Bible Study

Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon:

Sermon Notes

Big Idea

The Tabernacle shows us that 

God desires to dwell with His people

 — and that desire is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

1. Participation — A Glad Invitation

Before giving building instructions, God invited the people to contribute materials (Exodus 25:2).

• They gave what God had already provided (Exodus 12).
• Giving was voluntary — “from every man whose heart moves him.”
• Covenant generosity flows from joy, not compulsion.

As Paul the Apostle writes in Second Corinthians 9:7, “God loves a cheerful giver.”

Application

• Everything we have is from God.
• Generosity is not the duty of a slave, but the privilege of a lover.
• If joy is missing, examine the heart — not just the habit.

2. Pattern — Nearness and Holiness

The structure of the Tabernacle (courtyard → holy place → Most Holy Place) reveals two truths:

God Is Near

• His presence dwelt among His people.
• The Ark symbolized His throne on earth.
• Covenant means relationship — not distance.

God Is Holy

• Access was limited and required sacrifice.
• His purity creates a tension for sinful people.
• Nearness is a gift — not something to approach casually.

Application

• Come to God joyfully.
• Come to God reverently.
• Grace produces both confidence and humility.

3. Fulfillment — The Person and Work of Jesus

The Tabernacle pointed forward to Christ.In Gospel of John 1:14 we read:“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”Literally — He “tabernacled” among us.Jesus is:

• The true meeting place of heaven and earth.
• The fulfillment of the Temple.
• The presence of God in fullness.

After His resurrection and ascension, His presence comes to us through the Holy Spirit — not as a replacement for Jesus, but as the living connection to Him.

Discussion Questions

1. Is generosity a joyful practice for you? Why or why not?2. How do different worship styles emphasize either God's nearness or holiness? How can worship emphasize both?3. Is the Holy Spirit a substitute for Jesus? Why or why not?4. Read Ephesians 2:19-22. How is Paul using the Temple metaphor? What might that look like today in the Christian Life? Hint: the "you" in v. 22 is plural.

Questions?

Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Randy Forrester (

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