Some have suggested that the symbolism contained in the Old Testament law, especially the regulations for worship, is more in the mind of the interpreter than from God. Certainly, it is possible to invent some fanciful explanations for Old Testament narratives; but today's verses remind us that God provided a model for us to understand what He would achieve through Christ. Also, that the tabernacle was intentionally incomplete and inadequate. The Holy Spirit continues to speak through the physical format and function of the tabernacle (Hebrews 3:7).

The tabernacle consisted of a courtyard, within which was a tent where the priests could worship God on behalf of the people (Exodus 36:8-38). The 'tent' was a frame structure of wood overlaid with gold, and covered by four layers of cloth (click to read the W@W message explaining the tabernacle). It had two rooms, the outer (the Holy Place) which was accessed every day by the priests, but not the people; and the inner room (The Holy of Holies) which was only entered once a year, and then only by the high priest - with a sacrifice for his own sins and also for the people (Numbers 6:11). The God-designed architecture was a potent reminder that God was so holy that He could not be approached by sinful people. God was inaccessible, and even the animal sacrifices had to be presented by priests. Ordinary people had no way to encounter God, except in judgement. Even the sacrifices could not clean their guilty consciences (Hebrews 9:9).

The Holy Spirit speaks today, using the tabernacle as a model. Until Jesus died, the curtain of the temple kept everybody out of God's presence. But when Jesus died, the curtain was torn in two from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51). God Himself opened the way for people to know Him personally. All who are trusting in Christ's redeeming sacrifice have immediate and personal access into God's presence. The old order of religion – with mediating priests and mystical practices was finished. Jesus has opened a new and living way for us, and our friends, to come to God (Hebrews 10:20).

Yet how easy it is for us to regress into a form of Old Testament worship. So many like to have priests or pastors who will connect with God for them and pray for them. But that order has gone (Hebrews 8:13). In Christ, we have gifted people who serve as evangelists, pastors, teachers and others, not to do God's work for us - but to equip us to serve Him in the ministries to which God has called us (Ephesians 4:11-13). All of God's people have an equal right of access into His presence through Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:18). We need no other mediator (Hebrews 4:16). So, come to Him today. Confess and be forgiven; learn and grow as a disciple; go and serve as His representative in a groaning world. Your workplace, and community, is also your mission field.