Introduction
Today, we delve into the profound message shared in our recent sermon, part of the “Kingdom Foreshadowed” series. This series explores the ten plagues, the ten words, the tabernacle, and the temple. This week, we focus on the tabernacle, its significance, and how it points to Jesus. Let’s journey through the Bible to understand how God’s presence has been revealed and how it continues to impact our lives today.
The Beginning: Creation and the Cosmic Temple
What is the Cosmic Temple?
In Genesis, we learn that God created the heavens and the earth, not just as a physical realm but as a cosmic temple. This temple is a place where His divine presence can be experienced. God created humanity in His image to be priests in this garden temple, a place where heaven and earth connect, and where God and His people share a divine relationship.
The Fall and Exile
However, humanity’s rebellion disrupted this harmony. Adam and Eve chose to eat from the forbidden tree, resulting in their exile from Eden. This act severed the connection between heaven and earth, leaving no place on earth where they could meet.
The Tabernacle: A New Meeting Place
From Slavery to Worship
The story of the Israelites in Exodus is a journey from slavery to worship. After their miraculous escape from Egypt, God instructed them to build a tabernacle. This portable place of worship was where heaven and earth could meet once again. The tabernacle served as the meeting place with God from the time of their Red Sea rescue until King Solomon built the temple, a period of about 400 years.
The Glory of the Lord
In Exodus 40:34-38, we read about the glory of the Lord filling the tabernacle. The cloud of the Lord covered the tent of meeting, and Moses could not enter because of the cloud. This divine presence guided the Israelites throughout their travels, lifting when it was time to move and settling when it was time to stay.
Jesus: The Ultimate Tabernacle
The Word Became Flesh
Fast forward to the New Testament, and we see how the tabernacle points to Jesus. In John 1:1-14, we read that the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. The term “dwelling” here is better translated as “tabernacled.” Jesus pitched His tent among us, embodying the divine presence in a new way.
Access to God’s Presence
Unlike the tabernacle in the wilderness, where only Moses could encounter God’s presence, Jesus made it possible for all of us to access God’s glory. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus bridged the gap between heaven and earth, offering us a way to experience God’s presence continually.
Life Application
Embracing Our Mission
Understanding the tabernacle and its fulfillment in Jesus challenges us to embrace our mission. We are called to partner with God in bringing His rescuing glory to every corner of creation. This mission involves loving God and loving others, shaped by the story of Jesus.
Questions for Reflection
- How can I make time to experience God’s presence in my daily life?
- In what ways can I partner with God to bring His glory to my community?
- How does understanding the tabernacle deepen my appreciation for Jesus’ sacrifice?
A Challenge for the Week
This week, commit to spending intentional time with God. Whether through prayer, reading the Bible, or yielding to the Spirit, seek to draw closer to Him. Reflect on how you can be a vessel of His presence in your interactions with others. Remember, our mission is to bring God’s rescuing glory into the world, and it starts with our relationship with Him.
Conclusion
The journey from the creation of the cosmic temple to the tabernacle and ultimately to Jesus reveals God’s desire to dwell among His people. As we understand this story, we are invited to participate in His mission, bringing His presence into our world. Let’s embrace this calling with gratitude and purpose, knowing that we are part of God’s grand rescue plan.
This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
