Time & Place
- Time: 1491 BC
- Location: Wilderness of Sinai (camp)
- Setting: Tabernacle construction proceeds after covenant restoration (Exod 35–40)
Where Are We in the Text?
- Skilled work begins; materials are gathered and then restrained due to abundance (Exod 36:1–7).
- The tabernacle’s structure is constructed: curtains, boards, veil, and screens (Exod 36:8–38).
- The primary furnishings are made: ark, mercy seat, table of shewbread, candlestick, and altar of incense (Exod 37:1–29).
Where Are We in Time?
- These chapters occur after covenant renewal and the initiation of tabernacle work (Exod 34–35).
- Construction takes place before the tabernacle is erected and filled with glory (Exod 40:1–35).
- Israel remains encamped at Sinai while the work proceeds (Exod 19:2; 35:1).
Where Are We on the Map?
- Israelite camp in the Wilderness of Sinai: Location of craftsmanship and assembly work (Exod 36:1–2; 37:1).
- No geographical movement occurs; the progress is administrative and constructive.
Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)
- The revealed pattern is now executed in preparation for covenant worship (Exod 25:8–9, 40; 36–37).
- The tabernacle establishes regulated access to God under the Mosaic economy (Exod 19:5–6; 25–31).
- The mercy seat and ark define the covenant center of testimony and atonement within the system (Exod 25:16–22; 37:1–9).
Why This Matters
- Israel obeys God’s revealed pattern in worship and service (Exod 36:1; 39:42–43).
- The nation transitions from instruction to implementation under covenant responsibility (Exod 35–37).
How This Reading Relates to What Follows
- Remaining furnishings and priestly items will be completed (Exod 38–39).
- The tabernacle will be erected and God’s glory will fill it (Exod 40).
Summary Orientation
- Tabernacle construction advances from structure to primary furnishings.
- Israel supplies abundantly and work proceeds in ordered skill.
- The covenant dwelling place is being prepared for erection and indwelling.