Would you like to see what we have written on a subject? Use the search below.

[If you purchase anything on this site, I may make a commission. Disclosure Policy]

The Tabernacle Of David
And The Heart Of God

Quick Look: This article looks into Amos 9:11, illustrating the divine intent behind rebuilding the Tabernacle of David. Unlike the intricate and awe-inspiring structures of Moses and Solomon, focused on ritual and God's holiness, David's tent emphasized open communion and joyous worship. This was a time when God’s presence was accessible without the barrier of veils, inviting a celebration through music and dance. It foreshadows the New Covenant, allowing a restored relationship through Jesus's sacrifice. For more detailed information, read the article below.

“On that day I will raise up the tabernacle of David, which has fallen down,
And repair its damages; I will raise up its ruins,
And rebuild it as in the days of old; Amos 9:11, NKJV.

This verse draws back the curtain and reveals the heart of God. When Moses built the Tabernacle, it was an amazing and beautiful work of art which copied the heavenly Tabernacle. Solomon built a stunning Temple overlaid with gold that was a world wonder. And yet God did not say He would raise up the Tabernacle of Moses or the Temple of Solomon. He said He wanted the Tabernacle [or dwelling/shelter] of David. Why? What was the difference?

The structures of Moses and Solomon were focused on God’s holiness and the sacrifices that covered sin until the Messiah would come to take away sin. They inspired awe and gratitude but emphasized God’s “otherness” or being separate and above His creation. They allowed people to glimpse God’s greatness and the great price that would have to be paid for our salvation. However, the Ark of the Covenant, which represented God’s presence, was walled off from the people by a thick curtain. Only the High Priest once a year on the Day of Atonement could enter the presence of the Lord, and he did so at the fear of his life. One mistake, and he died. All this was necessary because God is holy, and we are not. But it was not the heart of God.

The Tabernacle Of David

David’s tabernacle was different. It was a tent in which the Ark of the Covenant was placed. For a brief moment in Old Testament history, God was not hidden behind a veil. While sacrifices were at the Tabernacle of David, that was not its focus. The emphasis at the time of David was on worship. There was singing, dancing, musical instruments, and celebration. It was a day of rejoicing in the presence of God! The heart of God danced with His people. It was a picture of the joy and unity of God with His people that existed in the Garden of Eden and will exist in heaven. It was also a foretaste of what we can have in our New Covenant era initiated by Jesus’s death and resurrection.

God desires to live among His people in joyous communion. The true beauty and wonder of the Garden of Eden was an unhindered relationship with God. Adam and Eve walked with God, enjoying each other’s company. Through the blood of Jesus, that relationship is possible again. We will not walk in its fullness until after the Second Coming, but we should be growing in it.

Take a moment and evaluate your relationship with Jesus, especially in the aspect of worship. As the Bride of Christ, worship is how we make love to Him. It is to express our love and joy in His presence. But, perhaps, life has worn us down. Like the husband returning from a hard day at work or a wife after a day of struggling with the children, we may feel like we are too tired to meet the needs of our spouse. Are we just too tired or discouraged to spend time in worship?

Has our worship tabernacle fallen down? Jesus understands how we feel. He is compassionate with our situation. But His heart yearns for the deep communion of lovers lost in each other. He wants to rebuild the Tabernacle and restore our joy, if only we will let Him. Just as the husband and wife relationship is the priority human relationship, our relationship with Jesus is THE priority relationship above all else. If it has gotten off track, there is no condemnation, but let’s do everything possible to rebuild and restore it. We all need the Tabernacle of David in our lives.

Tabernacle Of David
Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How Does The Concept Of Worship In David’s Tabernacle Foreshadow The New Covenant?

Answer: In the New Covenant, the barrier of sin has been removed. When we accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour, we stand before God in the righteousness of Christ. We can now freely enter the presence of God.

Question: In What Ways Can Believers Experience Unhindered Communion With God Today?

Answer: Praise and thanksgiving are walking through the gate [Psalm 100:4] into the presence of God. Worship. prayer and Bible study are all ways to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus.

Question: How Can Christians Revive Their Worship Life When Facing Spiritual Weariness?

Answer: Entering the presence of God through thanksgiving, praise and worship is a choice. We are to make it with our will, not our emotions. We must choose to be thankful and enter the presence of Jesus even when we don't feel like it. It is a difficult choice when we are tired or burnt out, but it is still a choice. Emotions will follow faith actions.

Question: How Long Did The Tabernacle Of David Last?

Answer: It lasted 40 years until the Ark of the Covenant was moved into Solomon's Temple.

Please note: We no longer have the commenting feature [maybe again in the future]. Joshua Institute students who have questions or comments on their courses can use the contact button and mention the course name and lesson number in the email. Thank you. Glenn