Exodus·Chapter 40

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to find a quiet space where you can reflect. It could be a corner of your room, a park, or anywhere you feel comfortable. Spend some time in silence, just being aware of God’s presence. You might even want to write down your thoughts or feelings about what you sense in that moment. Think about how you can invite that same sense of awe and respect for God into your daily life, whether it’s through prayer, meditation, or simply being mindful of the beauty around you.

Chapter Context

To understand this moment, you need to step back a bit. In this chapter, the Israelites have just completed the construction of the tabernacle, a special tent where they would meet with God. It’s a huge deal! After months of hard work, they finally see it all come together. Then, out of nowhere, the cloud descends, and God’s glory fills the tent, creating a powerful moment that signals His presence among them. This moment marks a new beginning for the Israelites, as they now have a tangible way to interact with God. It’s like the grand opening of a new place where you know something special is about to happen—it shifts everything for them!

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• moses - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• able - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• enter - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• tent - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• meeting - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• cloud - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• settled - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• glory - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lord - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

How do you feel when you think about the presence of something greater than yourself? What does that mean for you in your everyday life?

Related Verses

• Leviticus 9:23 - After the tabernacle is set up, God’s glory appears to the people, showing His approval and presence.
• Numbers 9:15 - Describes how the cloud covered the tabernacle, indicating God’s guidance and how He led the Israelites.
• 1 Kings 8:10-11 - When Solomon dedicates the temple, God’s glory fills the space, showing that His presence is not limited to the tabernacle.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Exodus 40:35. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Divine Instruction, Holiness and Consecration, Priestly Ordination, Presence of God, Worship and Sacrifice, Covenant Relationship, Obedience to God

Key Verses

Exodus 40:2, Exodus 40:9, Exodus 40:13, Exodus 40:16, Exodus 40:34

Historical Context

Exodus 40 serves as a pivotal transition from the narrative of Israel's liberation from Egypt to the establishment of their worship practices centered around the Tabernacle. After years of slavery, the Israelites are now being instructed on how to approach God in worship. This chapter completes the unit that began with the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle in Exodus 25-31 and their subsequent construction in Exodus 35-39. The emphasis on the Tabernacle and the priesthood reflects God's desire for an intimate relationship with His people, highlighting the importance of obedience and holiness in their communal life.