The Ark and The Tabernacle

Synopsis     1Chron 16:32-17:1     1/7/2020 

In accordance with David’s plan, the ark was led in a long procession to Jerusalem. For the occasion, King David dictated a song. And so, the Levites sang this song as they delivered the ark to Jerusalem. 

Afterward, David commanded Asaph and his brothers to remain with the ark in Jerusalem. At the same time, he directed that the high priest should continue to minister before the altar and tabernacle that was located in Gibeon.  

In those days, Zadok was the high priest. So, Zadok and the other priests returned to Gibeon and took up their ministry there.  

Meanwhile, David sent the people away. After this, he returned to his own home in the city of David.  

The Ark and The Tabernacle 

God’s has not tied His presence to a specific physical location. For this reason, David didn’t reunite the ark with the tabernacle that served as it’s home since the time of Moses.  

As a result, the presence of God manifest in the ark of the Covenant was literally with David. Yet, at the same time, the place where the Israelites had traditionally offered sacrifice remained at Gibeon.  

God and His Church 

Much like Martha and Mary in Jesus’ time, for me there remains the possibility of satisfying the deep longing for God by sitting at His feet. Or, alternatively, I can go to the temple and worship God there through the formal mediation of the priesthood.

These two exist in a necessary and positive tension.  

In truth, I am called to both. Yet, if I had to choose, then Jesus says sitting at His feet is the better part. Communion with the God of Creation is the better part.

“and, like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ”  1Peter 2:5