"Even in the seemingly boring rules and regulations of tabernacle rituals... God's concern for justice permeated every part of Israel's life. It should also permeate our lives." - Timothy Keller
The tabernacle of Moses was a movable temple. It was the original form of Divine worship. The Jews recognized the mandates of the tabernacle, and of the entire Levitical service, as divinely appointed ordinances; therefore being perpetually obligated to them. It served as a sacred place where God chose to meet His people, and where the leaders and people came together to worship and offer sacrifices.
The tabernacle symbolized something old and sacred, and was uncontaminated by idolatry. There is mention, in this chapter, of the attributes and furniture of the tabernacle, which conveyed soley Divine ideas. It's true that Moses was, as we say, the "master of the works," but the plan was of Divine origin; as it was endowed by him who sees and knows all.
The exterior was decent, beautiful, and glorious, as is apparent by its description in Exodus 26:1-37. After all, it was fashioned after God’s own template. Yet, even though it was pleasing to the eye of the world, its materials were frail, brittle, and ever dissipating, as things made by the hand of man tend to be.
Hebrews 9 also supplies us with a wonderful description of the tabernacle in which the service of God was observed under the former dispensation. Perhaps even more importantly, are its references to what was merely an imperfect representation of the reality, and what was yet to come.
The placement of the tabernacle, in the middle of all of the tents, was also by God's design. This provided easy access, or approachability to Him. and a convenient spot to utilize the ordinances of Divine service for their forgiveness, serenity, and fellowship with He who desires our worship.
The solemn service of the high priest was performed here annually. God mysteriously resided within the second veil; which added to the sacred reverance of the ceremony. The high priest was the only one who was graciously allowed to approach God in his sanctuary. As a result, he was held in the highest respect.
While there may be many things that are impossible to explain or understand, things that are necessary for our salvation and growth in grace are made visible. The inner holy place is one that is not meant for our understanding. But what is revealed of the Law, is meant to be obeyed.
The lampstand provided illumination for the service of the priest, and the bread indicates the idea of spiritual supply. Tables of bread were replenished weekly. The priests ate the bread, blessed by God, only after it had stood for seven days before God in his tabernacle. Interestingly, this is seen as a foreshadowing of the supply which Christ claimed of himself (the Bread of Life) Philippians 4:19.
Memorials of Divine power are represented by the pot of manna and Aaron's rod. The former serving as a reminder to the worshippers of God's provision of daily bread; and the latter being a miraculous act that sealed the final ruling on priesthood (Numbers 17:5-10).
The golden altar of incense connotes the acceptance of prayer. While the incense aroma represents the prayers of the people. Prayers are pleasant to God from the perception of our need and humility of soul; our faith in his interest in us, and our desire to glorify his Name.
We mustn't forget the significance of the furniture, which was mercy and adoration. Underneath the mercy-seat, in the most sacred place, was the Divine Law. The cover of the ark, which was between the Law and God, was sprinkled with sacrificial blood; whereby, sins were forgiven through faith in the arrangement.
Lastly, cherubim stretched their wings above the mercy-seat; demonstrating that even angels desire to look into these things, bowing with reverence and love in God's presence. Thus, these details attest to the purpose of all revelation, all sacrifice, all the works of the Son of God, and the sacred power of the Spirit.
Scripture: Hebrews 9:2; Hebrews 8:5; 1 Corinthians 3:16; Numbers 18:21; Exodus 25:9
Prayer: Dear God, fill the hearts of your faithful and fill them with the fire of your love. May You send us Your Spirit so that we can renew ours with Yours. Amen
Have a blessed weekend!
Constance
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