The Real Tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38; Hebrews 8:1-2; 9:23-26)
Sermon Summary
Pastor David Yan
18 May 2025
God gave the plans for the Hebrew tabernacle. Moses effected them. Similarly, God gave the plans of the temple. David, through his son Solomon, built it.
The tabernacle was a copy or shadow of the heavenly tabernacle. It was a temporary structure pointing to something more permanent which was the real tabernacle in heaven.
The tabernacle was the dwelling place of God. Here he would meet with Israel through Moses their mediator. The tabernacle belonged to the period of the law. The temple belonged to the period of the Kings. Today there is no need for tabernacle or temple. We are in the period of the gospel. God does not dwell in temples made with hands. Through the gospel of Jesus Christ he dwells in the hearts of people. They are the temples of God.
Moses was unable to enter the tabernacle because of the cloud resting above the tabernacle. No one can approach the Lord God without protection. Jesus has entered heaven. He alone may enter on his own merits. He is our cover.
The tabernacle and temple have ended their purpose in redemptive history (Hebrews 8:13; Acts 17:24). Jesus has fulfilled the purpose of them both.
God’s glory filled the tabernacle and his presence went with Israel throughout its journey. Jesus has promised his presence to the end of the age.
When God does a mighty work people can only stand and stare. The Israelites stood and watched when Moses entered the tent of meeting. The wise men at the manger could only stand and stare at the divine provision of the Messiah. At the cross of Jesus people could only stand at a distance and watch. When Jesus ascended to heaven the disciples stood and stared. When Jesus reappears people can only watch. Every eye shall see him. God works, we can only watch.
If you are ignorant of these Biblical things repent of your ignorance now. Have faith in the Lord Jesus. He has revealed what the Hebrew tabernacle is all about. It was a shadow of the real tabernacle — heaven itself. Are you ready for heaven?