Tabernacle Studies Part 1

Readings:  Hebrews 8 verses 1 to 5; Hebrews 9 verses 1 to 4.

THE TABERNACLE WAS:

(a)  8:5- Example of heavenly things. 9:23- Patterns of things in the heavens. Tabernacle was a sample of what was in heaven = “the heavenly things themselves”, 9:23.

(b)  Evidence of heavenly things. 8:5- The shadow of heavenly things. The sanctuary in heaven is the object that casts the shadow, “heaven itself”, 9:24, heaven in reality not copy or shadow.

(c)  Expression of heavenly things. 8:5- “The pattern shown thee in the mount”. Pattern = tupos. The original which metal-worker used to make an impression on his product to show it was genuine. The impression was the “anti-tupos”, the word used in 9:24- “the holy places made with hands, which are the figures (anti-tupos) of the true”.

(d)  Explanation of heavenly things. 9:8- “The Holy Ghost this sign-ifying”. 9:9- “Which was a figure (parable) for the time then present”. Cf. Ministry of Christ with signs and parables, so tabernacle. So God gave Israel an insight into the reality of heavenly things, and by saying “time then present” He indicated that entrance into His presence was a possibility in the future. Christ is “high priest of good things to come”, 11; that is, the good things that were coming in Old Testament times.

(e)  9:1 Worldly sanctuary: (a) Made of earthly materials, which have symbolic meaning. (b) Set up on the earth as a testimony to God and heavenly things. (c) Cosmikos = ordered, (cosmos). So arrangement of tabernacle had significance. (d) Cosmikos = beautiful, (cosmetic). The symbolical display of the moral beauty of Christ as He manifested God.

(f)  8:2 The true tabernacle: True = not just in name, but in reality; genuine. Does not make tabernacle in wilderness false, but means it did not express things fully. Hence- “Greater and more perfect tabernacle”, 9:11. C.f. “True bread”. Does not make manna false, but manna did not tell as much as God wanted us to know. This is known through His Son, hence long discourse in John 6.

(g)  9:11 Not of this building: Building = what is made or created. He who built all things is God, 3:4. Creation made up of time, (“in the beginning”), space and matter, (“heavens and earth”). So tabernacle on earth is not so great and not so perfect, because it began to exist, and is made out of matter, and it occupies space. True tabernacle is not like this. It is therefore eternal, immeasurable, and spiritual.

(h)  8:2 Which the Lord pitched: Pitched = pegged down. Idea of fixity and permanence. Lamb foreordained before foundation of the world, but not at particular point in eternity; so with this tabernacle. It speaks of that which is permanent.

(i)  9:25 Heaven itself…the presence of God: God dwells in light which no man can approach unto, 1 Timothy 6:16. God is in the light, 1 John 1:7. That is, He dwells in the environment of His own glory. God’s dwellingplace, (the true tabernacle), is the truth as to His being. How can the O.T. tabernacle tells us of this? It cannot, unless interpreted in the light of what Christ was down here as He tabernacled amongst men. 10:20 When we enter this tabernacle, we do so through the veil = His flesh. So the truth as to the person of Christ when on earth is part of this tabernacle.

 

Tabernacle Studies. Part 2 Readings  Hebrews 10:19,20. John 1:14-18.

Two climaxes in Hebrews:

For Christ- “By His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us”, 9:12. He could always approach as Son of God, but His blood gives Him title to approach as Christ our official representative.

For believers: “Having, therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus”, 10:19.

10:19 Having therefore- logical outcome of the foregoing. The once-for-all sacrifice of Christ is basis of our entrance. Boldness- but not that of Nadab and Abihu, Leviticus 10:1-4, who came with strange fire, in rebellion. Not boldness of Uzziah, who tried to be king-priest, and thus usurp Christ’s place, 2 Chronicles 26:16-21. The year he died Isaiah saw the Son of God on the throne in temple = King-Priest. See John 12:39-41. The believer’s boldness is based on the preciousness of the blood of Christ to God. It speaks better things than that of Abel, 12:24. Abel’s blood called from the ground for vengeance. Christ’s blood calls from the throne for mercy, and invites us near. Christendom knows nothing of this. To enter into the holiest- something O.T. priests could not do, and Aaron only once a year. He only entered because of covenant blood and atoning blood of sacrifices. “The bringing in of a better hope, by which we draw nigh to God”, 7:19. Not a sanctuary on earth, for there are none. By the blood of Jesus- “by” means “in view of the character of”. Because of the value of the blood of Jesus the sinless man, we have boldness to enter God’s presence.

10:20 By a new- Aaron did not tread this path. Aaron did not take a direct route, but came in by the side. We come by a direct route, and a new route, not to the side of the veil as Aaron. The path is untrodden in O.T. “The way into the holiest was not made manifest” for Aaron, Hebrews 9:8, but Christ is our forerunner, 6:19,20. And living way- “I am the way, and the truth, and the life, no man cometh unto the Father but by Me”, John 14:6. Passage goes on to speak of knowing the Father through the Son, and as we develop in the knowledge of God as expressed in the Son, we “come to the Father”. It is not a physical journey, but a spiritual one. The more we recognise that the Son leads to the Father, the more we realise He is the way. He is the truth, too, so as we know more of Him, we know more of the truth. He is the life, for He sustains us in life as we draw near to the Living God. We came with initial faith; we come as we commune, worship, and get to know God; we shall come when Christ comes for us. Which He hath consecrated for us- He it is who has made the way new for us. He came to introduce profound truths to His own, and in so doing opened up to them a new way of approach to God. Not through obsolete sacrifices, or failing priesthood, but by what He is in Himself. Through the veil- Aaron went around the veil, we go through. Veil for Aaron was physical; for us it is spiritual. Veil for Aaron’s sons was a barrier, for us it is the means of entry. That is to say- so veil is explained for us. His flesh– not literally, but figuratively. The truth connected with all that Christ was in the flesh, is the means whereby we enter God’s presence. In John 6:54 true believer eats the flesh of the Son of Man = absorbs into the soul the truths surrounding His life down here; all that His life unfolded of God. So His flesh is also the way of access, for we enter God’s presence in virtue of what He showed Himself to be down here. We enter because His blood was shed for us; we enter because His life was lived for us.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 3  Readings:  Exodus 25:1-9; Exodus 40:34,35; John 1:14-18

Tabernacle was example, evidence, expression, explanation of heavenly things. Copy of True Tabernacle, which is “not of this building”, therefore is eternal, immeasurable, spiritual. “through the veil, that is to say His flesh”, so veil is the clue to the meaning of the tabernacle- it must be interpreted in reference to Christ.

John 1:14 And the Word- the expression of the mind of God, “He hath declared Him”, verse 18. Note the “and”, linking with previous verses which tell of ways He manifested God before. He existed eternally with God, 1; He made all things, 3; He acted in providence in O.T. 5; He now comes into the world in manhood to give the final and full exposition of God. See Hebrews 1:1. Was made flesh- He made Himself of no reputation by (a) taking the form of a servant and (b) being made in the likeness of men, Philippians 2:7. Flesh = the whole of what really being a man involves. Does not include sinful nature, for Adam was a real man when innocent. And dwelt among us– not “us men”, nor “us Israelites”, but “us believers”, hence verses 12, 13 come first. Company fitted by eternal life to see His glory. Dwelt = “tabernacled among us”. God’s ongoing desire to dwell among His people. In view of whole of John’s gospel, we may say he has the tabernacle in mind here. Peter calls his body a tabernacle, but here it is not a person dwelling in a tabernacle, but the tabernacle itself, the (life in the) flesh of Christ. And we beheld His glory- Moses could not enter to see the glory in tabernacle at first. Because He is in flesh He is accessible. (The glory as of– not the “as” of comparison, but of confirmation. Not “as if it were the case”, but “as is the case”. The only-begotten of the Father)- so His relationship is of different sort to the sons of verse 12, or else He could not be “only-begotten”. Full of grace and truth- this is way the glory is seen, (the glory is full of grace and truth). Acts of grace and words of truth. He is full of both grace and truth, not 50/50. There is nothing legal about Christ, although He kept the Law. There is nothing licentious about Christ, for He is full of truth, never deviating from God’s will. When Moses saw God’s glory, he heard God speaking words about grace and truth. Moses was hidden, and could not see God’s face, Exodus 33:23. That glory is now fully seen in Christ. We see “the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ”, 2 Corinthians 4:6.

Comparisons:

(a) Make Me a tabernacle- a sanctuary = set-apart place. (a) The Word was made flesh- came in sinless, holy manhood. Separate from sinners.

(b) That I may dwell among them. (b) And dwelt among us.

(c) Glory fills the tabernacle.

(c) His glory. The tabernacle remained (= tabernacled) among them, Leviticus 16:16. SO THE TABERNACLE TABERNACLED.

Contrasts:

(a) God and the tabernacle were separate, and He dwelt in it.

(a) The Word, (who is God, verses 1) dwells amongst men as the realisation of tabernacle symbolism.

(b) The glory is separate to the tabernacle.

(b) The glory of Christ is manifest in His Person.

(c) Moses was not able to see the glory.

(c) “We beheld His glory”.  

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 4 Readings:   Exodus 26:1-6 Numbers 3:25, 26, 36, 37.

As the above references from Numbers show, those who carried the tabernacle did not carry the boards. Strictly speaking, the tabernacle is the innermost curtain. Everything else belongs to that- his boards, his bars, etc, 39:33. The boards were “for the tabernacle”, 26:15, just as a tent has poles to keep it up. The tabernacle (“mishkan”) consisted of ten curtains joined together. This was covered by the eleven goats’ hair curtains called “the tabernacle of the congregation”, (where the word tabernacle =”ohel” = tent ), verse 7. Then there was a “covering for the tent”, (that is, a covering for the goats’ hair curtains), consisting of rams’ skins, verse 14. Covering all of these was a covering of badgers’ skins, verse 14. “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us” and “the veil , which is to say His flesh”, encourage us to see in the tabernacle and the veil symbols of the Word as He told out the mind of God. In Scripture, clothing represents character, the way we present ourselves to the world. “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ”, Romans 13:14; “As many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ”, Galatians 3:27; “Be clothed with humility”, 1 Peter 5:5; “And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of the saints”, Revelation 19:8. The word righteousness in that reference is plural, so indicates acts of righteousness. The curtains were made of fine, twined linen.

The fine linen represents the practical righteousness of Christ in His life down here. Linen comes from a plant, reminding us that He grew up before His Father as a tender plant. The word linen implies it was bleached white- the unspotted righteousness of Christ. (C.f. His garments on the Mt. of Transfiguration). The fineness tells of the quality of His life, for the finer the cloth, the more luxurious the garment. The twined threads tell of the strength and resolve of His life. The energy expended in twisting is retained in the thread. (John 2:13-17, in righteous zeal, verse 17, He purges the temple. “And was clad with zeal as a cloak”, Isaiah 59:17. He added His own unique “colours” to the righteousness of His life.

The blue dye came from the sea, from the Caerulean Mussel. (Caerulus is Latin for heaven). The paved work before God’s throne is blue, Exodus 24:10. Just as the sea reflects the blue of the sky, so Christ came down from heaven to do the will of heaven on earth.

The purple threads: The purple dye was used to make the high-priced garments which were the mark of rank and nobility. It was known as “The Imperial Purple”. “King of Israel” is a Divine Title, Isaiah 44:6. Solomon’s throne was “the throne of the Lord”, 1 Chronicles 29:23. This throne will be occupied literally by the Lord, as Hebrews 1:8-13 describes.

His Kingship recognised. John calls Christ king more times than Matthew’s Gospel of the King. Nathaniel linked “King of Israel” and Son of God” together, and he was right to do so, for the Kingship of Christ is vested in His Deity.

His Kingship misunderstood, for He refused the throne from men, John 6:15. (Note the Synoptics record the Transfiguration at this point- He will accept the kingdom from His Father).

His Kingship rejected- “Behold your King!” The response- “Away with Him”. “We have no king but Caesar”, John 19:14,15.  His Kingship explained, 18:33-38.  

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 5 Reading: John 18:33-38.

Purple and Scarlet and cherubim. We have noticed that “King of Israel” is a title of God, a fact Nathaniel recognised by linking Son of God and King of Israel together. Kingship recognised. Kingship was misunderstood by the people, John 6:14,15, who thought only in economic and political terms. Kingship rejected by the Jewish authorities, “We have no king but Caesar “. Kingship explained: John 18:33-37. 33 Charge of being Son of God now replaced by charge of making Himself a King. Pilate must investigate this, for Rome may be at risk. 34 Motive behind the question must be established. Pilate is being questioned! Christ’s kingdom is a righteous kingdom. Of thyself- in which case he has not examined the prisoner to find out. Did others tell it thee- have the Jews switched charges, and hence are acting illegally? He, the Just One, is establishing this was done unjustly. 35 Pilate evades the question twice: Am I a Jew? he professes not to understand Jewish matters. Christ’s kingdom will not be limited to Israel. Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered Thee- His nation had welcomed Him, it was priests who rejected Him. His kingdom will be welcomed– “Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord”. What hast Thou done- “Are you a trouble-maker”? His kingdom will ensure that evil behaviour is dealt with using a rod of iron. 36 My kingdom is not of this world- its authority is from heaven, and will be exercised on earth. If…of this world, then would my servants fight- Peter rebuked in Gethsemane for using sword; Malchus healed. What king rebukes his followers for fighting, and heals the other king’s soldiers? His kingdom is spiritual. If…but now- not a change of plan, but the possible scenario introduced by “if” is not correct. But now = this has been the true situation all along. 37 Thou sayest = way a polite Jew would answer “Yes”. C.f. Matthew 26:24. For this cause came I into the world, that I might bear witness of the truth- His kingdom is based on truth, not deceit and lies as the kingdoms of men. Every one that is of the truth heareth My voice- His kingdom consists of loyal subjects, who love the truth. Scarlet: Produced from a red insect that clings motionless to a tree and lays eggs like grains of wheat, (Greek word for the colour means “grain of wheat”). “Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die”, John 12:24. “But if it die, (lifted up on a tree), it bringeth forth much fruit”, just as the scarlet beetle produced her eggs whilst on the tree.

Scarlet was a very fast dye, not easily removed. “Ingrained”. He would not be deflected from going to the cross. Cherubim: Embroidered on the curtains. Cherubim defended the righteous interests of God. Whether in heaven, “anointed cherub that covereth”, or on earth, as the cherubim at the gate of Eden, keeping the way of the tree of life. But we do not read of cherubim after Christ’s coming, except when they are referred to in Old Testament times over the ark.- He has ensured the righteousness of God is preserved by His life and His death. This is symbolised in the curtains. Having thought of the fabric of the curtains, we turn to the formation. Tabernacle made of two curtains joined by golden hooks. Each curtain was made up of five smaller curtains, joined by blue thread. Curtain = the Word made flesh. God’s law consisted of “ten words”, and the three times the word ten is linked with it, the word for commandments = dabar, the equivalent to “logos”.

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 6.  The ten curtains.  Readings: Exodus 33:18-23; 34:5-8, 28; Matthew 5:17,18; John 1:14-18.

The inner curtain was made up of two sets of five smaller curtains, joined by golden taches = means of at-tach-ment. Only when the word ten is linked with the word commandments is the word “dabar” used for commandments. “Dabar” is the equivalent to the Greek word “logos”, the title given to Christ by John. Logos = a statement, theme, topic, not a single word. So each of the ten commandments is a statement about God as well as a command.   (First, He is the only true God; Second, He deserves undivided loyalty; Third, His name is too worthy to be devalued; Fourth, He is Creator, and seeks the best interests of His creatures; Fifth, He is the archetypal Father; Sixth, He is the Living God; Seventh, He is holy; Eighth, He is a giving God; Ninth, He gives faithful testimony; Tenth, He gives contentment). Since the “Logos” became flesh and tabernacled, and since logos = dabar, we can say that each small curtain represents a command of the law, and Christ not only kept that command, but expounded it by His life in the flesh, and so revealed God. But He did it in grace and truth, in curtain-like gentleness, not stone-like harshness. Isaiah 42:21 prophesied that the Messiah would “magnify the law and make it honourable”, and this He did.  He magnified it by keeping it perfectly; He made it honourable by clearing away the misunderstandings about it caused by those who had made the law of no effect by their tradition, Matthew 15:6. We learn from Matthew 5:17 that Christ did not come to destroy the Law, but to fulfil it. The rabbis said to “fulfil the law” means two things: (i)  To fully obey it. (ii) To fully explain it.  The Lord did both, and displayed God as He did so. The law was written on two tables of stone, for it had a God-ward and man-ward side.  The lawyer was commended for knowing that “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God…love thy neighbour as thyself” summed up the law, Luke 10:25-28. Just as the two sets of five were joined by golden hooks, so Christ held together both aspects of the Law.  His love to God and His love for men was in perfect proportion. Christ fully expressed God in grace and truth.  The first representative of the law could not see the glory of God fully; the last representative of the law, (John the Baptist), declares that Christ is superior, John 1:15.  We see the full glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, 2 Corinthians 4:6.

Grace and truth gloriously displayed. John 1:14.  The Word…only begotten Son…beheld His glory…full of grace and truth- the way the glory of God was made known. God is love, and hence shows grace. God is light, and hence reveals truth. The only-begotten Son shares Divine life, and therefore manifests the grace and truth of God.

Grace and truth received: 1:16  And of His fulness have all we received- those born again receive from this full reserve of grace and truth, and further grace corresponding to the grace we need.  All believers have it- it is not earned.

Grace and truth maintained: 1:17  Law was given by Moses- he handed over tables of stone.  Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ- He fully expressed both, and maintains them still. 1:18  No man hath seen God at any time- neither Moses or Aaron could see God. The only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him- As Son He shares Divine life, as one in the bosom of the Father, He declares Divine secrets.  

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 7.  The goats’ hair curtain. Reading:  Exodus 26:7-13, 33.

The inner curtain = the tabernacle. The next curtain = “a covering (tent) upon the tabernacle”, verse 7.  It was designed to completely cover the tabernacle. The inner curtain was 28 cubits wide, so did not touch the ground at the sides.  Since the veil was hung up under the taches, Exodus 26:33, and the taches were 20 cubits, (5×4) from the front end, and since we know the boards were 10 cubits high, then the inner curtain touched the ground at the western end. Since the tabernacle curtain symbolises Christ, we may say that He did indeed dwell amongst men (the curtain touched the ground, so there was no physical distance), but He was separate from sinners, (there was a moral distance).  He was in the world but not of it, as believers are, John 17:14-18. Notice the position of the apostrophe in goats’, rams’ and badgers’.  More than one animal is in view. Goats hair can either be taken from a living goat, (e.g. Angora), or from a dead goat. A living goat and a dead goat featured on the Day of Atonement.  Christ had come to live, (inner curtain), and die (goats’ hair). One goat was slain and its blood made propitiation for the sins of the people in the sanctuary.  “Jesus Christ the righteous…and He is the propitiation for our sins”, 1 John 2:1,2. The living goat carried the sins of the people into a place from which they could not return.  “The Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all”, Isaiah 53:6.  “He bare our sins in His own body on the tree”, 1 Peter 2:24.  “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us”, Psalm 103:12.  North to South is measurable; East to West is not. Goat’s hair is fine and silky- even when dealing with sin the Lord retained His moral beauty. God dwelt in the tabernacle among the Israelites, but the Day of Atonement cleared Him of any compromise with sin, Leviticus 16:16. So Christ dwelt amongst Israel, but He did so in order to go to Calvary. So just as the goats’ hair “covered” the inner curtain, protecting it on all sides, so the fact that He came to die “covered” Him from any charge from any angle.

The goats’ hair covering had an extra section.  This was draped, folded, over the front of the tabernacle. This meant the following:

1.  Not even the front edge of the inner curtain was visible.  Only the priests could see it from within the sanctuary.  If we are to behold His glory, John 1:14, we must be “inside”, that is, born of God, verse 12, 13.

2.  There was a constant reminder to all Israel of the Day of Atonement.  This cautioned them against sinning, yet encouraged them that God was able to deal with their sin. So Christ in His life was a rebuke to sin, but He had come to deal with it at Calvary.

3. The priests passed into the tabernacle under it, reminding them that the Day of Atonement ceremony was necessary because of the failure of Nadab and Abihu, Leviticus 16:1. We have boldness to enter into God’s presence because of Christ’s sin-offering work, Hebrews 10:11-19.

4.  John the Baptist, (son of a priest), announced the coming of Christ to His public ministry with the words, “Behold the lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world”, John 1:29.  The word for coming in Acts 13:24 is literally “entrance”.  The folded goats’ hair curtain hung over the entrance to the tabernacle.  

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 8.  The rams’ skins dyed red.  Readings:  Exodus 26:14; 29:19-25.

Rams’ skins covering. Covering for the tent.  Goats’ hair was covering for tabernacle = inner curtain. So first and second linked, and second and third. First and second correspond exactly, join to join, taches to taches.  Christ answered every demand in the law, and dealt with each transgression in His death.  But He did more, for “the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound”, Romans 5:20.  Goats’ hair went beyond the inner curtain, so Christ in grace did more than meet the demands of law.

Rams’ skins cover tent of goats’ hair. Goats’ hair = propitiation and substitution.  Will He go through with this great task?  The answer is in the rams’ skins dyed red.

Rams’ skins = consecration, as Exodus 29. “Skin” denotes animal has died = Christ’s full commitment.  “became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross”, Philippians 2:8. Adam named animals, and word “ram” means “to be first, chief, strong”.  “Among them that are born among women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist”, Matthew 11:11.  Yet he said, “He that cometh after me is preferred before me, for He was before me”.  John 1:15, 27, 30. He is preferred, (has precedence), because: (a) He is pre-existent, John 1:1. (“He was before me”). (b) He came in grace, not law, 14 and 15. (c) He is morally and officially superior, 27 (John not worthy to undo His shoe). (d) He dealt with sin, 29 with 30.

“Skins” denotes many animals died, (perhaps hundreds to make a covering of 1200 square cubits).  A myriad offerings to foreshadow and give a sense of Christ’s total consecration.

There are no measurements for the rams’ skins.  Only the Father can evaluate fully the strength of Christ’s devotion.

The ram of consecrations was a peace offering, which is associated with making a vow, Leviticus 7:16. Coming into the world He said, “Lo, I come to do Thy will O God”, Hebrews 10:9.  Then we read He “sat down on the right hand of God”, verse 12.  He has gone the whole way in consecration. He was committed to propitiation and substitution in full devotion.

The word consecration means “fillings”, and refers to the filling of the hands of Aaron with the parts of the peace offering and meal offering.  He was to be fully occupied with Divine things. But this was true of his sons as well- are we committed fully to Divine things, or do we hold back from full devotion?  Do we mean it when we sing “Take my life, and let it be, consecrated, Lord, to Thee”?

Dyed red- the animal dies, and then the red dye is a constant reminder of the fact.  “And I beheld, and lo, in the midst of the throne…stood a lamb as it had been slain”, Revelation 5:6. The skins are not stained with blood, for that tells of judgement, Isaiah 63:1-6. The Hebrew word for red is “adam”, reminding us He was devoted as a real man, for He left us an example we can follow.  He is the Last Adam, for He brings in finality. The word “adam” means “to be red”, or “to show blood”.  The blood was placed on the ear, hand and foot of both Aaron and his sons- they were to be equally committed. Adam was made a little lower than the angels to live; Christ was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, Hebrews 2:7,9. As our High Priest, He is “consecrated for evermore”, Hebrews 7:28, for He serves His people still.  We are priests too.

 

  Tabernacle Studies  Part 9  The badgers’ skins and the boards. Reading: Exodus 26:14-30.

THE BADGERS’ SKINS: This was the outer covering of the structure, and no measurement is given. It is usually thought of as drab and weather-beaten, and the words of Isaiah 53:2 are applied to it, “when we shall see Him, there is no beauty that we should desire Him”.  Only the believer can appreciate the moral beauties of Christ’s character. However, the other reference to badgers’ skins is in Ezekiel 16:10, where God is describing how He beautified the nation, so that “thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy beauty, for it was perfect through My comeliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the Lord”. In this context, a drab material is not appropriate.  Besides, the badger, as we know it, is an unclean animal of the pig family.

The word “badger” means literally “a reddish object”. Deer skin or buckskin is tough, but attractive, like suede leather.  The deer was also a clean animal, that Israelites were allowed to eat.  Red Deer would fit the “reddish object” description. In Song of Solomon 2:9 the beloved, (a figure of God’s Beloved Son who has captured the hearts of His people), is likened to a roe or a young hart, which are male deer.  The idea is of one who is energetic and graceful in movement.  “Looking upon Jesus as He walked”. Psalm 42:1,2 reads, “As the hart panteth after the waterbrooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God.  My soul thirsteth for God, for the Living God.  When shall I come and appear before God?” The Arabs would tie a deer to their leading camel, because it was able to smell water from a great distance, and lead them to it. We could see in this the great desire of Christ to be in the temple, His Father’s House.  He spoke of “living water” there, John 7:38. He is found there more in John’s gospel than the other three.  John 2,3,5,7-10 all describe Him as being in the temple. So the “badgers'” skins tell of the devotion of Christ for the House of God- “the zeal of Thine house hath eaten Me up”, John 2:17.  Does the current house of God, the local assembly, have the same sort of attraction to us?  Do we long, like the psalmist, to “appear before God”? Looking upon Jesus as He walked (shod with badgers’ skins)…where dwellest Thou? John 1:35,38.

THE BOARDS: These were for the support of the inner curtain, giving it shape and structure. If the curtain = the characteristics of Christ, then the boards = the nature of Christ which under-girded the character. He possesses two natures in one person. The shittim wood, which grew up on the earth, speaks of His manhood. The gold, which did not grow but was found, and was placed in the earth by God, speaks of His God-hood. The coming together in one Person of two totally different natures.

THE SHITTIM WOOD:

1.  Grew in the harsh conditions of the desert.  “as a root out of a dry ground”, Isaiah 53:2.  Dry ground = Israel religiously; Judah regally; Nazareth morally.

2.  Not valued by men for their projects; but He was “a man approved of God”, Acts 2:22.  Stones rejected in Golgotha quarry.

3.  Not corruptible.  Not liable to decay from within- “in Him is no sin”, 1 John 3;5.  “Which of you convinceth Me of sin”? John 8:46.  “He that is without sin among you”, John 8:7.

4.  Not susceptible to attack from without- “The prince of this world cometh and hath nothing in Me”, John 14:30.  

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 10  The boards of wood and gold. Reading:  Exodus 26:15-30

SHITTIM WOOD represents the manhood of Christ as He grew up on the earth.

Not beautiful cedar from the mountains- He took the low place. He made Himself of no reputation. Not valued by experts- “We esteemed Him not”.  “Set at nought of you builders”, Acts 4:11, see verses 5,6 for the “experts”.

Not corruptible- this made Him beautiful to God and valued by God.

GOLD represents the God-hood of Christ as He was found in the earth. “We have found Him…Thou art the Son of God”, John 1:45,49. Word for gold implies it shines.  He is the brightness of the glory of God, Hebrews 1:3.

Gold is precious, the standard by which everything is judged.  “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin”, John 15:22.

Gold beautifies that which it is put upon.  “Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us”, Psalm 90:17. The word for overlay = to watch, to see.  The wood could be discerned through the gold, so the Deity of Christ did not overwhelm His manhood so that it could not be known. You could not see the wood without seeing the gold, for the two go together. Two substances of totally dissimilar nature are brought together to illustrate two natures of Christ in one Person.

The Deity of Christ in John 1:1-3. In the beginning was the Word- the eternal existence of the Word.  When the first thing that had a beginning began, He already was.  He is eternal. And the Word was with God- the distinct personality of the Word.  He is co-existent with God in eternal harmony. And the Word was God- the substantial God-hood of the Word.  He is co-equal. The same was in the beginning with God- He is eternally co-equal and co-substantial.  He did not progress into Deity. All things were made by Him- He is Creator, and therefore God.  “Unto the Son He saith, Thou Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth”, Hebrews 1:10. 

God calls the Son the Creator. We should remember the following:

1.  “For no man knoweth the Son but the Father”, Matthew 11:27, so we should expect to find this truth difficult.

2.  He gained the attributes of man without losing the attributes of God.  “He took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men”, Philippians 2:7, so He added to Himself the attributes of man. As a man standing on the earth He said “My Father worketh hitherto and I work”, and so claimed to be equal with God, John 5:17. The title Son of God denotes His Deity, as is seen by comparing John 10:33 with 36.

3.  He has united Godhood and manhood for ever in His person.  He has “come in the flesh”, 1 John 4:2,3, and continues in the flesh. “In Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily”, Colossians 2:9.  Note the present tense, and the word “bodily”.  He has God-hood and a body still.

4.  He was made flesh, so He did not assume an appearance, as angels.  He really took our nature.  This is not flesh as opposed to spirit, but spirit soul and body, all that goes to make up man in the flesh. “Power over all flesh” = over all men.

5.  He possesses Deity and manhood, yet remains one Person.  “He took upon Him the form of a servant”.  He never said “we” when referring to Himself.

6.  Both Deity and manhood may properly be ascribed to the one person.  He is not half God and half man.

 

  Tabernacle Studies  Part 11  Sockets, rings and bars.  Readings:  Exodus 30:11-16; 38:25-28; Numbers 1:45,46.

The 48 boards, (12×4), of the tabernacle represent the ordered way, (12 is the number of Divine order), Christ revealed Himself as God manifest in flesh in this world, (4 is the number of the earth). It is not difficult to find 48 instances of this in John’s Gospel.  See end of this study. The two corner boards give strength to the whole.  His person, (Only begotten Son, John 1:14), and His work, (The Lamb of God, verse 29) give support to His manifestation of God.

The materials for the tabernacle were willingly given by the Israelites. In fact, they had to be restrained from bringing, Exodus 36:4-7. 

Energetic response to God. The silver used in the sockets was different, being made of the ransom money for the men of war, Exodus 30:25. Yet they were not numbered until the second year, whereas the tabernacle was constructed in the first year.  So they responded before they had to. 

Early response to God. Christ came to give His life, but He did so according to commandment, John 10:11,18. The silver represents a willing offering, but in line with a commandment. It was an atonement (covering) because they were going to war to kill.  The silver absolved them from the charge of murder. The silver represents an appreciation of the value of life. How valuable to God was the life of His Son, “poured out…unto death”, Isaiah 53:12. The boards rested on a foundation of silver sockets.  The only link the boards had with the earth was the silver.  We are in the world to live; He was in the world to die.  “Made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death”, Hebrews 2:9. The silver was atonement for the souls of 600,000 men. The silver represents the fact that “the Son of Man came…to give His life a ransom for many”, Mark 10:45. (The ransom money was not atonement for their sins, for it was limited to those 20 and over, and was achieved by them paying it themselves).

The rings of gold: A ring represents a never-ending eternity. The bars (of wood and gold), were inserted into these, and held fast.  The Lord Jesus was aware of the Divine counsels of eternity, (the rings were entirely of gold), and was constrained by them.  “Christ, who through the eternal spirit, offered Himself to God”, Hebrews 9:14.

The four external bars: Gave strength, stability and straightness to the boards. Christ loved the Lord His God with all His heart, soul, mind and strength, Mark 12:30.

His heart- “That the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do.  Arise, let us go hence”, John 14:31.  “Many waters cannot quench love”, Song of Solomon 8:7.  The waves and billows of Calvary showed the strength of His unquenchable love.

His soul- “Now is My soul troubled…Father, glorify Thy name”, John 12:27,28.  He is concerned, not for His own soul-trouble, (for He does not ask to be delivered from it), but the Father’s glory.

His mind- “When Jesus knew that His hour was come”, John 13:1.  He was intelligent as to God’s purpose, and was determined to fulfil it, and then “go to God”.

His strength- “Jesus went forth…the cup which My Father hath given Me, shall I not drink it?” John 18:11.  Not now the agony in the garden, with the request the cup might pass, but firm resolve to drink it.

The inner bar: Unseen, but vital in keeping structure together. The will of man is the strongest part of his constitution. Seven references in John’s gospel to the will of God, and the Son’s resolve to do it.  See John 4:34; 5:21; 5:30; 6:38; 6:40; 17:24; 21:22.  

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 12  The court and gate.  Exodus 27:9-19.

Israelites- through the gate to the altar.

Aaron’s sons- through the door to the Holy Place.

Aaron– within the veil to the mercy-seat.

Believer- can now go the full way in two senses: 1.  At any one time in prayer and worship, Hebrews 10:19-22; 13:15. 2.  All the time as we “come to the Father”, John 14:6. The vessels we find on our journey help us to progress, as they tell of Christ’s ministries on our behalf. Court marked boundary between camp and tabernacle = people and God.

Court = barrier.  Gate = access point. Christ is both: His righteous life sets the unattainable standard.  But He is the Way.

FINE LINEN:  His display of righteousness, (Revelation 19:8), the result of righteous nature. “He shall reprove the world of…righteousness…because I go to My Father, and ye see Me no more”, John 16:9,10.  Implies Christ reproved the world in the matter of righteousness.  “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works”, Matthew 5:16.

Five cubits high- a wall of white linen higher than man can attain.  “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags”.

SOCKETS:  Of brass, from word for strength and lord.  Not affected by shifting sands.  His stand for righteousness.  He was strong for God, and showed lordship over all unrighteousness.

PILLARS: His firm testimony to righteousness in every circumstance, (N,S,E,W).  Not told length or shape. Made of shittim wood, (not included in items made of brass) = no tendency to decay, not liable to attack. C.f. Israel in Shittim, Numbers 25:1-9. “that we should live soberly, righteously, godly, in this present world”, Titus 2:12.

CHAPITERS = capitals.  Covered by silver from atonement money paid by warriors.  Court pillars were like 60 silver-helmeted soldiers, defending the interests of God.  His campaign against unrighteousness: Spoke against the rulers- those who sought to tower above the people: “Hypocrites!”  “Whited sepulchres!” Spoke against the priests- “Ye have made My Father’s House a den of thieves”.  Spoke against Herod- “Go, tell that fox”. Silent before High Priest when he appealed to false witnesses.  But when put on oath, declared He was coming to judge. Silent before Pilate when he accepted faulty testimony. Silent before Herod to rebuke killing of John. Silent before Pilate when he asked whence He was, for he had scourged Him as if guilty, yet said repeatedly He was not guilty. We are called to the “defence and confirmation of the gospel”, Philippians 1:7; Paul was “set, (posted as a soldier) for the defence of the gospel”, verse 17; he urged the believers to “stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, verse 27.

GATE:  If court is unattainable standard, then the gate is unmistakable opportunity, being clearly marked by blue, purple, scarlet.  Not merely a gap, but God’s demands met in Christ.  If court said “No entry”, gate said “Way in”. Same height as rest of court- God does not lower His standard to let us in.  He is just, and the justifier.

Blue:  Blue is the colour of the paved work before God’s throne.  “Access by faith into this grace wherein we stand”, Romans 5:2.

Purple:  the imperial colour.  The demands of God’s throne have been met at Calvary.

Scarlet: Gate led to altar- shedding of blood = scarlet.

Fine twined linen- “By His knowledge shall My righteous servant justify many”. His knowledge of God’s righteous demands ensures His altar-work is acceptable, and men can be justified.  

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 13 The Brazen Altar.  Readings:  Exodus 27:1-8; 29:43.

THE PURPOSE: To facilitate sacrifice.  Each of the tabernacle vessels supported something. The word altar means “slaughter place”. The altar and the gift on the altar are of equal importance, Matthew 23:16-22.  “We preach Christ crucified”.  “Determined to know nothing…save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified”.  The Person and the Work go together and must be preached together. Sacrifice and Seed of Genesis 3 are the same.

THE POSITION: Confronting  those who desired to approach God, so they knew God meets sinners in grace only on the ground of sacrifice. He meets sinners in judgement before His throne. Meeting-place between God and men, Exodus 29:43.  “There is one mediator…who gave Himself a ransom”, 1 Timothy 2:5. Note it is “men”, as individuals, not “man” as a race.  Men must come one by one. Cain came before God apart from blood-sacrifice, and was condemned.

THE PATTERN:

Made of shittim wood = incorruptible wood.  The sinlessness of Christ is vital if He is to be an acceptable sacrifice.  “It shall be perfect to be accepted”, Leviticus 22:21.

Overlaid with brass = incombustible. Two features of the nature of Christ- resists sin and resists the fire.  This is necessary combination. He resists sin to fit for the fire; He resists the fire to fit us for heaven. He alone can stand the fierceness of the fire of God’s holiness.  “Our God is a consuming fire”, Hebrews 12:29. On the altar, the fire exhausted the sacrifice; at Calvary the sacrifice exhausted the fire.

Five cubits broad and long- the extent of the need, (five cubits broad), is matched by the extent of the provision,(five cubits long). Perhaps the largest of the vessels, (although we are not told the measurements of the laver and the cherubim). The expanse that prevents, is the same as the expanse that provides.

It was foursquare- not able to be upset.  The gospel is foursquare too, “Christ died…was buried…was raised…was seen”, 1 Corinthians 15:3-5.  All four necessary, and provide an unassailable provision.

Vessels of altar listed in order of approach.  Ashes on east, then blood on side of altar, sacrifice on altar, fire ascending from the altar.

Pans to receive ashes and his shovels- sign of full acceptance.

His basons- sign of full atonement.  Sprinkled at eye-level for full assurance of offerer.

His flesh-hooks- sign of full surrender, as parts are arranged on altar.  Sacrifice was orderly, not chaotic. His firepans- sign of full testing.  Fire makes the burnt offering; destroys the sin-offering.

Staves- symbol of journey. 

Put into rings = commitment to journey to Calvary.

Grate- grate rests on ledge, so cannot move.  Fixed to rings that hold the staves.  So the journey will end with the offering reduced to ashes.  No attempt to escape arrest in garden- goes forth to meet arresting party- “I am He”.  David crossed Kidron to escape death.

Hollow with boards- good insulating properties. Made Himself of no reputation = “emptied Himself”.  Servant of vineyard owner sent away empty = not given what he should have received.  So Christ was deprived of His rights by men. He who was rich (in privilege), for our sakes became poor; that we through His poverty might be rich (in privilege). Psalm 22: Deprived of communion with God. Deprived of answer to prayers. Deprived of respect by men. Deprived of pity by man. Deprived of justice.

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 14  The laver.  Readings”  Exodus 30:17-21; 38:8; John 13:3-11.

Laver = “bored out thing” or “washbowl”, hence connection with John 13.

Of brass- the brass of the altar = Christ as one able to withstand the fire of Divine holiness.  The brass of the laver = Christ as one able to withstand the defilement of the world’s unholiness.

Brass supplied by– “women…which assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation”.  “Assemble” means “to serve in an army”, and is also used of Levites, Numbers 4:35. This is reason why the place where Christ taught was called “The Court of the Women”. These women came as near to God as they could.  Now no distinction, (truth about worship revealed to woman of Samaria).

Brass from melted-down looking-glasses-not sitting at home gazing in the mirror, but serving God in His courts. “Beholding his natural face in a glass…forgetteth what manner of man he was…but whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty”, James 1:25.

The laver showed up defilement, then provided water to wash it away. The silver was early gift from the warriors, but they knew it would be required.

This gift is entirely spontaneous. Hannah and Anna both in temple courts praying.  The prayers of the sisters are more valuable because there is less of a sense of duty than with brothers who pray audibly. Anna also “spake of Him”, Luke 2:38.

Thou shalt put it between the tabernacle…and the altar- linked with both.  “Draw near….hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water, Hebrews 10:22. Order on day of consecration of priests, and subsequently = laver then altar. But order of vessels as you approach God = altar then laver, and Hebrews 10 speaks of approach.

To wash withal- priests washed all over on day of consecration; thereafter just hands, (coming near to the altar and touching sacrifices), and feet, (going into the tabernacle and treading God’s courts).

Our day of consecration was the day of our salvation.  We were washed all over = the washing of regeneration, Titus 3:5.  Moses bathed Aaron on first day, Exodus 29:4. The Word of God applied the truth of the work of Christ to our whole persons, fitting us for a new state of regeneration. Our responsibility was repentance, a change of heart about God, Christ, sin, and self.  We renounced sin.  This is why it can be said “Ye are washed” in the Middle Voice = “ye washed yourselves”, for we did not resist the Holy Spirit any longer. “Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth”, 1 Peter 1:22. This is why Word of God needs to be taught in the gospel, so that men may know, and respond to, the truth. “He that is washed (bathed all over), needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit”, John 13:10. Subsequent cleansing of defilement is harmonising our state with our standing.  Standing = “clean every whit”.  State = “needeth…to wash his feet”.

If a person does not allow Christ to apply the Word of God to his pathway, it is because he has no share in Divine things; that is, is not a believer.  (It is not “Thou wilt not have part with Me in the future”, but “Thou hast no part with Me now”).  Judas illustrates this condition. John does not mention Lord’s Supper, but this is preparation for eating it. “Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit”, 2 Corinthians 7:1. “Let a man examine himself”, 1 Cor. 11:28. “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?  By taking heed thereto unto Thy word”, Psalm 119:9.  

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 15  The Incense Altar. Readings:  Exodus 30:1-10; Hebrews 7:20-25.

POSITION OF ALTAR OF INCENSE: 30:6  “before the vail…by the ark…before the mercy seat…where I will meet with thee”- so placed in relation to ark.

In straight line of approach- gate, brazen altar, laver, golden altar, ark. So brazen altar “before the door”, (not “before the gate”, looking back), golden altar “before the vail”, (not “before the door” looking back)- we are being encouraged in further. “Let us draw near”.

Pillars of door on sockets of brass = last warning before entering.  Brass sockets ask “Have you washed at the brass laver?” Have you fire from the brass altar? (c.f Nadab and Abihu with their strange fire). Other brass in tabernacle was taches of brass joining goats’ hair curtains.  The taches of the eleventh curtain are at the top of the pillars of the door. 

So priest looks down and is cautioned about feet-washing; he looks up and is assured of atonement. The court area was 100 x 50 cubits = two squares.  Centre of first is brazen altar; (based on analogy of temple in Jerusalem); centre of second is ark.  But incense altar is in the centre of the inside of tabernacle. 

These three vessels are central, and represent the work of Christ in the past, on earth, (brazen altar), the work of Christ in the present, in heaven, (incense altar), and the Person of Christ who is the centre of God’s purpose at all times.

PURPOSE OF ALTAR OF INCENSE: Incense is a symbol of prayer: “Let my prayer be set forth unto thee as incense”, Psalm 141:2. “The whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense”, Luke 1:10. Note that David can only say “as incense”.  He cannot stand at altar.  Nor can the multitude of Luke 1 stand there. Only the Levitical priest can offer at this altar.

The altar of incense is the means whereby the symbol of prayer can be offered to God. Christ is typified by this vessel, and the incense represents His current intercessory ministry in heaven.

PATTERN OF ALTAR OF INCENSE:

Shittim wood- Christ’s sinless perfection, with nothing to interrupt His prayer. “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me”, Psalm 66:18.  Compare with this, “I knew that Thou hearest Me always”, John 11:42. “Who shall stand in His holy place?  He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart”, Psalm 24:3.  Challenge: “I will that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands”, 1 Timothy 2:8. “Jesus…lifted up His eyes to heaven”, John 17:1.  There was no cloud between.  Aaron had to shield himself with incense before the ark, because he could not look upon God.

Pure gold- His pure nature.  He has been through the heat of His temptations down here, and no dross was found.  Christ’s sufferings and temptations fit Him to minister to our needs now.  “For in that He Himself hath suffered, being tempted, He is able to succour them that are tempted”, Hebrews 2:18. It is as a Son with His Father that He intercedes, John 17:1,9,20.  So His Deity and His manhood both render Him fit to intercede for us.

The horns shall be of the same- horns of the brazen altar = “the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth”. Power = dunamis, ability to act effectively. The four horns of the golden altar represent Christ’s power to save by His intercession.  “He is able (dunameo) to succour them that are tempted”, Hebrews 2:18.  “Wherefore He is able (dunameo) to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them”, Hebrews 7:25.  

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 16  The Incense Altar (2).  Readings;  Luke 22:31-34; John 17:1-1,20,21; Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:24,25; 1 John 2:1.

We saw from Psalm 141:2 and Luke 1:10 that incense = prayer.  The incense altar represents Christ as the one who intercedes for His own.  The incense was not to be imitated, Exodus 30:33, reminding us of Christ’s unique ministry.

Luke 22:31-34. Intercession to prevent failure. 31  Simon, Simon- the name at his natural birth.  Renamed Peter, (a stone), at his spiritual birth, John 1:42  He still had natural self within, as all believers do. Note difference between “you”, (plural) = all disciples, and “thee” (singular), Peter. Modern translations, because they reject “thou”, miss this distinction, so are not so precise. Satan hath desired to have you- note the Lord knew what Satan was demanding in heaven, as he accused before God.  See Job 1:6;2:1; Revelation 12:10. That he may sift you as wheat- wheat and chaff separated, then grain sifted to remove pieces of stone before being milled. Events of next few hours will shatter Peter, the “stone”. But I have prayed for thee- Peter singled out as leader, for disciples will not believe until Peter is convinced of resurrection. That thy faith fail not- even though he denies, he does not renounce Christ. And when thou art converted- from attitude of denial. Christ confident His intercession will succeed. Strengthen thy brethren- which he did by preaching and writing. 1 Peter 5:10.

John 17:1, 20, 21. Intercession to promote unity. Note it is the Son with His Father, reminding us of the gold of the incense altar.  And reference to earth, reminding us of the shittim wood. Neither pray I for these alone- 9-19 is prayer for apostles. That they may be one- He is requesting the coming of the Spirit, (see 14:16).

Romans 8:34 Intercession to provide confidence. Three things came in at the Fall; the flesh, a groaning creation, and Satan the adversary. All three things are against spiritual progress, and are dealt with in chapter 8. It is Christ who died- dealing judicially with our sins. That is risen again- proving His work was effective, 4:25. Who is even at the right hand of God- the place of administration and power. Who also maketh intercession for us- on the basis of the foregoing. As a result, none can rightly condemn us.

Hebrews 7:25 Intercession to preserve constancy. He continueth ever- He will never be interrupted by death. Hath an unchangeable priesthood- the one who died for us will always be our high priest. He is able to save- has power to save, hence horns (  = power) on the incense altar, sprinkled with blood of atonement. To the uttermost- believers can never get beyond the reach of His intercession, as we see with Peter and his denial.

1 John 2:1 Intercession to protect from accusation. 2:1  Write unto you, that ye sin not- the truth of chapter 1 should not make us complacent about sin.  The love of God should be the incentive to not grieve Him by sinning. If any man sin- not “when” as if expected, but “if” as unusual and out of character. We have an advocate with the Father- because Satan accuses us when we sin.  Note we do not have to ask for this advocacy, for it is constant. Jesus Christ the righteous- He will not condone sin. And He is the propitiation for our sins- He is in heaven with the marks of His sufferings upon Him.  What He did by way of propitiation is the answer to all Satan’s accusations, and thus he is constantly rebuffed. 

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 17  The Table of Shewbread.  Readings: Exodus 25:23-30; Leviticus 24:5-9; Luke 6:1-5.

Design of the table: Area of top = 2×1 cubits = 36″ x 18″.  Note small size.  On this table were 12 loaves, surrounded by a space a handbreadth wide, (= width of palm at base of fingers).  The dishes, spoons, covers, and bowls were placed on this space. Both the loaves and the border were surrounded by a golden crown.

Double purpose for the loaves: (a)  One week to be before God. (b)  The next week as food for the priests. The loaves were baked, positioned and changed on the Sabbath, Leviticus 24:8; 1 Samuel 21:6; Matthew 12:5.

Designation of the table:

(a)  The table of shewbread, Numbers 4:7. “Upon the table shewbread before Me, (My face) always”, Exodus 25:30. Shewbread means “bread of faces”, and it was set before God’s face. Shewbread in Hebrews 9:2 means “the setting forth of the loaves”. The twelve loaves represented the twelve tribes arranged in God’s presence. At Jacob’s bedside the faces of his 12 sons were looking at him.  There was shame on face of Reuben because of Bilhah; on the face of Simeon and Levi because of Dinah; on the faces of Judah and the others because of their betrayal of Joseph. Now the 12 faces have frankincense on them, and they are accepted before God. Frankincense was “for a memorial”- Jacob remembered the evil things about his sons, God remembers the devotion of His Son when He was here, and looks at His people in the light of it. Each one of the loaves was visible, for they were in two rows, not two piles. The other place where the tribes were arranged 6×2 was on the high priest’s shoulders, the place of strength. The names were according to their birth, so the emphasis was on having the life of the father.  All believers are God’s sons, and are represented equally by our high priest in heaven. The Lord Jesus appears “in the presence of God for us”, Hebrews 9:24, and His frankincense-like acceptability to God is our guarantee.  The word “shewbread” is connected to the Hebrew verb “to appear”.

(b)  The table, Exodus 37:10; 40:4. “Table” is connected with food; e.g. “Can God furnish a table in the wilderness?” Not a lavish banquet, but wholesome food for priestly men.  There were no chairs, for they did not eat at the table, although they did eat in the holy place, Leviticus 24:9. After David had eaten the shewbread he wrote, “Taste and see that the Lord is good”, Psalm 34:8, (see title, and 1 Samuel 21:13-15). Peter quotes these words when he is writing about the Christian priesthood, 1 Peter 2:3.  If we are to be energised to worship God, then we must feed our souls on the food He provides. The shewbread was a meal offering, and the priests had the privilege of sharing what had been prepared for God. No honey to please natural taste; no leaven to make an attractive loaf.  Oil and fine flour make spiritual food.

(c)  The pure table before the Lord, Leviticus 24:6. Emphasis on fact that nothing impure must be put there.  Being before the Lord meant His eye was upon it, and He is “of purer eyes than to behold evil”, Habakkuk 1:13.  “Pure table”; “pure frankincense”; “pure gold”. God only feeds our souls with that which speaks of Christ. “Whatsoever things are…pure…think on these things”, Philippians 4:8.  We must not associate impure things with the things of God.  Our minds should be full of the things of Christ so we are strengthened to worship God aright.  

 

Tabernacle Studies  Part 18  The Table of Shewbread (2).  Reading:  John 6:47-58.

Shewbread loaves on second week = food of the priests. Christ is the true bread, symbolised by: Manna around camp = verses 30-40.  Bread from heaven. Sacrifice on altar in court, (called “The bread of their God”, Leviticus 21:6).                                                                  

Flesh given in sacrifice, verse 51.

Loaves on table + bowls (for blood-sprinkling) = Truth about Christ in life and death available to feed our souls, 53-57. Pot of manna in Holiest of All = Christ the hidden manna, Revelation 2:17 = Christ occupying our minds in eternity verse 62.

Lord’s Table and Lord’s Supper not the same.  1 Cor. 10/11. Lord’s Table and Cup of the Lord mean separate things, 1 Corinthians 10:21.

Lord’s table = His total provision for the support and nourishment of every believer, as the truths surrounding His life on earth are taken in.  “Eat My flesh”.

Cup of the Lord = the truths surrounding His death.  “Drink My blood”. Start to eat at Lord’s Table the moment you are saved. 

Possible to eat at the Lord’s Table and never eat the Lord’s Supper. Loaves separate from both the bowls for blood-sprinkling and the cups for drink-offerings. (“Covers” = cups for drink offering, poured out in holy place at time of evening sacrifice, Numbers 28:7).

John 6 is about the Lord’s Table.  The Institution of Lord’s Supper is not in John, to maintain the distinction.   The feet-washing is to prepare for eating the Supper.

In 50-53, and 58, “eat” means to put into mouth.  Tense denotes once for all action.  The sinner taking the bread of life.

In 54-57 “eat” is chew.  Tense denotes constant action, the saint enjoying the bread of life. 53 Bread and drink that are indispensable. Unless you are chewing this flesh and drinking this blood, you are not believers.  So test is what they habitually do.

Eat flesh- take in and enjoy in the soul the things pertaining to Christ as a man living down here.

Drink blood- take in the truth of His death and its consequences. By means of the giving up of His Person, and the giving up of His life, Christ makes the truth real and apparent to the true believer.

54-Bread and drink that sustain eternal life. Double promise to those who do this: (a) Have eternal life now. (b) Will have resurrection life.  Persons with eternal life in their souls cannot be left in the grave.

55- Bread and drink that is real and genuine, (“indeed” = truly, really).  Genuine and worthwhile food and drink.  Lasting satisfaction to the soul.  Will never be superseded, because reality has arrived, as it had not with the manna.

56- Bread and drink that give assurance.  Constant eating and drinking is sign of life, as in natural world. Dwelleth in Me = resting in who and what He is. And I in Him- for food becomes part of us, so Christ becomes our life. “Christ liveth in me”, Galatians 2:20. Realised by indwelling of Spirit, “We will come and make our abode with him” John 14:23. “If any man have not Spirit of Christ…and if Christ be in you”, Romans 8:9,10. 57-“I live by the Father”- Christ was sustained by word from His Father, so we.  This shows the words of 47-58 are not natural.  “It is the Spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing: the words I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life”.

 

  Tabernacle Studies  Part 19 The lampstand.  Reading:  Exodus 37:17-24.

The lampstand, the altar and the table, symbolise the current ministry of the Lord Jesus in heaven, as the one who represents us, and ministers to our needs.

Position of the lampstand: In Holy Place.  Vessels in court = Christ’s work on earth.  Vessels in tabernacle = Christ’s work in heaven.  “Entered…into heaven itself, now to appear (shine) in the presence of God, (like the loaves), for us” (as counterpart to altar of incense, interceding), Hebrews 9:24.

On south side, over against the table, Exodus 26:35. The lamps gave light over against the lampstand, Exodus 25:37. So all three vessels were lit up by the lamps, and were thereby linked together.

Purpose of the lampstand: As far as Israel was concerned:

The lamp was a constant testimony that God would introduce the Messiah, Genesis 15:17; Isaiah 62:1. As far as we are concerned:

(a)  To shine in the presence of God.  The light would cause the frankincense on the loaves to sparkle.

(b)  To assist priestly activity at the altar and table.  He ministers in the light of who He is.

(c)  To display its own glory.  He has the glory of being recognised for who He is, as on earthly He did not.  This is the aspect of glory He asked for in John 17:5.  He did not lose the glory of Deity, (see John 2:11), but He did lose the recognition of it that He had enjoyed in heaven. Light = testimony, and only Divine persons may give testimony concerning themselves.  So when Christ did this it was a claim to Deity, John 8:12-14.

Pattern of the lampstand:

(a)  Made entirely of gold.  Emphasis on Deity of Christ.  “God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all”, 1 John 1:5- so since Christ is “True God and eternal life”, 1 John 5:20, then light is expression of His Person. He ever shone as the light; His intercession and provision depend on His incarnation, hence the altar and the table of wood as well as gold.

(b)  Was measured by weight, not height.  Gold speaks of Divine glory, and the word glory is connected with the word heavy.

(c)  Was made of beaten work.  The beauty was the result of suffering.  The Lord Jesus has been made perfect or fully qualified for His present ministry by “the things that He suffered”, Hebrews 2:10; 5:9. “His visage was so marred…it pleased the Lord to bruise Him”, Isaiah 62:14; 53:10.

(d)  Was a beautiful almond tree. Not a shittim tree of the desert, but an almond suited to Canaan, Genesis 43:11. The word for almond = to wake, watch.  Being the first tree to bloom, it watches for the new season after the darkness of the winter, and awakes first.  See Jeremiah 1:11,12. Christ is “the first of them that should rise from (among) the dead”, Acts 26:23. Shittim tree = Christ in His life of humiliation; almond tree = Christ in His resurrection and ascended glory.

(e)  Was beautifully ornamented.  The time for humiliation is over for Christ, and He shines in all His glory in heaven. There were no leaves, for that represents barrenness and false profession, Matthew 21:19. The knops were like swelling buds, showing vigour of life is within.  “The power of an endless life”, Hebrews 7:16. The flowers were unfading, for they were made of gold.  “The grace of the fashion of it” does not perish, James 1:11.  His glories will be admired by us eternally, John 17:24. The bowls were like almonds, for the tree has achieved its object, and borne fruit.    

Tabernacle Studies Part 20
The Lampstand (2) John 1:4-9.

There were seven lamps on the lampstand, and John refers to Christ as the Light in seven places in his gospel. He thereby shows us the character of the One who appears (shines) in heaven for us, Hebrews 9:24. His people are those who have met the test of the light, 1 John 1:7.

(i) John 1:4-9: Light not comprehended:
The pre-incarnate activity of the Word.
1:4 In Him was life; and the life was the light of men- God is light, and therefore when He manifests His life He manifests His light. The Word was making God known all through the O.T.
Light radiates, illuminates, investigates, and discriminates.
Creation: “That which may be known of God is manifest in them…for the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made”, Romans 1:19,20.
Men are without excuse, even though they think they have an excuse in evolution.
Provision: “Nevertheless He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness”, Acts 14:17.
Intervention: Expulsion from Eden; judgement of Babel; destruction of Sodom; plagues on Egypt; Exodus from Egypt; captivity of Israel. “The Lord is known by the judgement which He executeth”, Psalm 9:16.
Instruction: Through prophets, from Abel downwards; (Adam, Enoch and Methuselah span Creation to Flood); through law at Sinai; tabernacle worship; John, verse 6-8.

1:5 And the light shineth in darkness- knowledge and ignorance coexist.
The darkness comprehended it not- light is person, so is darkness. John reviews 4000 years and uses past tense. Always true. This shows need for Word to come in person.

(ii) John 3:18-21 Light hated:
Night scene. Test for Nicodemus; is he seeking light?
Son not sent to condemn, 17, but to save.
But reaction to His coming determines.
To believe is to be free of condemnation. Word “not” means “absolutely not”.
He that believeth not is condemned already- (self-judged by his own act of refusal).
Not believed on the name of the only-begotten Son of God- the greater the person, the greater the crime of unbelief.
Since to be Son of God is to be God, and therefore light, (for God is light), rejection of Him is rejection of the light.
3:19 This is condemnation = the means by which decision is reached.
Light is come into the world- presence of Christ here is ultimate test.
Men loved darkness- John looks back.
3:20 For- this is the reason for love of darkness.
Every one that doeth evil hateth the light- light here is righteousness, the opposite of evil. Doeth = habitually sins.
3:21 He that doeth truth cometh to the light- a believer is comfortable in the light even now, and to “draw near”.
Deeds wrought in God- deeds done in good of fact that God is light. Children of light produce fruit of the Spirit, Eph. 5:8.

(iii) John 8:12-18. Light testifying.
At feast of tabernacles great lampstands erected in temple courts to remind of pillar of fire in desert, but now feast is over.
8:12 I am the light of the world- claim based on Deity, so “I am” is significant. Lampstands only for Jerusalem; pillar of fire only for Israel, Christ is for all.
He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness- even though it is dark in the world.
But shall have the light of life- light upon the pathway of life as we follow His example.
8:13 Pharisees…Thou bearest record of Thyself…not true- testimony of accused not accepted in Jewish law unless supported by another. But Father testifies of Him.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 21
The Lampstand (3) John 9:4,5; 11:8-10; 12:35,36; 12:42-46.

John 1: Light is expression of His life.
John 3: Light shines on those who love it.
John 8: Light bears witness to itself.
These things are still true, as Christ “shines” for His people in God’s presence.

(iv) John 9:4,5 The light diligent.
9:4 I must work- determination to do the will of God, (“must”).
The works of Him that sent Me- devoted to His Father. Dedicated to His mission.
While it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work- He knew His time was limited. We should be “redeeming the time, for the days are evil”, Ephesians 5:16. Selling the hours of the day to the highest bidder = God.
The same determination, devotion and dedication mark Him now in heaven, as He appears in the presence of God for us, Hebrews 9:24.

9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world- there is no substitute for Christ; if He goes, the light goes. He shines all the time He is here.
In lesser sense, we should “shine as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life”, Philippians 2:15,16. John the Baptist was a “burning and a shining light”, as he “bare witness unto the truth”, John 5:33,35.

(v) John 11:8-10 The light intelligent.
11:8 If any man walk in the day he stumbleth not- He will go to Judea even though it was dangerous, verse 8, because He walked in the light (“day”) of His Father’s will, and so nothing could stumble Him. 11:4.
But if a man walk in the night- that is, treads a pathway of disobedience to God.
He stumbleth, because there is no light in him- so the light is within, and so is the darkness. If light = insight, then darkness = ignorance. The light is within; that is, it is insight, that comes through having eternal life.
The pathway Christ took was in perfect knowledge of His Father’s will. He acts according to that perfect will still.

(vi) John 12:35,36 The light withdrawn.
12:35 Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you- far from abiding for ever amongst them, verse 34, He would soon leave the nation. “Abiding for ever” = kingdom age. The light of His glory is withdrawn whilst they are in national unbelief.
Walk while ye have the light- there was still the opportunity to walk in the light of His person and teaching.
Lest darkness come upon you- the darkness of national rejection after AD 70. See Isaiah 50:10,11.
For he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth- “blindness in part is happened to Israel”, Romans 11:25.

12:36 While ye have light, believe in the light- this explains that walking in the light = personal faith. They thought that the light would shine upon them simply because they were of the seed of Abraham.
That ye may be the children of light- believing in the light brings with it the responsibility of taking character from the light in terms of purity and holiness.
These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide Himself from them- gives them a brief interval when they may learn what His absence is like.
Unlike Israel nationally, we have the constant shining of the light for us.

(vii) John 12:48 The light unbiased.
12:46 I am come a light into the world- with Israel in national unbelief His mission to the world can progress.
That whosoever believeth on Me- even individuals in Israel can still believe. The seriousness of unbelief is seen in verse 44, for it is not believing the Father.
Should not abide in darkness- of unbelief and ignorance.
The light does not shine in a biased way. All who believe, whether Jew or Gentile before, are represented by Christ equally.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 22 The Ark Exodus 25:10-16.

Coverings = Character of Christ.
Boards = Nature of Christ.
Vessels in court = His past work on earth.
Vessels in Holy Place = His present work in heaven.
Vessel in Holy of Holies = Person of Christ ever fit for God’s presence.

FEATURES OF THE ARK:
(a) The ark symbolises the person of Christ in relation to God, and also His ability to support the work of propitiation.
(b) The first vessel to be described, before the structure is detailed. God begins with Himself and His interests, and so should we. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God…”
(c) “Tabernacle epistle”, (Hebrews), begins with word “God”.
“Tabernacle gospel”, (John); Christ’s first discourse is about Himself and His Deity.
(d) A chest to hold the tables of testimony. “Testimony” emphasises God’s precepts, “covenant” emphasises God’s promises.
(e) A combination of wood and gold, (His Deity and manhood), and also a combination with the mercy seat, (His person and work).
Specially connected with God:
(a) When Israel took the ark into field of battle, Philistines said, “God is come into the camp”, 1 Samuel 4:3-7. (“Without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness”– so Deity of Christ not a matter of conflict, but acceptance).
(c) When Philistines captured the ark, “the glory is departed”, 1 Samuel 4:21. (C.f. “took Jesus, and bound him, and led Him away”, John 18:12).
“He forsook the tabernacle of Shiloh…and delivered His strength into captivity, and His glory into the enemy’s hand”, Psalm 78:60,61. Reference is to the ark.
FUNCTION OF THE ARK:
(a) A rebuke to the heathen, who kept an idol in their sanctuaries. “Salvation (from idols) is of the Jews”, John 4:22.
(b) A keeping-place for the tables of testimony. The people had broken the law, but ark contained unbroken tables. “I delight to do Thy will, O my God: yea, Thy law is within My heart”, Psalm 40:8. Yet these words are omitted in Hebrews 10:7,9, for Christ came in grace.
He magnified the law and made it honourable, Isaiah 42:21, but did so with grace and truth, John 1:17.
(c) A secure place for the mercy-seat.
(i) The crown of gold was no doubt a raised beading to ensure mercy seat was aligned with precision as it was lowered onto the ark. We may be confident that the work of Calvary was done with attention to detail.
(ii) This ensured the tables were not at all visible, to condemn.

FORWARD MARCH OF THE ARK:
Staves suggest idea of pilgrimage- “I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father”, John 16:28.
Staves/rings take up more than half of the passage.
The rings were cast, so there was no point of weakness. The eternal and unbreakable purpose of God constrained Christ in His movements.
Staves inserted = commitment to God’s will, whatever it meant.
Rings in four corners- stable. Assailed by men and devils but not upset.
Rings each side- balanced. “Full of grace and truth”. “Full” relates to both.
Not taken from it- “I must walk today…third day perfected”.
When ark was placed in temple, staves were pulled through the rings so they could be seen out in the Holy Place, 1 Kings 8:8. Constant reminder of the journey of Christ through this world.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 23 The mercy-seat. Exodus 25:17-22; Romans 3:21-26b

The purpose:
1. To be the place where the blood of atonement was sprinkled, Leviticus 16:14. Because of this, there was mercy for Israel, and this was the seat or place where it was made known. It is not a seat in the modern sense.
2. To be the symbol of Christ as the one competent to make propitiation. The mercy-seat is described by the word “propitiatory,” (the place for propitiation), in Hebrews 9:5. It was the place where this was effected on the Day of Atonement.
“Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation (place of propitiation) through faith in His blood”, Romans 3:24,25. He is the personal means whereby propitiation is achieved.

Propitiation is “that aspect of the work of Christ at Calvary whereby He gave to God the full and final satisfaction with regard to all the sins of men”.

WHY IS PROPITIATION NECESSARY?
1. Because sins offend God, Habakkuk 1:13.
2. Because as the Moral Governor of the universe He must act, Exodus 34:7.
3. Because there must be a just basis to deal with men, Romans 3:26.
4. To build a sure foundation for justification, Luke 18:13,14.
5. To break the cycle of sin, Revelation 21:4.

The pattern:
1. The basis of the m/s is a solid slab of gold. As with the lampstand, there is no wood in this item. The emphasis is on the glory of God as expressed in, and defended by, the Son of God at Calvary.
He is “the brightness of the glory” of God, and the “express image of His person”, Hebrews 1:3. It was as the Heir, the Creator, the Brightness, the Expression, the Upholder, (all titles that He had before He
became man), who “by Himself” purged our sins. What He is in Himself gives infinite value to His work.

2. The m/s was exactly the same length and breadth as the ark. The crown of the ark ensured that the mercy-seat was positioned correctly. The person of Christ and the work of Christ are perfectly matched. He is great enough for the work, and the work is as great and important as He is. If we can limit Christ, we can limit His work.
The alignment of the m/s also ensured that man was not exposed to the tables of the law.

3. No depth of the m/s is given, although Bezaleel must have known it. Who can measure the depth of the mercy of God, since He has provided such a full answer to sin? He is the propitiation …for the sins of the whole world”, 1 John 2:2.

4. Two cherubim were fashioned so as to rise out of the m/s, and they faced inwards and downwards, gazing on where the blood was sprinkled.
Lucifer was an anointed cherub that covered the throne of God, symbolically protecting it. In the event, he attacked the throne and all it represented.
The cherubim defend the honour of God, (Genesis 3:24), whereas the seraphim defend His holiness, (Isaiah 6:2,3.
As we saw with the inner curtain, Christ has replaced the cherubim as the defenders of the honour of God. This is emphasised by fact that cherubim are part of the m/s itself.
He honoured God in life, John 8:49, and pre-eminently in death. “Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in Him”, John 13:31.

5. Just as the cherubim faced the blood-sprinkled m/s, so our Advocate with the Father points to the value of His shed blood when our adversary accuses us, Revelation 12:10.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 24 The Day of Atonement. Leviticus 16:1-10.

The mercy-seat was central to the ceremony of the Day of Atonement.
Mercy-seat = kapporeth, “a place of covering”. First mention = the pitch put on Noah’s ark to protect from the waters of wrath, Genesis 6:14. That covering was neither temporary nor provisional.

It was the seat (site) where propitiation was made by sprinkled blood, so that mercy could be shown.
In Hebrews 9:5, mercy-seat = place of propitiation, which is Godward aspect.
The manward aspect is atonement, or reconciliation, the bringing together of estranged parties. Compare verse16 (atonement) with verse 20 (reconciling).
We “receive the atonement”, Romans 5:11, when we repent and believe the gospel and are reconciled to God. Propitiation was made at Calvary; atonement, (reconciliation) is received at conversion.

NECESSARY DAY:
1. Because two sons of Aaron had offered strange fire, verse 1. The other two sons and Aaron had failed to eat the sin-offering, Levicus 10:16-20. So the Levical priesthood was a failure from the outset, hence special offerings for Aaron and his family were needed.
2. Because God needed to clear Himself of any charge of complicity with sin, when He dwelt among the camp of Israel, verse 16.
(Cf. John 1:14 and 29; where Christ vindicated too, despite tabernacling amongst sinful men).
3. Because those who functioned in the tabernacle were sinners, so it needed to be cleansed, verse 16. C.f. Hebrews 9:23, and see Ezkiel 28:18 and context.

NOTABLE DAY:
Jews called it “The Day”, for everything depended on it. The presence of God, the continuance of the nation, the cleansing of the sanctuary, and the covering of the sins of the people, were all secured by blood.
NATIONAL DAY:
“for the people”, 15. The work was done for the nation, and those in Israel who did not afflict their souls, (repent), and cease from work, (faith, Romans 4:5), forfeited the blessing, verses 29,30.
Israelites opt out by no repentance and no faith. Sinners opt in to Calvary by repentance and faith.
Christ’s work was for the world- “He is propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world”, 1 John 2:2. Sinners gain the benefit through faith. The propitiation needs to be for the sins of the whole world to maintain God’s honour. He must be seen to be able to provide a response to every sin.

It is important to notice the following:
1. Hebrews 7:28 states that the word of the oath that made Christ a High Priest, was “since the law”. This does not mean “since the law was given at Sinai”, but “since the law-age was ended”. Christ ended the age of the law when He died. “But after that faith (in a crucified and risen Saviour) is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster (the law)”, Galatians 3:23.
So Christ was not a high priest on earth.

2. Aaron needed to function because animals could not bring themselves. Animals needed because Aaron was sinful.
Christ offered Himself, Hebrews 9:14, which means He presented Himself for sacrifice without the need of a priest. Offer means “to bring near”, not “to burn on the altar”. The wise men offered (brought near) gold.

3. What happened at the altar, the mercy-seat, outside the camp, the wilderness, all contribute to telling us of Calvary.
Aaron, 5 offerings, fit man, other man, all contribute to tell us of Christ.

4. Not chronological, because going outside camp = Christ going forth to die, whereas burning of carcase was near the end in Leviticus 16, with coming forth in glory and beauty = His coming to reign.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 25 Day of Atonement (2) Leviticus 16:1-10.

1. Notable, necessary, national day.
2. What happened at altar, mercy-seat, outside camp, in the wilderness all speak of Calvary. Not fulfilled chronologically.
3. O.T. teaches mainly by contrast.

16:1-2 Failure of all the priests means Day of Atonement is needed.
A priest freshly atoned-for acts for the nation, to allow God to continue with them.
“come not at all times”, compare “let us draw near”, Hebrews 10:22.

16:3 Aaron to come into holy place with bullock and ram. It is only their blood that comes, but blood stands for life of animal given up. Aaron’s life not acceptable, so needs a substitute. Christ offered Himself = presented Himself for sacrifice.

16:4 Aaron’s character not suitable.
Clothing = character.
Holy garments- more holy than Aaron, so he needs to wash before he puts them on.
He is not fit morally, only ceremonially.
Christ is “holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners”, Hebrews 7:26.

Holy linen coat- symbolical of holiness,(fit to enter Holy of Holies), and symbolical of righteousness, (so qualified to deal with sin.
Christ’s spotlessness.

Linen breeches upon his flesh– c.f. Adam and his apron. Said he was naked after he had made apron. Still afraid of God. God can only be approached in righteousness.
Christ’s suitability. His communion was never broken, unlike Adam’s.

Linen girdle- symbol of service. Gathers clothes together for unhindered action. Christ came not to ministerd unto, but to minister, and give His life a ransom. Christ’s service at Calvary.

Mitre- symbol of subjection. Man wore head-covering in O.T. but Christ has introduced new level of subjection, so man is uncovered now, and woman shows subjection . “The head of Christ is God”.
Christ’s subjection.

1. Sin offering brought near (offer), 6. Animals cannot bring themselves, Aaron cannot die for sins. Animal is Aaron’s substitute. The blood of bulls and goats were only effective because of what they spoke of to God.
2. Aaron lays hands on bullock, (see 4:4). His sins are figuratively transferred to animal. Animal is now made sin, and treated accordingly. “He (God) hath made Him to be sin for us”, 2 Corinthians 5:21.
3. Animal slain- Aaron has now died in his substitute. The wages of sin (the sin-principle) is death. Sin-principle spoils sanctuary, death deals with it.
4. Aaron enters Holiest with incense. Aaron cannot look upon God so is protected by cloud of incense, (“that he die not”, as his sons did).
Incense is symbol of virtues of Christ expressed in His life.
Aaron’s censer is full of coals, his hands are full of incense. Incense protects Aaron from glory, but Christ is brightness of glory. Christ accepted at Calvary because of the value of His life. Bowl is full, for all virtues found in Him.
The incense is put on fire in Holiest- so all is for God.
5. Blood sprinkled on mercy-seat once- this is for the eye of God.
Only a few drops needed = quality not quantity. “Precious blood of Christ”: valuable, special , memorable.
6. Blood sprinkled on ground 7x- for feet of man. 7 = satisfied, complete. Loved them to the uttermost. Perfect standing on the basis of a sin-offering accepted. “This grace wherein we stand”, Romans 5:2.
7. Brings in blood of goat and does the same- priest and people are alike sinful.
Aaron emerges from tabernacle- sign that he has not died, for blood has been accepted and people are safe.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 26 Day of Atonement (3) Leviticus 16:20 to 28.

Two goats make one sin offering, verse 5.
1. Slain goat- to make propitiation for sins = Godward. Sent goat- to bear sins for nation.
2. Slain goat = death of Christ. Sent goat = sufferings of Christ.
3. Fact that two goats make one offering shows they must not be separated. Fact that different things happened to each shows they must be distinguished.
4. Both subject of Divine choice by lot = God’s determinate counsel, Acts 2:23. “Ought not Christ to have suffered these things? Luke 24:26. Ought = owe it; the purpose of God put Him under obligation.

Double types- each supplies lack in other, e.g. Abel/Seth; Isaac/ ram; Judah/Joseph; dead bird/living bird, (Leviticus 14).

Fit man and the scapegoat.
1. Goat not aware it must go where it cannot return. Fit man is aware.
2. Goat is not able to find that place; fit man is.
3. Man cannot bear load of sins, goat can.
4. Goat does not come back, man does.

Christ as the Fit Man:
1. Totally sinless. “He did no sin” = fitness displayed by His life. Then “bare our sins”, sins borne on the cross, 1 Peter 2:22,24.
2. Fully intelligent. As one of Godhead, knew God’s demands regarding sin.
3. Standing ready. “There standeth one among you…behold the lamb of God…beareth away…” John 1:26,29.
4. Fully committed. “Lo I come…to do Thy will”, Hebrews 10:9.
5. Completely obedient. “as I have received commandment, even so I do”, John 14:31.
6. Knows the wilderness. Comes from wilderness to John who exclaims, “Behold the Lamb of God…” John 1:29.
7. Completely successful- returns from place of separation without goat. This shows forsakenness is over for Christ.
Christ as the scapegoat:
1. “Confess over him”. “The Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all”, Isaiah 53:6. All iniquities = against character of God. Lack of ability to assess aright. All transgressions = against rule of God. Lack of obedience. In all their sins = against glory of God. Lack of reverence.
2. “Send him away” = same word as Genesis 3:23. “drove out the man”.
3. “He shall let go the goat”.
Land not inhabited- “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me”, Psalm 22:1.
Inhabited by Him for those hours, that we might be in heaven for eternity.
In land of separation, so that we might be close to God for ever.

Un-named man and carcases:
1. Carried outside camp to show God’s distaste for sin. Jesus…suffered without the gate”, Hebrews 13:12.
2. Body burnt (a) blood must have been accepted in sanctuary, Hebrews 13:11.
(b) Burning = suffering under fire of wrath of God. Animal dead when burnt, Christ alive and alert, (refused stupifying drink).
3. Carcases burnt on ground, same time as burnt offering burnt on altar and ascends upwards, verse 24. Both aspects of work of Christ represented. Burnt offering = willing offering giving delight to Father, (Aaron merely carrying out duty).
4. Skins burnt = display of our sinful character dealt with. Carcases burnt = doing of sinful deeds. Dung burnt = distastefulness of our sinful lives. Wrath of God exhausted. Fire consumed the animal; Christ consumed the fire.

Challenge to Hebrews, and us:
“Let us go therefore unto Him”, Hebrews 13:13.

Aaron, fit man, and unnamed man all come back from where they went.
1. Aaron with garments of glory and beauty. Leaves other garments in sanctuary- His life always remembered.
2. Fit man without goat and sins.
3. Unnamed man without carcase.
Chapter begins with failure of Levitical priests, ends with successful and final work of Christ.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 27 Holy priesthood. 1 Peter 1:22-2:5.

Epistle to the Hebrews does not call believers priests, but note the following:
1. “a better hope, by which we draw nigh to God”, Hebrews 7:19. The Levitical priests had no prospect (hope) of drawing near to the mercy-seat.
2. “For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices…somewhat to offer, 8:3. Our gifts are brought near through our high priest. If we have nothing in our hearts, He has nothing in His hands to offer.
3. “purge you conscience from dead works to serve the living God”, 9:14. Dead works = old system. Conscience purged from any misgivings about leaving temple.
4. “that…they which are called may receive the promise of eternal inheritance”, 9:15.   Levitical priests had no land as inheritance, for God and the sacrifices were their inheritance, Deuteronomy 18:1,2.
5. “having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus”, 10:19. Not the boldness of Nadab and Abihu, who had a right to come but came with strange fire; or Uzziah who had no right to come.
6. “Let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear”, 12:28. Our God is still a consuming fire, (c.f. fire from Lord in Leviticus 10), and He burns up what is not suitable.
7. By Him, therefore, let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually”, 13:15. Since the praise is continual, it can be offered after temple was destroyed. (“Here we have no continuing city”- Jerusalem about to be destroyed).

Israel were intended to be a nation of priests, Exodus 19:6, but broke the covenant at Sinai.
Levi sided with Moses, and Aaron gained the priesthood. Levitical priesthood based on natural birth.
Peter emphasises new birth:
1. “Begotten us again”, 1:3.
2. “As obedient children”, 1:14.
3. “And if ye call on the Father”, 1:17.
4. “Being born again”, 1:23.
5. “As new-born babes”, 2:2.
6. “lively stones…spiritual house”, 2:5.
7. “A chosen generation”, 2:9. (Quote from Exodus 19).

2:1 Wherefore- in view of what has gone before in chapter 1.
Laying aside- the garments of former life discarded, and holy, priestly garments put on. Put off the old man, put on the new.
All malice…all evil speakings- these are corrupt and corrupting. Word of God produces an incorruptible seed, 1:23.

2:2 As newborn babes- not babes in 1 John 2 and 1 Corinthians 3 sense. We should never lose the eagerness for food that a healthy baby has.
Desire the sincere milk of the word- food supports life, whether natural or spiritual.
The word of God is sincere = pure, and produces the opposite of verse 1 in our hearts.

2:3 if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious- this is quote from Psalm 34:8, written when David had eaten the shewbread, the food of the priests, 1 Samuel 21:13-15. Man of Judah eats bread for Levi = grace. Those born of God should be gracious too.

2:4 To whom coming- initially and constantly.
As unto a living stone- word for stone and son in Hebrew is the same. The priestly house is built on Christ.
Are built up a spiritual house- not the house of Aaron, but God.
A holy priesthood- set apart to worship God.
To offer up spiritual sacrifices- this is why we have been given life, so as to function as priests. Sacrifices- self, Romans 12:1; service, Romans 1:9; silver, Hebrews 13:16; praise, Hebrews 13:15; worship, John 4:23, Philippians 3:3.
Acceptable to God by Jesus Christ- He acts as mediator of our worship, His person making our feeble worship acceptable to God.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 28 Holy Priesthood (2) 1 Peter 1:1-10.

God has secured an incorruptible seed (family, generation, those born again), by the agency of the living and abiding word of God, which is preached by the gospel.

2:1 Wherefore- in view of what has gone before in chapter 1, showing that we are born again, and have life from God.
Laying aside- the garments of former life discarded, and holy, priestly garments put on. Our old man = former self as a sinner with links to Adam. New man = present self as believer with links to Christ.
Our old man is crucified, and we are a new creation in Christ, 2 Corinthians 5:17.
But we still have the same body, which is the head-quarters of the sin-principle. So we are able to adopt the characteristics of the old man still, as if we wear the garments of the malefactors.
We should put off these, and put on the garments (characteristics) of Christ. Aaron’s sons wore garments to fit them ritually, our robes (character) should display what we are in Christ actually.

Laying aside- as garments are discarded when no longer needed.
All malice = every aspect of bad intent.
And all guile = deceit. C.f. verse 22, “neither was guile found in His mouth”.
And hypocrisies = play-acting, the wearing of a mask. Living a double life.
And envies = feeling of displeasure when others make progress.
And all evil speakings = seeking to drag others down. Result of envy.
All these are features of those not born again, and should be discarded.
The word of God produces an incorruptible seed, who grow in Christ-likeness.

2:2 As newborn babes- not babes in 1 John 2 and 1 Corinthians 3 sense. We should never lose the eagerness for food that a healthy baby has.
Desire the sincere milk of the word- food supports life, whether natural or spiritual.
The word of God is sincere = pure, the opposite of “guile” in verse 1.
It is the milk of the word, which feeds the mind and affects the life and character.

That ye may grow thereby- word of God is living, and as we read we grow, if we desire to do so. Ritual reading is mere religion.

2:3 if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious = quote from Psalm 34:8, written when David had eaten the shewbread, the food of the priests, 1 Samuel 21:13-15. Man of Judah eats bread for Levi = grace. Those born of God have known grace, and should therefore be gracious = opposite of verse 1.

2:4 To whom coming- initially and constantly. Stones for Solomon’s temple were shaped before they were laid on the foundation.
As unto a living stone- word for stone and son in Hebrew is the same. The priestly house is built on who Christ is.
Are built up a spiritual house- not the house of Aaron, but God. Christ is Son over God’s house, Hebrews 3:6. Next verse says, “Today, if ye will hear His voice…” He supervises the priestly house through His word to us. C.f. Leviticus 10:3.
Verses 6-8 use O.T. scripture to show that the stones are chosen (verse 9), and precious (verse 7), like Christ is, so they fit well on the foundation.

A holy priesthood- set apart to worship God. “Minister unto Me in the priest’s office”, Exodus 28:1.
To offer up spiritual sacrifices- this is why we have been given life, so as to function as priests.
Sacrifices: (i) self, Romans 12:1. (ii) service, Romans 1:9. (iii) silver, Hebrews 13:16. (iv) praise, Hebrews 13:15. (v) worship, John 4:23, Philippians 3:3. (vi) showing the virtues of Christ, 1 Peter 2:9.
Acceptable to God by Jesus Christ- He acts as mediator of our worship, and as Mediator He makes our feeble worship acceptable to God, Hebrews 8:3,6.

 

Tabernacle Studies Part 29 Worship. Leviticus 1:1-9.

In the tabernacles system, responsibility for sacrifice was shared by priest and Israelite.
This was a sign of weakness.
Christians are all priests as born again.

Those who came to altar are called worshippers, Hebrews 10:1,2. They could come no further- we enter holiest.
They came with sin offerings, but now there is no longer sacrifice for sins, “for where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin”, Hebrews 10:18.
Our worship is symbolised by the sweet-savour offerings = burnt, meal and peace offerings. Only those whose sins were forgiven could bring these.
First mention of worship is when Abraham is commanded to offer his son. We worship when we present to God thoughts about His Son.

1:1 And- shows connection with Exodus, with its completed tabernacle and consecrated priests.
The Lord called…out of the tabernacle- He was inviting near. C.f. God walking with Adam in garden. This is why God made man, to commune with Him intelligently.
Lord Jesus said, “The Father seeketh worshippers”. He longs for us to glorify Him. Highest expression is worship.
Thanks = recognition of His blessings.
Praise = recognition of His works.
Worship = recognition of His person.
To do this we must worship by the power of the Spirit, and have no confidence in self.

1:2 If any man bring an offering- so voluntary. “of his own voluntary will”, verse 3. Sin offering compulsory.
Our worship should be outflow of a worshipful and willing heart.
“None shall appear before Me empty”.

1:3 If his offering…be of the herd- valuable animal, especially in desert.
Pharoah tried to get Moses to leave animals behind. Moses refused, “that we may sacrifice unto the Lord our God”.
David said, “neither will I offer… to the Lord that which doth cost me nothing”, 2 Samuel 24:24..
We should be prepared to devote time and effort to gather thoughts about Christ.

1:4 And he shall put his hand on the head of the burnt offering- personal identification with offering. Shows only believers can worship, for only they are in communion with the Christ of Calvary.

1:5 And he shall kill the bullock before the Lord- we are cautioned by the fact that worship is offered in the presence of the Lord. We should ensure our conduct befits His presence. “serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear”, Hebrews 12:28.
The bullock dies instead of the man, so our hearts should be full of gratitude as we think of Calvary.

1:6 And he shall flay the burnt offering- the skin reflects the inner health of the animal. The skin is equivalent to clothing, so represents the character of Christ in life. The skin became the priests, so he wore what the animal wore. We should display the character of Christ all the time.
And cut it into his pieces- this was skilled task, for the animal must not be spoiled. We need to develop skill in distinguishing the various features of Christ. The head, His intelligence; the legs, His walk; the inwards, His desires for God’s glory; the fat, His energy. These things are found in the gospel records for our instruction.

1:7. And the sons of Aaron the priest- bullock might weigh half a ton. Morning meeting is not a one-man meeting, but when we move together in harmony. Nadab and Abihu broke ranks.

1:14 Turtledoves, or of young pigeons- difficult to obtain; require effort, time, energy, commitment.