesson 14 The Offering and Workers February 5, 2012 Exodus 35:5 Take ye from among you an offering unto the LORD: whosoever is of a willing heart I. CHAPTER OUTLINE A. Moses gathers the people and gives one specific final commandment from the LORD - to observe the Sabbath Day (Ex 35:1-3) B. Moses relays the LORD s commandment that an offering be taken (4-9) C. The command to construct the tabernacle and its furniture is given (10-19) D. The people cooperate and obey (20-29) E. Moses introduces Bezaleel and Aholiab to the people as chief workmen (30-35) II. III. GOD KNOWS OUR TENDENCY TO CUT CORNERS A. Again, the prohibition of labor on the Sabbath Day is given to Israel 1. It was first given in Exodus 12: In Exodus 16:26-27 the people violated the Sabbath regarding the Mannah 3. The command is given again in Exodus 16: The command not to labor on the Seventh Day is given in Exodus 20: The command is repeated in Exodus 23:12 6. In Exodus 31:13-17, God commands Moses to tell the people to obey the Sabbath (this was just before the Golden Calf incident) 7. The command is given to Moses yet again in Exodus 34:21 8. Now, for the last time in Exodus, in Exodus 35:2, Moses tells the people not to labor on the Sabbath B. The LORD was so serious about this command, that the death penalty was instituted in order to enforce it (2) 1. The work is important, but obedience is more important (you can t perform the work if you are dead). 2. The death penalty was instituted for select offences in Exodus a. Those who touched the mount (Ex 19:12) b. One that smiteth a man so that he die (Ex 21:12) c. One who smiteth his father or mother (Ex 21:15) d. One who steals a man and sells him into slavery (Ex 21:16) e. One who curses father or mother (Ex 21:17) f. One who neglects to keep his animal from killing a man (Ex 21:29) g. Anyone who lieth with a beast (Ex 22:19) h. Those who defile the Sabbath (Ex 31:14-15, Ex 35:2) 3. There are further offences named in Leviticus that earned the death penalty a. Giving a child to the idol god Molech (Le 20:2) b. Those who commit adultery (Le 20:10) c. Many other sins of immorality (Lev 20) d. Those who hath a familiar spirit or that are a wizard (Le 20:27) e. Others C. The prohibition of fire would prevent certain types of work (3) THE COMMAND FOR AN OFFERING OF GOODS A. It may seem contradictory that God would command something that is voluntary (4) 1. It is commanded that the offering was to be taken, but that giving of it was voluntary (5) a. Certain things are acceptable and they are listed (1) Gold, silver, brass (5) (2) Blue, purple, scarlet, fine linen, goat s hair (6) (3) Dyed skins and wood (7) (4) Oil, spices, and incense (8)

51 Page 51 Lesson 14 The Offering and Workers February 5, 2012 (5) Precious stones (9) b. There are the things needed to build what God commanded B. The offering is a test of the heart (5) 1. Is it willing? 2. Does it obey? C. Tithes are not the same as an offering 1. 2 Chron 31:12 And brought in the offerings and the tithes 2. Mal 3:8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. IV. THE COMMAND FOR AN APPLICATION OF GIFTS A. Those who are wise hearted are to make (10) B. Unlike the offering, wisdom of heart is the criteria, not willingness (10) 1. Those who can labor are instructed to do so 2. Gifts are given for use by the LORD C. The list of items to be built is given in verse 11 thru 19 V. WILLINGNESS IS EXAMINED THRU PERFORMANCE A. They were unsupervised in their decision - Moses was not watching (20) B. Who came? Who brought? (21) 1. Those stirred up by their own heart (21) a. What is the condition of your heart? 2. Those made willing by their spirit (21) a. What kind of spirit do you have? 3. Those who gave were willing hearted (22) C. They brought what they could - what they had (23) 1. God uses what we have to accomplish what He desires 2. God does not ask for that which we do not have, unless He then supplies it D. They used the ability and gifts that God gave them - i.e. the spinning (25-26) VI. BEZALEEL IS INTRODUCED TO THE PEOPLE A. This man had a call from the LORD he was unique in that regard (30) B. God enabled Bezaleel in a special way (31-33) C. A principle in God s word is to do and to teach (34, Matt 5:19, Acts 1:1) 1. If you can t do it, you can t teach it 2. If you don t do it, you can t motivate others to do it 3. If you won t do it, you can t convince others that it is important to do it 4. If you haven t done it, that does not mean that you will never do it

52 Page 52 Lesson 15 - Completing the Work February 19, 2012 Exodus 36:7 For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much. I. THE HEART AS SEEN IN EXODUS A. It turns out that Exodus is a book with much to say about the heart 1. The heart is mentioned 42 times in Exodus 2. This is about 5% of the total times the heart is mentioned in the Bible (884) B. Exodus deals with A glad heart (4:14) 2. A hard heart - Pharaoh (4:21, 7:3, 7:13, 7:14, etc.) a. God promised to harden Pharaoh s heart (in Exodus 4:21) (1) Note, if God had to do this, it seems that Pharaoh s heart might not have been naturally hard. b. Pharaoh also chose to harden his heart (Ex 8:15) 3. A plagued heart (9:14) 4. A giving heart (25:2) 5. A wise heart (28:3, 31:6, 35:10, 35:25, 35:34-35, 36:1-2, 36:8) 6. A protected and judging heart (Ex 28:29) 7. A willing heart (35:5, 35:22) 8. A heart that stirs up its owner (35:21, 35:26) 9. A teaching heart (35:34) C. What is the heart? 1. It is a source of imaginations (Gen 8:21) 2. It is a source of vengeance (Deut 19:6) 3. It is a source of strength in battle (II Sam 17:10) 4. It is subject to perfection or imperfection towards the Lord (II Chron 16:9) 5. It is the home of gladness (Ps 16:9) or suffering (Pr 22:14) 6. It is directed towards or away from the Lord (Ps 44:18) 7. It can be overwhelmed (Ps 61:2), smitten (Ps 102:4), wounded (Ps 109:22), established (Ps 112:8), haughty (Ps 131:1), sorrowful (Pr 14:13), or proud (Pr 16:5) 8. The heart is not to be trusted (Pr 28:26) as it is deceitful (Jer 17:9) D. The heart is the center of all the operations of human life. E. Sometimes, heart and soul are interchangeable in the Bible, but not always F. Prov 23:7 For as he (a man) thinketh in his heart, so is he. G. With the heart man believeth unto righteousness (Rom 10:10) H. The heart is the place where true intentions are determined and governed (Eph 6:6) I. God places things in our heart (II Cor 8:16), as does the devil (John 13:2) J. The heart is the source of our spoken word (Luke 6:45), evil thoughts (Mt 15:19), etc. II. THE WORK OF THE WISE HEARTED (Exodus 36:1-7) A. The phrase wise hearted appears seven times in the KJB - all in Exodus B. What is a wise heart? 1. It is a working heart - it serves God (1) 2. It is a heart which has accepted wisdom from the LORD (1) a. The LORD put wisdom (1) (2) 3. It is a heart that knows how to work (1) 4. It is a heart that obeys God s commands (1) 5. It is a heart that stirs someone up to come unto the work to do it (2) C. The provision of God through His people 1. It is voluntary (free) and regular (in this case, daily) (3) 2. It was not just sufficient, it was excessive (4-5) 3. Moses commanded that the offering cease (6) because there was too much (7)

53 Page 53 Lesson 15 - Completing the Work February 19, 2012 III. THE WORK IS DONE ACCORDING TO GOD S PLAN (Ex 36:8-38) A. Curtains (8-13) (see Exodus 26:1-15) B. Curtains of Goat s Hair (14-18) C. Coverings (19) D. Boards (20-30) E. Bars (31-34) F. The Veil (35-38) IV. THE WORK CONTINUES (Exodus 37) A. The Ark (Ex 37:1-5) B. The Mercy Seat (6-9) C. The Table (of Shewbread) (10-15) 1. Its vessels (16) D. The Candlestick (17-24) E. Altar of Incense (25-29) V. WHY THE REPEATED DETAILS? A. We have seen the details of God s design previously in Exodus as they were given to Moses in the mount. Why does the LORD see fit to repeat them in these chapters. B. For example (see back page) there are at least 15 details regarding the tabernacle that are given in Exodus chapter 26:1-6 which are repeated perfectly, and in order, in Exodus 36:8-13. C. First, it is a demonstration of the preservation of God s word - Moses somehow related the exact details given by the Lord to the workers. D. Second, it is a demonstration of obedience - no corners were cut: no adjustments were made: no alterations were allowed. They did exactly what God commanded! E. Third, it is an affirmation of the importance of compliance with God s instructions - it is not permissible to change that which the Lord decrees. F. Can we say we are as obedient to God s details as these workers were in their task? VI. THE REMAINDER OF THE WORK OF THE TABERNACLE (Exodus 38) A. The altar of burnt offering (38:1-7) B. The brazen laver (38:8) C. The court (38:9-20) D. The Tabernacle is finished (21-30) pounds of Gold was used (24) 2 a. The lamp stand weighed 75 pounds by itself pounds of Silver was used (25) a. About the same as a heavy duty pickup truck pounds of brass was used (29) a. About the weight of a Chevy Suburban VII. THE GARMENTS AND THE CONCLUSION OF THE WORK (Exodus 39) A. The Priest s garments (1-31) B. All the work was finished (32) C. The work was presented to Moses (33-42) D. And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them. (43) VIII. THE TABERNACLE IS CONSECRATED FOR USE (Exodus 40) A. The date is set - the first day of the month (1) 2 See Sunday School Resources,

54 Page 54 Lesson 15 - Completing the Work February 19, 2012 B. The Instructions 1. Set up the tent and bring in the ark, covered with the vail (2-3) 2. Bring in the table and candlestick and light the lamp (4) 3. Set the altar of incense before the ark and put up the door hanging (5) 4. Place the altar of burnt offering before the door (6) 5. Place the laver between the tent and altar (7) 6. Set up the court (8) 7. Anoint everything with the oil (9-11) 8. Wash Aaron and his sons (12) 9. Put the garments on Aaron (13) and anoint him 10. Clothe and anoint his sons (14-15) IX. THE CONCLUSION TO EXODUS A. Look what God has done in one year 1. Deliverance from Egyptian bondage 2. Provision of a dwelling place for His presence with the people B. The Obedience - Moses did according to all that the LORD commanded (16) C. The Tabernacle was raised up (17) D. An account of the assembly (18-33) E. The glory of God fills the tabernacle (34-38) F. Note that Leviticus 1 begins immediately, but the new feature is that the LORD now speaks from the Tabernacle, rather than from the distant mount. 1. The first portion of Leviticus is the giving of more of the law to Moses out of the Tabernacle. 2. Numbers chapter 9 is another account of this meeting