Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 3
The tabernacle/temple imagery (garden-like decorations, angels, gold, jewels) is presented as designed to make Israel feel like they’re “going back to the garden”; what does that say about God’s desire to dwell with people, and how might early Christians have carried that worldview into their worship and community life?
Another way to ask: If the tabernacle and temple were made to feel like a return to Eden, what does that show about God wanting to live with people, and how might that have shaped early Christian worship and community?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
The garden-like temple imagery suggests God wants to dwell with His people in a restored “Eden-like” space where His presence is central. Early Christians would have carried this forward by seeing the church—and individual believers—as the new “temple” where God’s Spirit lives and heaven and earth meet.
- The speaker notes two temple forms: Moses’ tabernacle and Solomon’s building, both richly decorated.
- He emphasizes the decorations: “fruit trees and flowers and images of angels and all kinds of gold and jewels.”
- He explains the purpose: these were meant to make you feel like “you’re going back to the garden.”
- At the center was the “Holy of Holies,” described as “the hotspot of God’s presence,” with Exodus 26:33–34 about the veil, ark, and mercy seat.
- He then describes the New Testament shift: “we are called to be the temple of God,” and “God’s Spirit dwells in your midst.”