Jesus Tabernacled With Humanity

EXODUS - Sabbath School - Lesson 13 - Thursday Commentary 

Jesus Tabernacled With Humanity

John 1:14

John declares, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14, NIV). The Greek phrase behind “made his dwelling” literally means “tabernacled.” Just as God’s presence filled the tabernacle in the wilderness, Christ came and lived among His people. The tabernacle was God’s chosen way to dwell in the midst of Israel, pointing forward to the day when He would come in person through His Son. In Jesus, God’s presence was not hidden behind curtains, but made visible in human flesh.

This truth transforms how we view Christ’s presence today. He promised, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20). Just as the tabernacle was the meeting place between God and His people, so now Jesus Himself is that meeting place. Wherever His followers come together in His name, He is there—no walls, no temple required.

But His presence is not only communal; it is also deeply personal. In Revelation 3:20, Jesus says, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” The same God who filled the tabernacle with glory now seeks to fill human hearts with fellowship and life.

The story reaches its climax in Revelation 21:1–3. John sees the New Jerusalem descending, and hears the voice from heaven declaring: “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.” The temporary tabernacle and Christ’s earthly ministry point toward this eternal reality: God will dwell forever with His redeemed people, face to face, in a new creation without sin, sorrow, or separation.

What is presented to us here? The great arc of Scripture shows God’s persistent desire to be with His people—from the tabernacle in the wilderness, to the incarnation of Jesus, to His presence among believers today, and finally to the eternal dwelling of God with humanity in the New Jerusalem. The invitation is clear: open the door to His presence now, and look forward with joy to dwelling with Him forever.

More: The Tabernacle - Lesson 13 - EXODUS

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