**Cross Reference**: #tabernacle_structure, #outer_courtyard, #worship, #holiness, #god_presence # The Tabernacle Structure and Outer Courtyard ## Introduction The [[Tabernacle]] structure and its [[Outer Courtyard]] form the sacred space where [[God]] dwells among His people, symbolizing the themes of [[Holiness]], separation, and the progression into deeper worship. Encompassing the Altar of Burnt Offering and the Bronze Basin, the outer courtyard represents the first step in approaching God, emphasizing preparation and reverence. The Tabernacle itself, divided into the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, reflects the gradation of access to God’s presence, ulti... ## Historical Background and Construction The Tabernacle was constructed according to the precise measurements provided by God in [Exodus 26](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus+26&version=AMP) and [Exodus 27](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus+27&version=AMP). The structure was a portable sanctuary made with gold-plated acacia wood, linen, and curtains. The outer courtyard, enclosed by linen curtains and bronze posts, provided a designated area for worship and sacrifice. The Tabernacle was designed to be portab... ### Theological Significance 1. **Holiness and Separation in Worship**: The separation between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place illustrates the holiness of God and the need for reverence in approaching His presence. Each level of access within the Tabernacle symbolizes progressive closeness to God, reserved for those prepared and consecrated. 2. **The Outer Courtyard as a Space of Preparation**: The outer courtyard, where offerings were made and purification was sought, emphasizes that preparation is necessary before entering into worship. This preparatory space reflects that approaching God requires spiritual readiness. #### Call to Action: - **Honor God’s Holiness by Approaching with Reverence**: Believers are encouraged to approach worship with reverence, recognizing the holiness and sanctity of God’s presence. - **Embrace Spiritual Preparation in Worship**: The courtyard’s role in preparation calls believers to ready their hearts, seeking purity and humility as they draw near to God. ## Symbolism of the Tent of Meeting and the Veil The Tent of Meeting, with its layers of curtains and the inner veil, symbolizes the barriers between God and humanity caused by sin. Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place once a year, illustrating the need for mediation in approaching God. The veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place was a powerful symbol of the holiness and inaccessibility of God’s direct presence. 1. **The Veil as a Symbol of Separation**: The inner veil represents the separation between God and humanity due to sin, emphasizing that holiness cannot mix with impurity. The need for the veil highlights the gravity of sin and the sacredness of God’s space. 2. **The Tent as a Portable Dwelling of God**: The Tabernacle’s design as a mobile sanctuary illustrates that God desires to dwell with His people wherever they go, signifying His presence, guidance, and protection. #### Call to Action: - **Acknowledge the Need for Holiness and Reverence**: Believers are encouraged to recognize that God’s holiness requires purity, calling them to live lives that honor His presence. - **Rejoice in God’s Desire to Dwell Among His People**: The portability of the Tabernacle reminds believers of God’s desire to be close, guiding them in all areas of life. ## New Testament Fulfillment: Christ and the Presence of God In the [[00.New Testament]], the Tabernacle’s symbolism finds fulfillment in [[Christ]], who is described as the true tabernacle through whom believers gain access to God’s presence. At His death, the veil in the [[Temple]] was torn in two, symbolizing that direct access to God is now available through Christ’s sacrifice. This event, recorded in [Matthew 27:51](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+27.51&version=AMP), signifies that Christ has removed the barrier of sin, making way for believ... 1. **Christ as the True Tabernacle and Mediator**: Jesus’ life and sacrifice fulfill the Tabernacle’s purpose, enabling believers to approach God directly through His mediation. 2. **Removal of the Barrier to God’s Presence**: The torn veil represents the end of separation, allowing believers to enter into God’s presence freely, signifying that the holiness and atonement provided by Christ grant direct access. #### Call to Action: - **Approach God with Boldness Through Christ**: Believers are invited to approach God confidently, knowing that Christ’s sacrifice has opened the way to His presence. - **Celebrate the Fulfillment of God’s Dwelling Among His People**: The Tabernacle’s fulfillment in Christ calls believers to rejoice in God’s presence, embracing a relationship built on faith and communion. ## Conclusion: Holiness, Access, and Fulfillment in Worship The Tabernacle and its courtyard emphasize the themes of holiness, separation, and progressive access to God’s presence. For Israel, the structure served as a physical representation of the reverence required to approach God, illustrating that holiness and preparation are essential in worship. In Christ, the Tabernacle finds its ultimate fulfillment, offering believers direct access to God. Believers are encouraged to embrace a life of holiness, rejoice in the removal of the barrier to God’s presence, and w... ## Related Concepts: - [[Holiness in Worship]] - [[Access to God Through Christ]] - [[Separation and Consecration]] - [[Fulfillment of the Tabernacle in Christ]]