Acts 7:44-50 Stephen’s Address: God’s True Tabernacle

Stephen continues his address to the Sanhedrin, the JEwish governing body who accused the disciple of blasphemy. Stephen’s ministry had led him to this moment, when he now exhorts his audience about God’s true tabernacle.

“44 Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as He appointed, instructing Moses to make it according to the pattern that he had seen, 45 which our fathers, having received it in turn, also brought with Joshua into the land possessed by the Gentiles, whom God drove out before the face of our fathers until the days of David, 46 who found favor before God and asked to find a dwelling for the God of Jacob.” (Acts 7:44-46)

The tabernacle of witness was built in Sinai, to be a physical reminder of God’s presence, a place where Jews would glorify and worship their creator.

The Hebrew nation relied on this tabernacle for strength and courage as many would allow themselves to be distracted and forget about their creator’s magnificence.

After they conquered the land, the Jews led by Joshua brought the tabernacle of witness to Canaan, its final resting place, where king David had hoped to build a permanent dwelling place for God.

“47 But Solomon built Him a house.” (Acts 7:47)

Though it was David’s plan to build God a temple, the task would fall on his son Solomon who answered Yahweh’s call and build a dwelling for Him in Jerusalem.

“48 However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands, as the prophet says: 49 ‘Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. What house will you build for Me? says the Lord, Or what is the place of My rest? 50 Has My hand not made all these things?” (Acts 7:48-50)

Stephen then reminds members of the Sanhedrin that God’s true tabernacle is in Heaven and in the hearts of his children, rather than confined to a building made by men. Let’s pray!

ather God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Luke,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.

Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.

God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.

May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.

We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.

Praise God,
Amen!

This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com

Posted in Bible Studies.

Daniel St.Pierre

Daniel St.Pierre is a born again child of God. A Canadian immigrant to the United States, Daniel considers himself "blessed to be a blessing" as the ministry he leads continues to reach thousands of souls each month, on a global scale since 2003.