Overview

This verse emphasizes the divine promise of God's presence among His people. The sanctification of the tabernacle signifies the importance of holiness and God's glory in relation to His covenant with Israel.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry highlights that the tabernacle was a symbol of God's dwelling among His people. He notes that God's glory resting in the tabernacle indicates His acceptance of this place for worship. The sanctification represents the relationship between God and the Israelites, denoting that holiness is essential for communion with the divine.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes explains that the meeting place, or the tabernacle, serves as a pivotal site for divine communication. He draws attention to the need for consecration, which allows the people to worship God properly. The significance of God's glory is tied to the idea that His presence elevates the sanctity of the worship space.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the significance of God's glory; he emphasizes that it is not merely an abstract concept but a tangible presence that confirms the divine favor on His people. He points out that the physical elements of the tabernacle become imbued with meaning when God's glory fills them, illustrating the connection between the spiritual and the material.

Cross-References

Exodus 29:43 relates to several key biblical verses that enhance understanding through cross-referencing:

• Exodus 25:8: "And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them." - This verse establishes the purpose of the tabernacle as a dwelling place for God.
• Leviticus 9:6: "And Moses said, This is the thing which the Lord commanded that ye should do: and the glory of the Lord shall appear unto you." - God's glory manifested as a response to obedience and worship.
• 1 Kings 8:10-11: "And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of the Lord..." - Illustrates the fulfillment of God's promise as His glory fills the temple.
• John 1:14: "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." - Links the concept of God's glory in the tabernacle to its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
• Hebrews 9:24: "For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us." - Highlights the spiritual fulfillment of what the tabernacle represented.
• Psalm 26:8: "Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth." - Expresses a deep appreciation for where God's presence is found.
• Revelation 21:3: "And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them..." - Points to the ultimate fulfillment of God dwelling among His people in eternity.

Thematic Connections

This verse invites exploration into several themes throughout Scripture:

• The Presence of God: The promise of God's presence is a recurring motif, seen across both Testaments as a foundation for worship and community.
• Holiness and Sanctification: The necessity of holiness for approaching God is a theme explored in various contexts, illustrating the serious call to live righteously.
• Covenantal Relationships: God's desire to dwell among His people points to the covenantal nature of the relationship, emphasized through both law and grace.

Conclusion

Exodus 29:43 encapsulates the essence of divine interaction through the tabernacle, symbolizing God's desire for relationship with humanity. The insights from commentaries highlight the essential nature of sanctification and the transformative power of God's glory, providing a foundation upon which New Testament themes are constructed.

Recommended Tools for Bible Study

To delve deeper into cross-references, consider utilizing the following:

• Bible Concordance: Useful for locating specific verses and thematic connections.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: A systematic approach to finding related scriptures.
• Cross-Referencing Bible Study Methods: Techniques for thematic and contextual exploration of the text.
• Bible Reference Resources: Comprehensive materials for in-depth understanding and study.