The first covenant detailed divine worship in the earthly sanctuary.  The tabernacle was a tent, used during the days of wandering in the wilderness by Moses and the people of Israel.

The tabernacle was used for sacred purposes, set up in the middle of the camp.  The Lord God loved those men and women, boys and girls.  His presence was symbolized by the Ark of the Covenant and the mercy seat that covers the top of that ark.

The tabernacle was divided into two rooms, the first being the biggest.  It was called “the holy place” and it contained three pieces of furniture and each one was a “picture” of Christ Jesus, Messiah, God’s Anointed One.

The altar of showbread represented Jesus.  He said, “I am the bread of life.”
The lampstand represented Jesus.  He said, “I am the Light of the world.”
The altar of incense represented the prayers of believers.

A beautifully woven veil or curtain separated these two rooms in which the priests ministered.

The second room was smaller and it was called “Holy of Holies.”  It had one item of furniture…the Ark of the Covenant containing a jar of manna (God’s provision of bread for the Israelites in the wilderness).  The Ark also contained Aaron’s budded rod, bearing fruit (God at work in the lives of believers).  Also in the Ark were the Ten Commandments (God’s Law).

The mercy seat covering the top of the Ark is a symbol for all who enter God’s presence through faith in His Son.  It is only God’s mercy that allows anyone to enter into His presence.  His mercy is given to all who receive Jesus as their Savior and Lord.  Have you received His mercy?

The tabernacle is all about God’s Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.  God alone is to be worshiped.  No words of derision or snide, demeaning remarks should ever be said against the “pictures” God gives us of Himself.  The tabernacle and all of its furnishings are “pictures” to help us understand Jesus.

The description of the tabernacle is a “picture” of our Lord Jesus.  In awe we are to kneel before Him and worship.