The tabernacle points to Christ by foreshadowing His person and work as the ultimate dwelling place of God among His people and the one through whom we have access to God. Every element of the tabernacle was a shadow of the greater reality fulfilled in Jesus.
John 1:14 makes this connection clear:
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory.”
The word “dwelt” literally means “tabernacled.” Just as God’s presence filled the tabernacle in the wilderness, so in Christ, God took on human flesh to dwell with us. He is Emmanuel…God with us.
The tabernacle’s features symbolize aspects of Christ’s ministry:
The Ark of the Covenant points to Christ as the meeting place between God and man.
The mercy seat foreshadows His atoning sacrifice (Romans 3:25).
The lampstand represents Jesus as the Light of the World (John 8:12).
The table of showbread anticipates Him as the Bread of Life (John 6:35).
The altar of incense reflects His continual intercession for believers (Hebrews 7:25).
The sacrificial system centered in the tabernacle also points to Christ as the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Unlike the repeated offerings in the tabernacle, His sacrifice was once for all (Hebrews 10:10).
The tearing of the temple veil at Christ’s death (Matthew 27:51) signifies that He opened the way to God’s presence permanently. Hebrews 9:11 explains:
“But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands.”
The tabernacle teaches that fellowship with God requires a mediator, a sacrifice, and holiness. All fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is the true dwelling of God with His people.
