Where Are We? — Exodus 38

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Time & Place

  • Time: 1491 BC (Exod 19:1; 25:8–9)
  • Location: Wilderness of Sinai (Exod 19:1–2; 40:17)

Where Are We in the Text?

  • The chapter records the construction of the brazen altar, the laver, and the court of the tabernacle according to prior instructions (Exod 27:1–21; 30:17–21).
  • Bezalel oversees the work and the detailed accounting of materials used for the tabernacle is formally recorded (Exod 38:1–31).
  • Gold, silver, and brass contributions are measured and totaled according to the census of Israel (Exod 38:21–31; 30:11–16).

Key Persons

  • Bezalel — Chief craftsman appointed for the tabernacle work (Exod 31:1–5; 35:30–35; 38:22).
  • Moses — Overseer and recipient of the LORD’s instructions (Exod 25:1–9; 39:43).
  • Eleazar — Son of Aaron, associated with oversight of tabernacle materials (Exod 38:21; Num 4:28, 33).

Where Are We in Time?

  • The chapter takes place after the giving of the Mosaic Law and following the covenant renewal (Exod 19–24; 34).
  • Israel remains encamped at Sinai during the construction phase of the tabernacle (Exod 35:1; 40:17).
  • The events occur prior to the erection of the tabernacle and the commencement of formal worship (Exod 40:1–33).

Where Are We on the Map?

  • Wilderness of Sinai: Mountain region where Israel encamps for an extended period (Exod 19:1–2).
  • Tabernacle Court: Central encampment structure located within the camp of Israel (Num 2; Exod 40:17–38).

Where Are We in God’s Program? (Dispensational)

  • Israel is a covenant nation under the Mosaic Law, receiving a divinely prescribed system of worship (Exod 24:7–8; 25:8–9).
  • The tabernacle construction reflects obedience to revealed pattern following covenant violation and restoration (Exod 32–34; 35–40).
  • National worship is being established prior to Israel’s departure from Sinai (Exod 40:36–38).

Why This Matters

  • The chapter documents exact obedience and accountability in the use of materials dedicated to the LORD (Exod 38:21–31).
  • It provides an official record linking the census, redemption money, and tabernacle construction (Exod 30:11–16; 38:25–28).

How This Chapter Relates to What Follows

  • The completion of individual furnishings leads directly to the making of priestly garments (Exod 39).
  • The tabernacle will be assembled, erected, and filled with the glory of the LORD (Exod 40:1–38).

Summary Orientation

  • The brazen altar, laver, and court are constructed (Exod 38:1–20).
  • A detailed inventory of tabernacle materials is recorded (Exod 38:21–31).
  • Construction progresses toward full assembly and dedication at Sinai (Exod 39–40).
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