Building Our Own Tabernacle: Structure, Foundation, and the Spirit

Sometimes, when we’re studying the ordinances of the temple or looking back at the sacred pattern of the Tabernacle, it feels overwhelming. So many pieces—the veil, the altar, the outer courts—all needing to fit together perfectly. It reminds me, as a returned missionary, that nothing sacred is built in a day, and nothing lasting is built without a blueprint.

I was recently looking at some deep dives into the structure of the Tabernacle, specifically focusing on the boards and their foundation, and it struck me how much parallels there are between ancient divine architecture and the building of a disciple’s life today. It’s not just about the materials; it’s about the *interconnection*.

The Foundation of the Work

The discussions highlighted that the boards themselves were made of acacia wood—a material described as both obtainable in the wilderness and incredibly durable. But look closer at what was supporting those boards: the foundation was twofold. There was the foundation of silver, and then the precious covering of gold.

When I hear that, I can't help but think prophetically. The structure of the work—the gospel, the covenants—rests on multiple layers. The silver foundation speaks so clearly of redemption. We are redeemed, purchased by the Atonement, and that is the bedrock upon which everything else stands. Then comes the gold—the glory, the covenant keeping, the promise of the Spirit.

It’s a pattern we need to remember as we all strive to be better disciples, whether we are in the MTC, serving in a mission, or right here at home. We need that strong, durable core (the Spirit-filled teachings, the scriptures, the covenants) resting upon the solid ground of our redemption.

The Power of the Bars

What was perhaps most fascinating was the system of joining everything together—the bars of acacia wood, overlaid with gold. These bars passed through the midst of the boards, connecting the whole structure from end to end. They were the connective tissue.

This is a powerful metaphor for us, the rogue disciples. We are all individual boards—each with our own unique experiences, our own "acacia wood" of personal strength. But we are not meant to stand in isolation. We are meant to be connected by the bars of the gospel—the shared commitment to Christ, the regular study, the accountability to our companions.

If we neglect the connections, the structure weakens. If we stop passing the knowledge, the testimony, or the encouragement to the next person, the whole edifice falters. We must actively participate in keeping those bars strong—through service, through teaching, and through mutual encouragement.

A Small Challenge for Our Community

As we contemplate this divine architecture, I want to invite you to focus on one connection point this week. Think of one person—a friend, a new member, or even a fellow disciple who seems to be struggling—and intentionally build a "bar" of connection with them. Don't just send a text; schedule a meaningful conversation. Ask them what *they* feel is the strongest foundation in their life right now.

If you want to dig deeper into this pattern of divine design, I highly recommend checking out the recent discussions on the covenants in LivingBook. If you're feeling the call to study together, consider joining a Book Club or a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. Let's keep building this sacred structure together!

Remember, every member can be an Internet missionary, every member can be a disciple anywhere, all the time.