Aug 1958 - Editorial

We commence this month a series of articles on the important subject of the Tabernacle, a series which will take many months to complete. It is generally agreed that there is a mine of wealth of spiritual teaching in the materials, construction, and use of the Tabernacle, and no articles, however lengthy, can exhaust the subject or even deal with all the facets of truth that may be found in it. Further, each item can be the starting point of thoughts and remarks leading far away from the strict exposition of the subject. Therein is part of the fascination of the subject of the Tabernacle, and the Epistle to the Hebrews shows the use that was made of the teachings of the Tabernacle with regard to matters which had not only to deal with a people and its functions in a by-gone day, but had also vital lessons for the people of the apostle's day and therefore for ours also. Those who seem to think that the teachings of the Old Testament are of little importance when we have the New Testament should ponder well this fact, that much of the teaching of the New Testament is related to the teaching given to the people of the past dispensation.

The subject is complex and readers must distinguish for themselves where strict exposition ends and meditation begins. All who seek to write on such a subject as this would not explore the same avenues of thought. Like the rod of Aaron which was laid up before the LORD and brought forth buds and blossoms and ripe almonds, so we are thankful for the ripe fruit and yet recognize that we may look for more fruit as the buds and blossoms mature. We must look for further light and understanding and so this present series of articles should be the stimulant for further thought and exposition.

It is necessary, however, to remember that the Tabernacle and its teaching have primarily to do with a redeemed and gathered people, and not with individuals who live as masterless men, laws unto themselves. The exposition applicable to this day in which we live is for a redeemed and gathered people, but at times the meditations of that people may be concerned with what they once were as sinners, then as believers, then as disciples. This can be considered in the light of Ephesians 2, where the apostle, after taking the thoughts of the Ephesian disciples to heavenly blessings, turns their thoughts to a backward look and says, "Wherefore, remember." Those who are the people of God in His House have understanding and blessing common to all believers, but they have something more.

Our beloved brother who will write on this subject will let his thoughts range over all these things yet ever keep before our minds the fact that Tabernacle teaching is essentially House of God teaching, vital to a people gathered and united according to the Word of God.

unknown | Aug 1958
Editorial