Study Guide / Outline

Introduction

• Overview of the study on the tabernacle and its significance.
• Emphasis on the importance of God’s presence among His people.

The Covenant and the Tabernacle

• Explanation of the concept of covenants in the Old Testament.
• God’s covenant with Abraham as an example.
• The idea that God made a covenant with Himself.
• Connection of the two tablets to the covenant.
• God’s affirmation of being the initiator and keeper of the covenant.

The Tabernacle as a Special Place of Worship

• Description of the tabernacle’s significance to God.
• Emphasis on worship and assembly as integral parts of Israel’s identity.
• Highlighting God’s love for gatherings and worship.
• The central role of worship in the lives of the Israelites.

The Establishment of the Tabernacle

• Historical context of the Israelites becoming a nation in bondage.
• The centrality of God in their identity.
• The necessity of having God-centered worship in all aspects of life.

The Temple and Its Meaning

• Introduction to the temple as a permanent version of the tabernacle.
• Exploring the names given to the tabernacle: “dwelling place,” “tent of meeting,” “tent of testimony,” “holy place.”
• Significance of these names in representing God’s presence and covenant.

The Tabernacle as a Type and Shadow

• Explanation of the tabernacle’s typology.
• Reference to John 1:14: “the Word was made flesh and tabernacled among us.”
• The idea that the tabernacle points to Jesus Christ.

The Outer Court

• Description of the outer court.
• Introduction of the altar of burnt offering and its symbolism as a representation of Christ’s sacrifice.
• Mention of the brass laver and its role in purification for service.

The Holy Place

• Explanation of the holy place.
• Description of the altar of incense and its symbolism as representing prayer.
• The intimate communion with God through prayer.
• The table of showbread symbolizing the fruits of righteousness.

The Golden Lampstand

• Introduction of the golden lampstand.
• Emphasis on the importance of illumination in the house of God.
• The lampstand symbolizing the light of truth and purity of God’s truth.

The Most Holy Place

• Description of the most holy place behind the veil.
• Explanation of the Ark of the Covenant as the only piece of furniture.
• The Ark representing God’s presence.
• The role of the high priest and the significance of the annual entry with blood.
• The comparison to Jesus as our high priest.

Conclusion

• Summary of the awesomeness of God’s presence.
• The accessibility to the most holy place through Jesus Christ.
• Encouragement to recognize and enjoy God’s presence in worship.