The Hidden Lesson: Hebrews 9:1-5
“1) Now even the first covenant had regulations of divine worship and the earthly sanctuary. 2) For there was a tabernacle prepared, the outer one, in which were the lampstand and the table and the sacred bread; this is called the holy place. 3) Behind the second veil there was a tabernacle which is called the Holy of Holies, 4) having a golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded, and the tables of the covenant; 5) and above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat; but of these things we cannot now speak in detail. Hebrews 9:1-5
We now have a description of the tabernacle made by Moses and the children of Israel in the wilderness. Building it was an amazing task. The process forced them to focus on God. This description gives a small picture of the building itself and its furnishings.
Exodus 25-31 and 35-40 provides the actual details of the design and the building process. But notice there was a gap in the process. While Moses was on the mountain getting the Ten Commandments and plans for the tabernacle, the people back in the camp were building the golden calf. Exodus 32-34 tells the tragic story.
We learn from this that when you are not focused on worshipping and serving God, the flesh takes over and drives people contrary to the will and ways of God. While Moses was on the mountain receiving the Ten Commandments, the people back in the camp were breaking them. While Moses was in the presence and glory of God, the people were indulging in the flesh.
God always prescribes ways to worship and draw near to Him. Satan always sends distractions and fleshly counterfeits. Note, that both were forms of worship. The tabernacle pointed to God and holiness, while the golden calf pointed to sin and seduction.
Both God and Satan have plans for your life. One is glorious while, the other is shameful. One points to God, the other indulges in self. One leads to life, the other leads to death. One is based on truth, the other is based on deception.
Which building plan for life are you going to embrace? Are you focused on the tabernacle or the golden calf? Are you walking in the Spirit or are you in bondage to the flesh? Are you worshipping God or Satan and self? Learn well the important lesson hidden in the story of the building of the tabernacle.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
