Exodus 26

“You are to set up the tabernacle according to the plan for it that you have been shown on the mountain.”  Exodus 26:30 (HCSB)

A tabernacle is a tent. In Biblical imagery, “tabernacle” describes several things.  

The Tabernacle was a portable tent used as a sanctuary for the Ark of the Covenant by the Israelites during the Exodus. This is where Moses would go to meet with the Lord. After Moses’ death, only the high priest could enter the innermost “Holy of Holies.”

Another tabernacle is the “sukkah,” a temporary light shelter with a roof of branches built in Jewish homes, yards, or synagogues for the “festival of Tabernacles.” AKA: a “booth,” God commands every Jew to build and live in a sukkah for seven days each year. This is to remember God’s provision and guidance during their 40 years of wandering in the desert. In fact, the Lord desires that all nations celebrate “Sukkot.”

“And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the Tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.” Revelation 21:3 (NKJV) (see also: Zechariah 14:16-19)

Another “Tabernacle” is your own body.  

“Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you, knowing that shortly I must put off my tent, just as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me.” 2 Peter 1:13-14  (NKJV)

Three things come to mind when I consider the Tabernacle:  

The first is the transient nature of tent-dwelling. One who lives in a tent should not become too attached to one location. We should be willing to follow wherever the Lord leads. Our love should be only for the Lord, and our desire should be consumed with wherever He guides.

Second, God’s standard and instructions for setting up a tabernacle are very specific. Those who say they are the Lord’s yet build their lives by their own design fool themselves. Jesus said we should set up our lives by His plan.

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”  John 14:15 (HCSB)

Lastly, God’s presence dwells in His Tabernacle.

“Do you not know that your bodies are the sanctuary of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God?”  1 Corinthians 6:19a (HCSB)