(4.) Reading Moses, seeing Jesus
This discourse delves into the profound symbolism of the Biblical Tabernacle and its relevance to us, the followers of Christ. The Tabernacle stands as a physical embodiment of the divine pact between God and the Israelites, a beacon of His unwavering presence and faithfulness.
As Christians, we perceive the Tabernacle as a prelude to the life and mission of Jesus Christ, extracting daily wisdom from its symbolism. The Tabernacle enriches our grasp of God's blueprint for salvation and our intimate bond with Jesus, and it motivates us to lead a life of devout worship and service to God.
As pioneers in the exploration and practice of life's modalities, it is our duty and privilege to pass these insights down to the next generation of trailblazers and creators, who will, when the time is right, continue this legacy.
Reading Moses and seeing Jesus in the Tabernacle gives us a deeper understanding of God's plan for humanity. The Tabernacle and its elements symbolised different aspects of Jesus' character and mission on earth, and through faith in Him, we can be reconciled to God and have access to all the spiritual blessings in the heavenly places. As believers, we can live in the fullness of God's plan for us and walk in the righteousness and holiness that He desires for us, with the help of the Holy Spirit.
The Tabernacle was a crucial part of the Israelites' worship and their relationship with God. It was a place where they could come and encounter the presence of God, offer sacrifices, and seek His guidance and forgiveness. The Tabernacle was also a symbol of God's faithfulness, as it traveled with the Israelites wherever they went, reminding them that God was with them.
The symbolism of the Tabernacle is evident in every aspect of its design. The materials used to construct it were of the highest quality, reflecting the excellence and perfection of God. The colours of the Tabernacle were also significant, with blue representing the heavenly realm, purple representing royalty, and scarlet representing sacrifice. The cherubim embroidered on the curtains of the Tabernacle represented God's heavenly host, and the Ark of the Covenant represented God's presence and holiness.
The layout of the Tabernacle was also significant, with the Most Holy Place located at the center of the structure. This represented the separation between God and humanity, and it also symbolised the way to God through sacrifice. The Holy Place contained the table of showbread, the lampstand, and the altar of incense, which were all symbols of different aspects of God's nature and character.
As Christians, we can see the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is referred to as the "Word made flesh," which is a reference to the Tabernacle. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, just as God's presence dwelt among the Israelites in the Tabernacle. Jesus is also referred to as the "high priest," which is a reference to the role of the Levitical priests in the Tabernacle. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is also seen as the ultimate fulfilment of the sacrificial system that was practiced in the Tabernacle.
The symbolism of the Tabernacle can also be applied to our lives as believers. For example, the table of showbread can remind us of the importance of fellowship and community, while the lampstand can remind us of the importance of shining our light in the darkness. The altar of incense can remind us of the power of prayer, while the Ark of the Covenant can remind us of the holiness and glory of God.
In conclusion, the Tabernacle is a powerful symbol of God's presence and His desire to dwell among His people. It is a tangible representation of God's covenant relationship with His people, and it is a reminder of His faithfulness. The symbolism of the Tabernacle can deepen our understanding of God's plan for salvation and our personal relationship with Jesus. As we meditate on the symbolism of the Tabernacle, we can draw closer to Jesus and experience the fullness of God's love and grace in our lives. We can also use the symbolism of the Tabernacle to inspire our worship, prayer, and service to God, as we seek to live out His purposes for our lives and bring His kingdom to earth.
The Tabernacle is a testament to God's desire for a relationship with humanity. Through the Tabernacle, God revealed Himself to the Israelites and provided a way for them to come into His presence. The Tabernacle was also a place of revelation, where God would speak to His people and guide them in their journey through the wilderness.
As believers, we can also experience a deep and meaningful relationship with God. Through Jesus Christ, we have access to the Father and can come boldly into His presence. We can worship Him in spirit and in truth, and we can seek His guidance and wisdom as we navigate the challenges of life.
The symbolism of the Tabernacle can also help us to understand more fully the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the true tabernacle, the one in whom God dwells among humanity. He is the ultimate sacrifice for sin, and through faith in Him, we can be reconciled to God and have access to all the spiritual blessings in the heavenly places.
Furthermore, the symbolism of the Tabernacle can inspire us to live a life of worship and service to God. We can offer our lives as living sacrifices to Him, and we can use our gifts and talents to further His kingdom on earth. We can also draw closer to Him through prayer and meditation on His Word, seeking to know Him more intimately and to conform our lives to His will.