Scripture Reading: Hebrews 8:1–2

Introduction

A. When Israel wandered through the wilderness after their escape from Egyptian bondage, the tabernacle that Moses set up by God’s instructions signified the divine presence among them.

B. This tabernacle remained in use until the dedication of Solomon’s temple hundreds of years later (1 Kings 8:4).

Discussion

I. What did the tabernacle mean to the Israelites before Solomon?

A. It signified that they weren’t staying in the wilderness forever (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:1–7; 2 Peter 1:12–15; Hebrews 11:9–10).

B. It signified God’s presence among them in all of their travels (Exodus 40:34–38; cf. John 1:14; Revelation 21:3).

C. It properly placed God at the center and in the lead (Numbers 2:2; cf. Revelation 11:19).

II. There is an even greater tabernacle standing today.

A. It is a tabernacle that Jesus set up personally (Hebrews 8:2; Matthew 16:18; Hebrews 12:22–23).

B. It is the structure of which the old tabernacle was a mere copy (Hebrews 9:8–12, 23–27).

C. It is the place where God meets man (Exodus 33:7–11; cf. Ephesians 1:3, 22–23).

Conclusion

A. If you would like to enter this tabernacle with us, we would love nothing better, but the builder insists that you wash first.

B. You don’t have to leave this world to get to know the God who made you, because He has already come here!