The Gateway of Humility: Entering God's Presence

Part 1: “Heaven to Earth” Sermon Series

The Tabernacle, as detailed in the book of Exodus, was much more than a simple tent. It was a physical manifestation of God’s presence among the Israelites and a profound symbol of how we should approach God today. Every aspect of the Tabernacle’s design, from the materials used to its layout, was meticulously specified by God. This divine blueprint wasn’t just about constructing a physical space; it was about creating a spiritual blueprint for humanity’s relationship with God - a pattern that remains relevant even in our modern context.

At the heart of the Tabernacle’s significance is the concept of humility. The first thing an Israelite would encounter upon approaching the Tabernacle was the white linen fence, symbolizing purity and separation from the world. The white linen would have been in stark contrast to the surroundings, indicating that this was a sacred and set apart place.  On one end was a “gate”, a curtain made of blue, purple, and scarlet fabric. To enter, one had to lift this curtain and bow down and go under.  They would literally stoop to enter into the outer court of the tabernacle.  Literally humbling oneself before stepping into God’s presence.

This act of bowing - of humbling oneself - wasn’t just a matter of physical posture. It was a profound spiritual declaration: God is holy, and we, as His creations, must approach Him with a recognition of our own unworthiness. This humility is not just a prerequisite for entering the Tabernacle; it’s a prerequisite for entering into a relationship with God.

Throughout scripture, we see the importance of humility underscored time and again. The Apostle Paul, who was one of the most influential figures in the early Church, described himself as the “chief of sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15). Ezekiel, a prophet with an entire book of the Bible named after him, fell to the ground when God called him, needing divine instruction to stand up and listen (Ezekiel 2:1). Similarly, when John the Revelator saw the glorified Christ, he fell at His feet “as though dead” (Revelation 1:17).

These examples remind us that humility is not optional when it comes to our relationship with God. It is the foundation upon which our faith is built. Without humility, we risk approaching God with a sense of entitlement, expecting Him to conform to our desires rather than submitting ourselves to His will.

In today’s world, where messages (even preaching) of self-empowerment and self-importance are prevalent, the call to humility can feel countercultural. Yet, the Tabernacle teaches us that God’s ways are not our ways. To experience His presence, power, and glory in our lives, we must follow the pattern He has laid out. This pattern begins with humility.

When we enter through the gate of humility, we find ourselves at the Brazen Altar, where sacrifices were made. This is symbolic of our own need to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). Humility leads to repentance, and repentance brings us into right standing with God.

The Tabernacle plan is a testament to the fact that God is a God of details. The same God who created the stars with just a few words devoted over 50 chapters of the Bible to describe the construction of the Tabernacle. This attention to detail is not just about the physical structure but about the spiritual principles it embodies. If we want to see God’s power manifest in our lives, God has given us a blueprint.  This “Heaven to Earth” sermon series will cover the main aspects of the Tabernacle plan and how they can be applied to our lives these days.

The gate of the tabernacle serves as a timeless reminder that our relationship with God must be approached with humility. It’s a blueprint not just for ancient Israel but for all believers today. When we humble ourselves before God, acknowledging our need for His grace, we open the door for His presence to fill our lives. It is through humility that we can truly bring heaven to earth, living daily in the presence of our Creator.