Conversando las Escrituras con Hermes Tavera y Héctor Melgar Tema: MORADAS

Conversando las Escrituras: Moradas en Juan 14

Introducción al Tema

• El programa es presentado por Héctor Melgar y el pastor Hermes Tverabueno, quienes dan la bienvenida a los oyentes.

• Se introduce el tema del día, que se centra en un texto conocido por muchos, incluso aquellos que no son cristianos.

Texto Base: Juan 14:1-3

• Se menciona que el pasaje de Juan 14:1-3 es uno de "los versículos de la promesa", recitado frecuentemente por personas.

• Héctor invita a orar para abrir tanto la mente como el corazón antes de leer el texto bíblico.

• Se lee el pasaje donde Jesús habla sobre preparar un lugar en la casa del Padre.

Análisis del Pasaje

• El tema principal discutido es "moradas", refiriéndose a las muchas moradas mencionadas en el texto.

• El pastor destaca que este pasaje es una fuente de esperanza y lo clasifica como una promesa divina.

Enfoque Tradicional

• Se propone dividir la discusión en dos partes debido a la profundidad del tema.

• El enfoque tradicional sugiere que Jesús se refiere a preparar un lugar físico en el cielo para sus seguidores.

Interpretación de "Moradas"

• La interpretación tradicional incluye la idea de "mansiones" según traducciones antiguas, pero esto puede ser confuso.

• La palabra griega original implica más bien un espacio o estadía temporal, no necesariamente mansiones lujosas.

Concepto Erróneo sobre Mansiones

• La noción popularizada de moverse entre mansiones en el cielo no está respaldada bíblicamente; se basa en una mala interpretación del término latino "mansiones".

• Es importante entender que Jesús está preparando un espacio personal para cada creyente, enfatizando la relación individual con Él.

Understanding the Tabernacle: A Divine Sanctuary

The Concept of the Tabernacle

• The speaker introduces the topic of the tabernacle, referencing Exodus 25:8, which states that God instructed Moses to build a sanctuary for Him to dwell among His people.

• The term "tabernacle" is explained as meaning "tent," emphasizing its temporary nature similar to how Bedouins set up their tents in the desert.

• A distinction is made between a holy tabernacle and a church, highlighting that a tabernacle represents something transient that can be dismantled and relocated.

Historical Context and Significance

• The Feast of Tabernacles is mentioned, illustrating how Israelites constructed temporary shelters during their pilgrimage to Jerusalem, commemorating their time wandering in the desert.

• The speaker encourages listeners to pay attention to details about the dimensions of the tabernacle, asserting that every aspect holds significance according to God's word.

Structural Details of the Tabernacle

• Discussion shifts towards constructing an understanding of the tabernacle's structure using materials like acacia wood covered with various skins.

• Reference is made to Exodus 26:15-16, detailing specifications for building with upright acacia wood boards measuring ten cubits in height.

Measurements and Interpretations

• Clarification on what constitutes a cubit is provided; it generally refers to 18 inches or one and a half feet based on human anatomy but varies across cultures (e.g., Egyptian or Mesopotamian).

• Each board's width is specified as one and a half cubits. This leads into calculations regarding total lengths when multiple boards are assembled vertically.

Construction Challenges and Insights

• Assembling twenty boards on each side (south and north), totaling thirty cubits in length for walls, raises questions about accurate historical representations of these structures.

• The speaker notes discrepancies in traditional images of the sanctuary due to misunderstandings about measurements; they suggest that boards were interleaved for structural integrity rather than simply placed side by side.

Tabernacle Dimensions and Structure

Overview of Tabernacle Construction

• The discussion begins with the dimensions of the tabernacle, specifically noting that it has a door facing east, making the back (west) consist of six tables.

• Each table is described as being one and a half cubits in height, emphasizing that only the full cubit counts for measurement purposes.

• Clarification on the total number of tables: eight are needed, including two corner tables and six inside. This leads to a total dimension calculation.

Detailed Measurements

• The overall dimensions of the sanctuary are established: 10 cubits high, 20 cubits long, and 8 cubits wide.

• The speaker emphasizes these measurements as actual linear dimensions that can be physically observed and measured.

Speculation on Measurements

• There is speculation about whether half-cubits should be included in calculations; however, it’s noted that later descriptions will clarify how curtains fit into this structure.

• Focus shifts to verse 2 of chapter 26 which states that each curtain measures 28 cubits in length and four cubits in width.

Curtain Specifications

• A total of ten curtains are required for construction, each measuring four by ten cubits. This leads to an aggregate size for the tabernacle's covering.

• The cumulative length from all curtains totals to 40 cubits by combining their widths effectively.

Covering the Structure

• Discussion continues on how these curtains will cover the wooden structure previously mentioned. It highlights how they wrap around to form a complete enclosure.

• Emphasis is placed on ensuring that any proposed structures align with these measurements; otherwise, discrepancies arise regarding coverage by curtains.

Conclusion on Structural Integrity

• The conversation concludes with references to First Kings chapter 6 regarding Solomon's construction efforts, reinforcing historical context related to tabernacle design.

Construction of the Temple: A Historical Perspective

Timeline from Exodus to Solomon's Temple

• The construction of the temple began in the fourth year of Solomon's reign, specifically in the month of Zif, which is the second month.

• It has been 480 years since the Israelites' exodus from Egypt when Moses built the tabernacle; this marks a significant historical timeline.

• To put this into perspective, it is noted that this duration is almost double that of the United States' 250 years of independence.

Condition and Significance of the Tabernacle

• The tabernacle was made from goat skins and had endured harsh conditions over its lifespan, including movement through deserts and wars.

• After 480 years, it was practically destroyed due to constant relocation and lack of preservation during tumultuous times.

• David expressed concern for God's dwelling compared to his own luxurious cedar house, prompting him to initiate plans for a permanent temple.

Dimensions and Structure of Solomon's Temple

• According to 1 Kings 6:2, Solomon’s temple measured 60 cubits long, significantly larger than the tabernacle which was only 10 cubits high.

• The width increased as well; while the tabernacle was 8 cubits wide, Solomon's temple expanded to 20 cubits wide.

Comparison Between Tabernacle and Temple

• The key difference between them lies in their structure: while the tabernacle was mobile and temporary (made from wood and skins), Solomon’s temple was a solid building constructed with durable materials like metals and stones.

• This permanence signifies that while God allowed for a temporary dwelling (the tabernacle), He now had an enduring place among His people with the new temple.

Transitioning from Tabernacle to Temple

• Upon completion of Solomon's temple, there were discussions about what happened to the old tabernacle; it wasn't discarded but rather moved into the new structure as per Jewish historian Flavius Josephus’ account.

• In 1 Kings 8:4–6, it's confirmed that both the Ark and all sacred utensils were transferred by priests into Solomon’s newly built temple.

Understanding the Relationship Between the Tabernacle and the Temple

The Biblical Context of the Tabernacle

• The speaker emphasizes that what Josefo states is biblical, referencing a specific verse about the Ark of the Covenant being placed in its rightful place within the temple.

• Discussion on dimensions: Moses' tabernacle was 10 cubits high, 20 cubits long, while Solomon's Holy of Holies measured 20 cubits on all sides to accommodate it.

• The tabernacle was integrated into the fixed structure of Solomon's temple, with dimensions aligning perfectly for placement.

Dimensions and Structure

• Clarification that both the Holy Place and Holy of Holies have specific measurements: 20 cubits for the latter and 40 for the former.

• Reference to 1 Chronicles 9:23 indicates that even after building a temple, there were still roles related to maintaining aspects of the tabernacle.

Significance of Maintaining Both Structures

• The text highlights that God did not discard the tabernacle; instead, it was housed within Solomon's temple as part of its sacredness.

• A reading from 2 Chronicles reveals a continued reference to the tabernacle despite having a permanent temple structure.

Spiritual Implications

• Psalms are cited to illustrate an ongoing spiritual connection with both structures; even when referring to "temple," there's mention of seeking refuge in God's tabernacle.

• Emphasis on how dwelling in God's presence (the tabernacle within the temple) represents intimacy with God.

Evidence Supporting Continuity

• Psalm references indicate that even after destruction, there remains a notion of residing in God's tabernacle, suggesting its enduring significance.

• Further evidence from Psalms shows dual references to sanctuary and tabernacle, reinforcing their interconnectedness throughout scripture.

Conclusion on Divine Presence

• Revelation mentions both "temple" and "tabernacle," indicating they serve distinct yet complementary roles in understanding divine habitation.

• Transitioning into discussions about John 14:1–3 leads into reflections on how these concepts relate to believers today.

Understanding the Tabernacle and Our Bodies

The Comparison of Body to Tabernacle

• The discussion begins with a reference to 2 Corinthians 5:1, where the body is compared to a tabernacle, indicating it is a temporary dwelling for God.

• The tabernacle is described as a structure that deteriorates over time, paralleling the human body's experience of aging and suffering.

• There’s an emphasis on the contrast between the temporary nature of our bodies (the tabernacle) and the eternal house in heaven that awaits believers.

The Nature of Our Existence

• The speaker reflects on personal experiences of pain and suffering, highlighting that these physical ailments are part of living in a temporary body.

• It is asserted that while our current bodies are subject to decay, there exists an eternal body promised by God which will not suffer from such limitations.

Hope for Eternal Life

• A key point made is that believers will retain their identity in their new eternal bodies; they will still be themselves but transformed.

• This transformation offers hope against the struggles faced in mortal life, emphasizing God's promise of renewal.

Longing for Heavenly Rebirth

• Reference to groaning for heavenly attire suggests a deep yearning among believers for their future glorified state.

• The idea presented is that our existence in heaven will not merely be about residing somewhere but being fully realized in an eternal form.

Assurance Through Faith

• Believers are reminded that even amidst suffering, they can find comfort knowing they are not alone; God provides assurance through His Spirit.

• A call to focus on unseen realities rather than temporal struggles reinforces faith's role in enduring life's challenges.

Final Reflections on Renewal

• Concluding thoughts emphasize how despite physical deterioration, spiritual renewal occurs daily through faith and connection with God.

• Encouragement is given to hold onto this hope as it leads to greater glory beyond present tribulations.

God's Preparation for a New You

The Promise of Transformation

• The speaker emphasizes that God is not only preparing a place for individuals but also transforming them into a new version of themselves, highlighting the spiritual journey and growth.

• A quote shared by the speaker reflects a commitment to serving God: "I prefer to wear out for the Lord than to rust." This illustrates the importance of active faith and dedication.

Personal Testimony and Dedication

• The speaker shares their personal experience of dedicating their youth to God since baptism at 18, expressing joy in knowing that their physical body will be transformed into something eternal rather than discarded.

• Encouragement is given to continue serving in church and community, reinforcing that even if unrecognized on Earth, God acknowledges these efforts with an eternal reward.

Message of Hope and Prayer

• A prayer is offered for those feeling worn down by life or caring for loved ones who are suffering. It addresses mental, emotional, psychological, or physical exhaustion.

• The prayer reassures listeners that this world is not the end; there is hope beyond current struggles. It references biblical examples of hope through tabernacles and sanctuaries.

Conclusion and Blessing

• The message concludes with gratitude for health and the opportunity to share God's word. It reinforces the idea that hope exists even in suffering, promising comfort from God in times of distress.