“In approaching [the] study of the Tabernacle . . . it is well to remember the words of the following proverb: ‘It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honor of kings is to search out a matter’ (Proverbs 25:2). With respect to the Tabernacle. . . as revealed by God to Israel it is no different. In the very structure, furniture, and material of this Tabernacle it has pleased God in His glory to conceal and veil eternal truths. It then becomes the honor of believers, who are Kings and Priests unto God and His Christ (Revelation 1:6; 5:9-10 and I Peter 2:5,9), to search out these glorious truths.”

(Kevin J. Conner, The Tabernacle of Moses: The Riches of Redemption’s Story as Revealed in the Tabernacle, Portland, Oregon: City Bible Publishing, 1976, 1)

The Tabernacle: Five Names in Scripture

The Tabernacle is of such great importance to God’s redemptive program that 50 chapters in the Bible are given to explaining its pattern, construction, and service. Nothing was left to Moses’ speculation; God revealed to him in minute detail every aspect of the Tabernacle. More than 20 times in Exodus we read, “as the Lord commanded Moses.” Five names in Scripture describe the Tabernacle. It was called “a sanctuary” (Ex. 25:8), denoting that it was set apart for a holy God. “Tabernacle” (Ex. 25:9) reveals that it was the dwelling place of God among His people. “Tent” (Ex. 29:42) designated it as a temporary dwelling place of God. It was called “the tabernacle of the congregation” (Ex. 29:42) because it was where God met with His people. The final expression, “the tabernacle of testimony” (Ex. 38:21), described the law given to Moses, which was kept in the ark of the covenant located in the holy of holies. What an appropriate appellation for the Tabernacle, which stood as a testimony to Israel and the world of God’s truth and glory.

(David M. Levy, The Tabernacle: Shadows of the Messiah (Its Sacrifices, Services, and Priesthood), Bellmawr, NJ: The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry, Inc., 2005, 16)