The Tabernacle of God: A Sacred Dwelling Place in the Wilderness

As conservative Christians, we hold the Holy Scriptures as the infallible Word of God, guiding our faith and practice. In the pages of the Old Testament, we find profound truths that not only reveal God's character but also point forward to the ultimate fulfillment in our Lord Jesus Christ. Today, let's delve into the Tabernacle of God—a magnificent structure commanded by the Lord Himself during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. We'll explore what it was, how it was constructed, and the divine reasons behind its design. May this study deepen our awe for God's holiness and His plan of redemption.


 What Was the Tabernacle of God?


The Tabernacle, often called the "Tent of Meeting" or "Tabernacle of the Testimony," was the portable sanctuary where God's presence dwelt among His chosen people, the Israelites, during their 40 years in the wilderness. Described in exquisite detail in Exodus chapters 25 through 31 and 35 through 40, it served as the central place of worship, sacrifice, and communion with the Almighty.


At its core, the Tabernacle was a tent-like structure, measuring about 45 feet long, 15 feet wide, and 15 feet high (based on the cubit measurements in Scripture). It was divided into two main sections: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (or Holy of Holies), separated by a thick veil. Surrounding the Tabernacle proper was a courtyard enclosed by curtains, where the altar of burnt offering and the bronze laver stood.


This wasn't just any tent—it was a holy dwelling, symbolizing God's desire to be near His people while maintaining His unapproachable holiness. As Exodus 25:8 declares, "And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst." For the Israelites, freshly delivered from slavery in Egypt, the Tabernacle was a tangible reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and His guidance through the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.


How Was the Tabernacle Constructed?


The construction of the Tabernacle was a divine project, with God providing Moses with precise blueprints on Mount Sinai. Every detail—from materials to measurements—was specified by the Lord, emphasizing obedience and reverence in worship. The people contributed willingly, offering gold, silver, bronze, fine linens, acacia wood, spices, and precious stones (Exodus 35:4-9). So abundant were the offerings that Moses had to restrain the people from giving more (Exodus 36:6-7)!


Skilled craftsmen, filled with the Spirit of God, led the work. Bezalel, from the tribe of Judah, and Oholiab, from the tribe of Dan, were divinely appointed for their expertise in metalwork, woodworking, embroidery, and engraving (Exodus 31:1-6; 35:30-35). This highlights how God equips His people for service, using ordinary skills for extraordinary purposes.


Key components included:

- **The Ark of the Covenant**: The most sacred item, a gold-covered acacia wood chest containing the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a jar of manna. Topped by the mercy seat and two cherubim, it resided in the Holy of Holies, where God's presence manifested above it (Exodus 25:10-22).


- **The Table of Showbread and the Lampstand (Menorah)**: In the Holy Place, these symbolized God's provision and light. The table held 12 loaves representing the tribes of Israel, while the seven-branched golden lampstand illuminated the space, burning pure olive oil continually (Exodus 25:23-40).


- **The Altar of Incense**: Also in the Holy Place, it was for burning sweet incense, representing the prayers of the saints ascending to God (Exodus 30:1-10).


- **The Veil and Curtains**: The inner veil, embroidered with cherubim, separated the Holy of Holies, accessible only by the high priest once a year on the Day of Atonement. Outer curtains of fine twisted linen, blue, purple, and scarlet yarns formed the Tabernacle's walls, creating a barrier between the holy and the common.


- **The Courtyard Furnishings**: The bronze altar for sacrifices and the laver for priestly washing underscored the need for atonement and purification before approaching God (Exodus 27:1-8; 30:17-21).


The entire structure was designed for mobility, with poles and sockets allowing it to be disassembled and carried during the Israelites' journeys. Once completed, God's glory filled the Tabernacle so intensely that even Moses could not enter (Exodus 40:34-35).


 Why Was the Tabernacle Designed This Way?


Nothing in God's Word is arbitrary, and the Tabernacle's design is rich with purpose and symbolism, all pointing to eternal truths. As conservative Christians, we see it as a shadow of heavenly realities, as affirmed in Hebrews 8:5: "They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things."


1. **To Reveal God's Holiness and Separation from Sin**: The progressive barriers—from the outer court to the Holy Place to the Most Holy Place—illustrated the chasm between a holy God and sinful humanity. Only through ritual purity and sacrifice could one draw near, foreshadowing our need for a perfect Mediator. The eastward-facing entrance reminded the people of Eden's expulsion, emphasizing restoration through obedience.


2. **To Symbolize God's Presence and Accessibility**: Despite His transcendence, God chose to "tabernacle" among His people (the Hebrew word for Tabernacle, *mishkan*, means "dwelling place"). This prefigures Jesus Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14, using the Greek equivalent). The materials—precious metals inside, durable bronze outside—reflected increasing glory as one approached God's throne, teaching us about progressive sanctification.


3. **To Foreshadow Christ and the New Covenant**: Every element points to Jesus. The Ark represents His role as the fulfillment of the Law; the mercy seat, His propitiation for sins (Romans 3:25); the lampstand, Christ as the Light of the World; the showbread, Him as the Bread of Life. The veil's tearing at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) grants believers direct access to God through His blood (Hebrews 10:19-20). The Tabernacle's sacrifices were temporary, but they anticipated the once-for-all sacrifice of the Lamb of God.


4. **To Teach Obedience and Worship**: The meticulous instructions demanded exact obedience, as any deviation would profane the holy (see Leviticus 10:1-2). This underscores that true worship is according to God's terms, not man's inventions—a vital reminder in our age of relativistic spirituality.


In essence, the Tabernacle was a theological masterpiece, instructing the Israelites (and us) in God's redemptive plan. It wasn't merely functional; it was instructional, preparing hearts for the coming Messiah.


 A Timeless Lesson for Today


Beloved in Christ, as we reflect on the Tabernacle, let's rejoice that we no longer need a physical tent—our bodies are now temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and Christ dwells in us. Yet, the principles remain: Approach God with reverence, through the blood of Jesus, and in obedience to His Word.


If this stirs your heart, I encourage you to read Exodus anew and meditate on Hebrews' exposition. May the Lord bless you as you seek Him.


In His grace,  

DMMC

2-12-26

Location: Peru, IN 46970, USA

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