The Master’s Plan - Part 2: Association

Exodus 25:8–9 ESV

8 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.

Hebrews 9:11–12 ESV

11 But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) 12 he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption.

Introduction

Last week we began a 3-week look at the Old Testament Tabernacle

Each station or piece of furniture had a practical purpose, but also pointed to the future

The Tabernacle was a vivid illustrated message teaching and preaching of Christ

a massive metaphor to help us understand the way of salvation

God wants to dwell with you

The Tabernacle is a pattern of something greater.

Last week we looked at those items in the outer court; today we will look within the Tabernacle in an area known as the Holy Place.

Table of Shewbread

Ex. 25:23-30, Lev 24:5-9

3’ x 1 1/2’ x 2 1/2’ tall

wood overlaid with gold

Practical aspect, location of 12 loaves of bread representing tribes

called the bread of Presence

During wilderness journey God provided manna (bread)

Eaten by priests at a certain time

Bread a common metaphor representing life

Drink offering (wine) poured out on ground nearby, pointing to spilled blood of Christ and communion

The table reminds us of God’s provision in our natural life and spiritual life through Jesus.

Jesus broke bread w/disciples

Jesus as Bread of Life /provision

Golden Lampstand

one piece of solid gold, weighed @ 75 lbs

Practical aspect, illumination

Hanukkah

John/Jesus preached about light

Jesus is the light

The lampstand speaks of the illumination Jesus brings into our lives by the Holy Spirit.

Altar of Incense

1 1/2’ x 1/1/2 x 3’

Acacia wood overlaid with gold

Practical aspect, alleviate smells from animal sacrifice; provide pleasing aroma

Prayers

Luke 1:10–11 ESV

10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.

The altar of incense points to the prayers that are offered to God by His people.

Conclusion

The Tabernacle allowed God to dwell with man and invited man into relationship with Him.

The tabernacle shows the blueprint or pathway into God’s presence