Exodus 25: Instructions for the Tabernacle

Key Verse: Exodus 25:8"And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst."

God has delivered His people. He has given them His law. Now, He gives them something even greater—His presence.

He commands Moses to build the Tabernacle, a sacred place where He will dwell among them. The God of the universe is choosing to live with His people.

A Willing Offering

The Tabernacle will be made from the best materials—gold, silver, bronze, fine linen, precious stones. But God doesn’t demand these things; He asks for freewill offerings.

"From every man whose heart moves him you shall receive the contribution for me." (Exodus 25:2)

God is not looking for forced obedience—He desires willing hearts.

The Ark of the Covenant

The first item described is the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred object in Israel’s worship.

• Made of acacia wood and covered in gold.

• A mercy seat placed on top, with two golden cherubim facing each other.

• Placed inside: the tablets of the law.

This was God’s throne on earth. He tells Moses:

"There I will meet with you, and from above the mercy seat… I will speak with you." (Exodus 25:22)

Even in giving the Law, God’s presence rests on mercy.

The Golden Lampstand and the Table of Bread

Next, God commands the making of:

• The Table of Showbread – Holding twelve loaves of bread, representing God’s provision for His people.

• The Golden Lampstand (Menorah) – A seven-branched lampstand, always burning, symbolizing God’s light.

Every detail of the Tabernacle points to Jesus.

• The Ark – Jesus is our mercy seat (Romans 3:25).

• The Bread – Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35).

• The Light – Jesus is the Light of the World (John 8:12).

A Lesson for Us

God did not just rescue Israel—He wanted to be with them. And He wants to be with us.

• He desires willing hearts. Are we giving to Him freely, or out of obligation?

• He dwells in mercy. Are we living under His grace, or trying to earn our way?

• He is our light and sustenance. Are we daily depending on His presence?

God’s ultimate desire is not just obedience—it’s relationship. Will we make room for Him to dwell in us?