Reading: Exodus 26:1-30
God gives instructions to build the tabernacle. It is to be a majestic and most beautiful structure. For example, the inner tent curtains are fine linen with blue, purple, and scarlet thread; woven with artistic designs of cherubim, and connected with golden clasps. Its wood is overlaid with gold. The tabernacle is Israel’s place of worship where the sacrifices for sin, offerings and prayers are offered to God. The design instils reverence for Holy God.
Hebrews 8:1-6 explains that this tabernacle is a copy or a representation of “the heavenly things” that is, “the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man.” Moses made the tabernacle “according to the pattern shown you on the mountain”; it is “the copy and shadow of the heavenly things.” These heavenly things are God’s “throne of majesty” and Jesus Christ the “Minister of the sanctuary”.
The tabernacle and its service represent the glorious and awesome throne room in heaven where God and Jesus Christ are seated (see Revelation 4). It describes God’s most wonderful holiness; the creatures call out “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power” To Jesus Christ they say “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honour and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 4:11 and 5:12.)
In heaven Jesus Christ “lives to make intercession” for the believers. Not with animal blood, but “With His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption” (Hebrews 7:25 and 9:12-13).
By the tabernacle God elevates the minds of the pious Israelites to these higher things. Through the Gospel we know more. Therefore we too stand in awe at the heavenly glory and precious work of God the father, Son and Holy Spirit. We no longer have the tabernacle; however we worship holy God with the same reverence as the ancient Israelites.
Key text: Exodus 26:30 “And you shall raise up the tabernacle according to its pattern which you were shown on the mountain.”
Question: When we enter church on Sundays we come into God’s presence. How do you prepare to meet God with due reverence?