Commentary on Exodus 35:16

Verse: Exodus 35:16

"And the table, and his staves, and all his vessels, and the shewbread."

Introduction

In Exodus 35:16, the instruction for the construction of the Tabernacle is nearing completion, and the focus turns to the sacred items necessary for worship. The verse underscores the importance of the table, its staves, all associated vessels, and the shewbread, which carries significant theological and practical implications for both the Israelites of that time and for modern readers.

The Significance of the Table

Matthew Henry remarks on the symbolism of the table, interpreting it as a representation of fellowship with God. In the ancient context, a king’s table was a place of communion and sustenance. The table mentioned in Exodus signifies God’s provision for His people, illustrating the abundance of divine grace.

Albert Barnes emphasizes that the table served a dual purpose: it was a literal structure that held the bread of the Presence and a symbol of God's continual relationship with Israel. The presence of the table in the Tabernacle signifies God's desire to dwell among His people and provide for their spiritual nourishment.

The Staves: A Symbol of Mobility

The staves (or poles) used to carry the table represent the transient nature of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Adam Clarke notes that the staves made it possible to transport the table without touching it directly, signifying the holiness surrounding the sacred objects. This illustrates the concept of holiness in separation from common use, a recurring theme in the Levitical laws.

Furthermore, the use of staves indicates readiness and obedience. They serve as a reminder that God's presence was to be carried wherever the people go, implying that the worship of God was not confined to a single location but was an integral part of their nomadic lifestyle.

All His Vessels

The phrase “all his vessels” encompasses the various utensils and items used in the worship and service of God. Henry elaborates that these vessels were essential for the rituals of worship, such as offering sacrifices and preparing the shewbread. Each vessel had its specified use, indicating the order and intentionality required in approaching God.

Barnes reflects on the importance of these vessels in the context of holiness. He points out that each item had to be consecrated and used according to God's design. This speaks to the broader application in worship today: all aspects of worship should be treated with reverence, as they are instruments for honoring God.

The Showbread: A Continuous Offering

The shewbread, or the "bread of the Presence," symbolizes the sustenance God provides. It was to be placed on the table and replaced every Sabbath, serving as a perpetual reminder of the covenant between God and Israel. Clarke emphasizes that the shewbread represented God's provision and the spiritual food necessary for His people.

Additionally, the shewbread functions as a type of Christ, who referred to Himself as the bread of life (John 6:35). This connection provides a rich theological insight, linking the Old Testament practice to New Testament fulfillment, thus offering a deeper understanding of God's plan for redemption.

Theological Reflections

• God's Provision: The elements of the Tabernacle, including the table and shewbread, reflect God's ongoing provision for His people, indicating that spiritual nourishment comes directly from Him.
• Covenant Relationship: Each component served as a reminder of the covenant between God and Israel, reinforcing the commitment to holiness and worship.
• Symbol of Christ: The imagery of the shewbread as a type of Christ adds layers to the understanding of Jesus' role in fulfilling the Law and providing eternal sustenance to all believers.

Application for Modern Believers

For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, Exodus 35:16 serves as a vital reminder of the importance of worship in community. The intentionality behind the table, its staves, and the vessels prompts reflection on how contemporary worship integrates reverence for God, the sanctity of the assembly, and the striving for holiness.

As believers engage in worship today, they are called to recognize that every aspect of worship—the songs, prayers, preaching, and communal eating—should reflect the same reverence and intentionality outlined in the instructions for the Tabernacle. The principles drawn from this verse are universally applicable, encouraging a deeper commitment to the presence of God in every worship gathering.

Conclusion

Exodus 35:16 encapsulates essential aspects of worship and the presence of God among His people. Through the table, the staves, the vessels, and the shewbread, we glean profound insights about God's sustaining grace, the sacredness of worship, and the continuous relationship He desires with His creation. This allows for a rich engagement with Scripture that leads to a fuller understanding of God's character and a more profound application of His Word in the lives of believers today.