Treasures of the Tabernacle: The Outer Court and the Only Way In

Have you ever stood at the entrance of something special—a garden gate, a church aisle, a new beginning—and felt the weight of what lies ahead?

As we continue our journey through the Tabernacle, we find ourselves standing at such a gate: the one and only entrance into the Tabernacle courtyard. This was where every worshipper in ancient Israel began. And today, it’s where we begin too—at the outer court, a place full of rich symbolism that points directly to Jesus Christ.

The Tabernacle Was God’s Design

Nothing about the Tabernacle was random or decorative. Every element was given by God to Moses with detailed instructions. As Hebrews 8:5 reminds us, it was a “shadow of heavenly things.” These were not just symbols made up by man—God Himself intended them to point forward to His Son.

The Tabernacle was placed in the very center of Israel’s massive wilderness encampment. With possibly 2–3 million Israelites surrounding it, this sacred space stood as a visual and spiritual anchor—a reminder that God dwells at the center of His people.

So, what would you see if you approached the Tabernacle?

1. The Gate: There’s Only One Way In

As you came near the Tabernacle, the first thing you’d notice is the gate—a 30-foot wide entrance on the east side, woven with blue, purple, scarlet, and white threads. That gate was the only way in.

Sound familiar?

“I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved.” – John 10:9“I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” – John 14:6

Just as the Tabernacle had one entrance, there is only one way into God’s presence—through Jesus Christ. Many people today try to enter by religion, good works, or their own path. But God has made it clear: the gate is Jesus.

2. The Linen Fence: God’s Standard of Purity

The Tabernacle courtyard was enclosed by a fence made of fine white linen, about 7½ feet tall. It wrapped around the entire enclosure, creating a clear boundary between what was sacred and what was not.

That white linen stood for righteousness—the holiness of God. It was a visual reminder that you couldn’t just stroll into His presence on your own terms. Sinful man is separated from a holy God.

“Fine linen is the righteousness of saints.” – Revelation 19:8

When we come to God through Christ, we are wrapped in His righteousness, not our own. Paul said it beautifully:

“And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness… but that which is through the faith of Christ.” – Philippians 3:9

God still has boundaries. In a world that hates the idea of spiritual separation, the linen fence reminds us: God is holy, and approaching Him requires purity.

3. The Silver Sockets: Our Foundation Is Redemption

Those linen curtains didn’t hang in midair. They were supported by wooden posts, each resting in a silver socket—a foundation of precious metal.

Silver in the Bible often pictures redemption. Every Israelite paid a silver ransom as part of their covenant with God (Exodus 30:12–16). It was a price for their souls, and it helped fund the sanctuary.

This points us directly to Christ.

“Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold… But with the precious blood of Christ.” – 1 Peter 1:18–19

No part of our spiritual life can stand without the foundation of redemption. Just like the fence posts would sink in the sand without the silver base, our lives crumble without Jesus’ saving work.

What Does It Mean for Us?

You can’t come into God’s presence without going through the Gate—Jesus Christ.

You can’t stand before Him without being surrounded by His righteousness.

And you can’t have stability without the foundation of redemption.

The Outer Court teaches us that access to God is possible—but only on His terms. And His terms are glorious. Because in Christ, we have the gate, the righteousness, and the redemption we could never earn.

Next Week: The Brazen Altar – A Place of Sacrifice

Join us next time as we take another step forward—into the first piece of furniture inside the courtyard: the Brazen Altar, where sacrifice was made and forgiveness began.

Don’t just read about it. Let it stir your heart. Because every part of the Tabernacle shows us more of Jesus—and the more we see Him, the more we’ll love Him.