The First Tabernacle

God's people will have a place where God will dwell among them. Exodus 25 introduces us to that place, the tabernacle.
Exodus 25:8–9 (ESV) And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst. 9 Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle, and of all its furniture, so you shall make it.

What is interesting on the description of this place for God's dwelling is the simplistic, specific and heavenly inspired detail that goes into it's creation. It is not enormous. By measurement, it would pale in comparison to even an average church building. It is moveable. The walls were drapes and cloths sewed together. The curtains were hung by poles which could be taken down rather easily and moved from one place to another. It will be designed straight from heaven. Notice God's words, "Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle." 

What are we to understand about this first tabernacle? It is the perfect heavenly pattern of all future tabernacles. Yet Solomon's temple will surpass it. The Second Temple will surpass it. Herod's temple will overshadow it in size and scope. YET - there is nothing like the original straight from heaven.

Who is the true tabernacle?
John 1:14 (YLT) And the Word became flesh, and did tabernacle among us, and we beheld his glory, glory as of an only begotten of a father, full of grace and truth.

Jesus is the true Tabernacle where God dwelt among His people. He was not enormous in stature or fame. He was moveable and had no place to lay His head.
Matthew 8:20 (NLT) But Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head.”

He went where He was needed to be for the sake of others to meet with God. He traveled, but not very far. He came for Israel to be with Israel and ultimately to save Israel. 
Matthew 8:6–7 (ESV) “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, suffering terribly.” 7 And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.”

Jesus is the exact image of God and the pattern for god-like existence.
Hebrews 1:3 (ESV) He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,

He said to those who followed Him that greater works than He did they would do. Down through the ages of time, those words have come true. God's works through the people filled with His Spirit have circled the globe and performed countess miracles to this day. 

But it all started with the pattern from heaven. Jesus is the original. He is God with us and in us - dwelling with His people. For Israel, this simple, small and moveable tent was a reminder that they were not alone in the wilderness and wandering. They could count on God with them! For you and I, Jesus is the constant reminder that God is with us in our wanderings. We are NEVER alone! He is the perfect pattern of a very present God.

Amen.

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