May 20

PART II. — Hebrews 8:2.

WE have directed you to three general points of resemblance between the tabernacle and Jesus. But Christ is denominated the true tabernacle. That of old was the mere shadow, or figure, or type. Christ is substantially what the tabernacle was only symbolically. The ancient tabernacle was only temporary, formed of perishing materials, and is passed away; Christ, the true tabernacle, is immortal, unchangeable, and will abide for ever. The glory displayed in the old tabernacle was limited and imperfect.—In Christ, all the glory of God was exhibited; in him we behold deity full orbed, in all his uncreated and infinite noon-day splendour. The first tabernacle was for one nation and people.—The second for all nations and kindreds, and people, and tongues. “For this we know and testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.” “And he is the propitiation not only for our sins, but also for the sins of the whole world.” In the first tabernacle were offered animal sacrifices, and all things were consecrated by their blood.—The second has been sanctified by the infinitely precious blood of Christ himself, as of a Lamb without blemish and without spot. The services of the first tabernacle were ceremonious, expensive, and burdensome.—The services of the second, spiritual, gratuitous, and light. Let us then draw near to the true propitiatory, the real mercy-seat, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in every time of need. In Jesus we have pardon, acceptance, sanctification, communion with the Father, and eternal life.