Introduction
In this devotional, we explore Exodus 25-26 and Matthew 21:1-22, passages that reveal aspects of God's dwelling among His people and the authority of Jesus as the Messiah. These scriptures, from different times, offer insights into the sacredness of God's presence and the nature of true worship, aligning with the principles of Reformed and covenant theology.
Exodus 25-26 Summary
Exodus 25-26 describes the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable dwelling place for God among His people. This includes the Ark of the Covenant, the Mercy Seat, and various furnishings and structures within the Tabernacle. These chapters highlight the care, precision, and sacredness involved in creating a space worthy of God's presence, reflecting His holiness and the covenant relationship with Israel.
Matthew 21:1-22 Summary
In Matthew 21:1-22, Jesus makes His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah regarding the coming of a humble King on a donkey. This event marks the beginning of Jesus' final week before His crucifixion. Jesus then cleanses the Temple, driving out those who have turned it into a marketplace, underscoring the importance of maintaining the sacredness of God's house. The passage also includes Jesus cursing a fig tree, symbolizing judgment on unfruitfulness and hypocrisy.
Key Theological Concepts
God’s Dwelling Among His People: The Tabernacle in Exodus represents God’s desire to dwell among His people, paralleled by Jesus' entry into Jerusalem and His cleansing of the Temple as affirmations of His authority and presence in God’s sacred space.
Holiness, Worship, and Obedience: The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle emphasize the holiness of God and the importance of obedient worship, themes echoed in Jesus’ actions in the Temple, reminding us of the reverence due to God.
Judgment and Fruitfulness in the Kingdom: The cursing of the fig tree in Matthew serves as a metaphor for judgment on spiritual barrenness, encouraging believers to live fruitful lives in keeping with kingdom values.
Reflection
Exodus 25-26 and Matthew 21:1-22, while set in different contexts, converge in their portrayal of God's presence and the sanctity of worship. The construction of the Tabernacle in Exodus reflects the care and reverence required in approaching a holy God. In Matthew, Jesus asserts His messianic authority, calling for purity and fruitfulness in worship and spiritual life. These passages challenge us to consider our own approach to worship and our response to Jesus' authority in our lives.
Application Points
Reverence in Worship: Reflect on your approach to worship, ensuring it is marked by reverence, awe, and obedience to God, as exemplified in the building of the Tabernacle.
Acknowledge Jesus’ Authority: Recognize and submit to Jesus' authority in all areas of your life, following His teachings and example.
Pursue Spiritual Fruitfulness: Be challenged by the metaphor of the fig tree to live a life that bears fruit in keeping with the values of God’s kingdom.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we study the instructions for the Tabernacle in Exodus and Jesus' actions in Jerusalem in Matthew, we are reminded of the sacredness of Your presence and the importance of true worship. Help us to approach You with reverence and to live under the authority of Jesus, our King and Savior. May our lives be fruitful and our worship be pleasing in Your sight. Guide us to honor You in all that we do, living as faithful stewards of Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.