The Tabernacle as a Type: A Historical Perspective on Church Origins

The concept of "type" and "antitype" is a significant element in understanding the relationship between the Old and New Testaments and, consequently, the historical development of the Church. Figures and events in the Old Testament are often seen as foreshadowing realities in the New Testament. One such example is the Tabernacle, which can be understood as a type for the Church itself.

The Tabernacle in the Wilderness

The Tabernacle, constructed by the Israelites in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt, served as a portable sanctuary for God's presence among His people. It was a tangible representation of God's dwelling with them and a center for worship and sacrifice. The materials used in its construction, some acquired from the Egyptians, are especially noteworthy.

For whatsoever we acquired from unrighteousness when we were heathen, we are proved righteous, when we have become believers, by applying it to the Lord's advantage. (Source: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

This suggests a parallel between the Israelites using resources from a non-believing nation to build God's dwelling place and the Church utilizing aspects of the Gentile world for God's purposes.

The Church as the New Tabernacle

The document suggests that the exodus from Egypt was a type and image of the exodus of the Church from among the Gentiles.

For the whole exodus of the people out of Egypt, which took place under divine guidance, was a type and image of the exodus of the Church which should take place from among the Gentiles. (Source: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

Just as the Israelites were led out of slavery in Egypt to serve God, so too the Church is called out from the world to serve Him. The resources acquired from the Egyptians to build the Tabernacle prefigure the way the Church uses elements from the Gentile world. The passage implies that the Church, comprised of believers from diverse backgrounds, becomes the new dwelling place of God.

…by means of these same do we erect in ourselves the tabernacle of God: for God dwells in those who act uprightly… (Source: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

This highlights that God's presence is not confined to a physical structure but resides in the hearts of believers who live righteously.

Implications for Church History

This typological understanding has implications for how we view the Church’s relationship with the world throughout history. It suggests that the Church can and should utilize aspects of culture, philosophy, and even material resources from the surrounding society to further God’s kingdom. However, it also implies a call to redeem those elements, transforming them for God’s glory.

For example, the early Church adopted philosophical concepts from Greek thought to articulate Christian doctrine more effectively. Similarly, the Church has often used art, music, and architecture from various cultures to create spaces and experiences that point to God.

Conclusion

The Tabernacle as a type offers a valuable lens through which to understand the Church's historical origins and its ongoing relationship with the world. It highlights the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and provides a framework for engaging with culture in a way that is both transformative and redemptive. Just as the Israelites used resources from Egypt to build the Tabernacle, the Church can and should use resources from the world to build up the body of Christ, always ensuring that God's presence dwells within those who act uprightly.