READ: Hebrews 9:19-24
“It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, … but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:” – Hebrews 9:23-24
God’s mysterious residence is called the Tabernacle. In the Old Testament, God instructed His people to create an environment where His presence would dwell. God’s presence cannot flourish everywhere. He will simply not stay everywhere.
The word “Tabernacle” is translated from the word “Mishkan” and it means “residence”. God’s mysterious residence was constructed by the Israelites. Mishkan (God’s residence) is a place where God settles, abides and resides. God’s residence is where He settles and dwells comfortably. The Tabernacle was the place where God’s mysterious presence dwelt. Everywhere you see the word “Tabernacle”, simply replace it with the words “God’s residence”.
According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the Tabernacle (Residence), and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it. Exodus 25:9
The word “Sanctuary” is translated from the word “Miqdash” and it means “Holy Place” or “Sanctuary”. God’s instruction was, “Build me a holy and hallowed place where I can reside.” And let them make me a sanctuary (Holy Place); that I may dwell among them. Exodus 25:8
If indeed we want God to dwell in our midst, it is important for us to study the instructions He gave for the building of a place that can hold His presence. We can glean some valuable information about what God likes and what He does not like. We must learn about what God is comfortable with and what He simply does not want. The Tabernacle (God’s Residence) is the structure, which God instructed to be built to contain His presence.