The Tabernacle

Prepare: Enter the sanctuary with reverence.
Read: Exodus 25:23-40

The table reminds us that God is the source of our sustenance (Matt.6:11). The bread also speaks of the spiritual nourishment we have in His Word (Deut.8:3; Matt. 4:4). The golden candlestick tells us that "God is light" (1 John 1:5) and that we are to be lights in this dark world (Matt.5:14-16). Just as the lamps were fed by the oil, so we must have the power of the Spirit to be effective witnesses for the Lord (Acts 1:8).

The table of showbread (also called "table for the bread of presence") had twelve loves of bread on it. God was providing equally for the twelve tribes. It was a table of provision. God, as Creator, provides all food for man and beast. The table also speaks of the Lord's Supper, as instituted by the Lord Himself just prior to His death upon the cross. The table of showbread is a pre-figuration of Christ as the sustainer of spiritual life of the believer. Too many Christians are not feeding upon Christ. You have to feed on Him in order to grow.

The lampstand is probably the most perfect picture of Christ found in the Tabernacle furniture. It sets Him forth as pure gold and speaks of his deity. It sets Him forth as He is God. Worship has to do with walking in the light.

The almond rod, a dead branch, was made to live and bear fruit. Christ was established as the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead. The Tabernacle was to be the centre of Israel's life because it was here that man approached God.

Respond: The wealth God has provided for His people for them to be able to give offerings to enable Israel to construct such a luxurious place of worship.