God’s Temple

As I study the book of Exodus and read God’s instructions to Moses on the method in which He was to build the tabernacle and each item within it, I am struck by similarities between that temple, Jesus, and us as believers. 

God’s instructions to Moses on the mountain include numerous intricate details on how the tabernacle and everything in it was to be designed. Why must it be so elaborate? Because that was where God would come and dwell among them. He said to Moses, “Then have them make a sanctuary for me and I will dwell among them. Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly as I will show you.” 

Moreover, it was also a picture of His perfect Son who would dwell among us. John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” Jesus took what was once confined to a tabernacle and brought it into our presence. 

Not only does this temple mirror Jesus, it also is a picture of His children. 

God also instructed: “Then put in this ark the testimony I will give you… Command the Israelites to bring you clear oil of pressed olives for the light so the lamps may be kept burning.”

The lamps were to remain lit as a constant reminder of God’s presence always being with them. God has also promised believers today that He will never leave us or forsake us. And just as He put a testimony within the ark, we all have a testimony within us as well. 

Ephesians tells us that Christ Jesus Himself is the cornerstone, and “In Him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit.”

God gave clear instructions for how His temple should be formed because that is what His presence deserved and what His Son embodied. What must that say about believers if God sees us as His holy temple? What a gift to be seen as a worthy dwelling for our perfect Savior! 

Lord, thank you for washing me clean and making me worthy of your presence. May your constant light within me shine brightly for others to see. And if they ask of its radiance, may I always be willing to share the testimony you have given me.  

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