And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up, the cloud covered the tabernacle, namely, the tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until the morning. Numbers 9:15
One great lesson that the children of Israel learned very quickly during their journeyings in the wilderness was that the pillar cloud – and its nighttime version the pillar of fire – represented the presence of God. It had protected and guided them during their escape from Egypt and from the pursuing Egyptians, and in the days that followed. It had gone before them to lead and direct the great company in the wilderness. But something unusual happened when the tabernacle was completed. When the work of preparing all of the structure and its coverings, the crafting of all of the furniture and tools, and the dedication ceremonies, were all finished, the pillar cloud moved directly over the tabernacle and remained there. There was no mistaking what that meant: the presence of God was dwelling in that tabernacle. That was a long time ago. Does the presence of God dwell in any structure today?
God gave Moses very specific instructions regarding that tabernacle. It had a definite pattern that the builders must follow. And follow it they did, otherwise, God’s presence would never have entered there. The pattern for the tabernacle was very detailed and very precise, right down to the size and shape of the instruments used in the ceremonies and sacrifices. It took time and a great deal of effort, much of it highly skilled effort, to get everything just right. When they did get it right, the cloud moved into place, and the dwelling of God was assured. The amount of time and effort to ensure God’s dwelling is not nearly as extensive today. But it is just as precise.
As we know by Matthew 18:20, our Lord promises to be in the place where His people are gathered in His Name. Yes, it is as simple as it sounds simple, but it is actually a very exacting pattern. Little assemblies, and some a little larger, can claim His presence as they follow this charter verse, taking no name but His and following no creed or doctrine but His Word. But there are all about us religious organizations that disqualify themselves because they are deviating from the pattern. They gather under a variety of names, none of them the Name that Matthew 18:20 specifies. They follow a variety of doctrines and creeds that are based on the teachings and traditions of their originators rather than on the simple and unencumbered Word of God.
Our Lord dwells today where His people follow His simple pattern of gathering. Does the cloud of His presence dwell where you are gathered today? – Jim MacIntosh