Commentary on Exodus 27:18

Exodus 27:18 states, "The length of the court shall be one hundred cubits, and the width fifty throughout, and the height five cubits, made of fine linen curtains, and their sockets of bronze." This verse provides specifications for the construction of the outer court of the Tabernacle, which is fundamental in understanding both the physical structure and the theological significance of the dwelling place of God among His people.

Historical Context

The command for the construction of the Tabernacle and its court is part of God establishing a place for His presence among the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. The Tabernacle would be the central part of Israelite worship and symbolizes God's dwelling with humanity.

Structural Overview

In this specific verse, the dimensions denote a precise and ordered approach to the construction of holy spaces, indicating God's desire for holiness, structure, and beauty in worship.

Dimensions of the Court

• Length: One hundred cubits (about 150 feet)
• Width: Fifty cubits (about 75 feet)
• Height: Five cubits (about 7.5 feet)

These measurements imply a spacious area for the congregation where they could gather to worship and offer sacrifices. Such dimensions reflect the importance of communal worship and the accessibility of the sacrificial system.

Theological Implications

This verse reveals several theological truths that pastors and theologians should consider:

• Divine Order: The specified dimensions emphasize that God is a God of order. As seen in the creation narrative, order precedes chaos. The precise measurements inspire respect and awe, suggesting that approaching God is serious and requires reverence.
• Accessibility: The grand scale of the Tabernacle court indicates that it was designed for communal access, contrasting with the later sanctity of the inner sanctuary. This underscores the concept that while God is holy, He desires fellowship with His people.
• Symbolism of Materials: The use of fine linen and bronze in construction signifies purity (linen) and judgment or sacrifice (bronze), representing the dual nature of God's interaction with humanity—He is both a holy God and a just one who provides means for atonement.

Insights from Commentators

Matthew Henry

Henry elaborates on the significance of the outer court as a place of gathering. He notes that its design allows for a separation from the common to the sacred, marking the transition from the secular to the divine. Henry emphasizes the importance of preparing a space where worship can take place, reflecting on how modern faith communities should be deliberate about creating sacred spaces.

Albert Barnes

Barnes focuses on the practical function of the court. He comments on the numerical symbolism of the measurements, suggesting that they reflect completeness and the fullness of God’s plan for His people. Barnes notes that the open nature of the court conveys God's invitation for all to approach Him, linking this to the New Testament understanding of Christ as our access to God.

Adam Clarke

Clarke’s commentary delves into the materials used in the construction. He highlights the significance of bronze — often representing judgment — and contrasts it with the fine linen which symbolizes righteousness. This dual representation instructs believers on God’s holiness and grace. Clarke further suggests that this careful attention to materials illustrates how everything in worship must reflect God’s character and intentions.

Application for Contemporary Worship

The principles derived from Exodus 27:18 can be applied to contemporary worship settings:

• Intentionality in Worship Spaces: Churches should consider the layout and design of their worship spaces, ensuring they facilitate an environment for community and reverence in God’s presence.
• Understanding God’s Holiness: Pastors must teach their congregations about the holiness of God, drawing parallels from the Tabernacle to modern worship contexts.
• Emphasizing Accessibility through Christ: Just as the outer court allowed access to God, congregations should be active in sharing the Good News that Christ is the way to the Father.

Conclusion

Exodus 27:18 serves not just as a construction manual for the ancient Tabernacle but as a profound theological statement about God’s relationship with His people. It presents a template for worship that is both accessible and reverent. As leaders and theologians study this verse, they should aim to draw connections between the Old Covenant’s structure and the New Covenant’s fulfillment in Christ, fostering a deeper understanding of God’s desire to dwell among His people.