From Wilderness to Worship | Here, As in Heaven

The book of Exodus concludes with the establishment of the Tabernacle.
The story of the Israelites’ journey continues in Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
The story of deliverance from slavery is the Bible’s overarching narrative and our story.

Eden was where God dwelt with His creation in fellowship and intimacy.
Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.
- Their sin represented rebellion and taking authority to determine right and wrong.
- Disobedience led to their expulsion and wandering east of Eden.
The serpent (Satan) deceived them by twisting God’s truth, sowing doubt, and encouraging rebellion.

Satan’s role is to deceive, questioning God’s word and intent.
His tactics in Eden:
- “Did God really say that?”
- “God doesn’t want you to be like Him.”
Satan’s lies echo throughout human history, including our lives today.

The Israelites were deceived repeatedly during their journey:
- Complaints in Egypt despite being enslaved.
- Fear and doubt at the Red Sea.
- Grumbling about provision, even after receiving manna.
- Worshiping the golden calf at Mt. Sinai.
In Numbers 13-14, spies explored the Promised Land:
- Caleb and Joshua gave a positive report, trusting God’s promise.
- The rest doubted, leading to fear and rebellion in the camp.
Moses interceded for the Israelites despite their disobedience, appealing to God’s plan and promise.

God commanded the construction of the Tabernacle, symbolizing His dwelling place among His people.
The Tabernacle’s design mirrored Eden:
- East-facing entrance and cherubim guarding it.
- A menorah representing the Tree of Life.
- Gold symbolizing God’s holiness and glory.
The Tabernacle previewed God’s ultimate plan for restored communion.

Jesus fulfilled the role of the Tabernacle and Temple:
- John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.”
- John 2:19-21 – Jesus referred to His body as the Temple.
His death tore the veil in the Temple, removing the separation between God and humanity.
Through Jesus, God’s presence is not confined but available to all who invite Him in.

Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus, who crushed the serpent’s head and tore the veil.
Jesus:
- Paid humanity’s sin debt.
- Re-established communion with God.
- Made us whole, freeing us from sin and giving us new life.
The Exodus is not just history—it’s our story of salvation and hope.
Our wilderness today includes struggles, waiting, trials, and suffering.
Yet, we journey with God dwelling within us, moving toward the ultimate Promised Land:
- Eternal life in His presence.
- A hope anchored in God’s unwavering promise.

Sermon Questions

Where in your life are you most tempted to doubt God’s promises or question His instructions? Just as Adam and Eve questioned God in the garden and the Israelites doubted Him in the wilderness, reflect on the specific areas where you find yourself thinking, “Did God really say that?” or “Does God really mean this for my good?” How can you guard your heart against these subtle deceptions?
How do you tend to respond when you face “wilderness moments” of waiting, trial, or uncertainty? Consider the Israelites’ complaints and resistance to trust God’s guidance. Where do you see similar attitudes in your own life? How might remembering God’s faithfulness (through Scripture or past experiences) transform your perspective and renew your trust in Him?
In what ways does Jesus, as the new Tabernacle or temple, reshape how you experience God’s presence daily? The sermon reminds us that Jesus came to dwell among us, ultimately tearing down every barrier between God and His people. What does it look like for you to invite His presence into your everyday life? How can this reality deepen your worship, prayer, and sense of hope?