Exodus 38 — Thoughts

Was Jesus Outside the Tabernacle?

The symbolism of the Tabernacle also spilled outside into the courtyard.

Just outside the Tent, there was a wash basin. This was where the priests would ritually purify themselves before entering God’s presence, symbolically washing away their sin so they could stand before God.

In 1 John 1:9, we’re told that Jesus purifies us from sin.

In the middle of the courtyard, there was an altar. This is where the priests would make animal sacrifices, symbolically atoning for the sins of the people.

In Hebrews 10:10, we’re told that Jesus was our “once and for all” sacrifice to make us holy.

Finally, there was an ornate curtain surrounding the courtyard with a single entrance facing east, the only way to approach God’s presence.

Jesus tells us in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

The people of God didn’t even have to go into the Tabernacle itself to see symbols of salvation pointing to Jesus.