Home » Vol. 22: 2nd Quarter 2019 » The Spiritual Meaning of the Feast of Tabernacles

The Spiritual Meaning of the Feast of Tabernacles

 

At the time of the great fall harvest season, God set His “Feast of Tabernacles.” The word “tabernacle” merely means “booth,” or “kiosk,” a temporary domicile. God said, “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, 

“Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the feast of tabernacles for seven days unto the Lord. 

“On the first day shall be an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein…Also in the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when ye have gathered in the fruit of the land, ye shall keep a feast unto the Lord seven days: on the first day shall be a sabbath, and on the eighth day shall be a sabbath. 

“And ye shall take you on the first day the boughs of goodly trees, branches of palm trees, and the boughs of thick trees, and willows of the brook; and ye shall rejoice before the Lord your God seven days. 

“And ye shall keep it a feast unto the Lord seven days in the year. It shall be a statute for ever in your generations: ye shall celebrate it in the seventh month. 

“Ye shall dwell in booths seven days; all that are Israelites born shall dwell in booths: 

“That your generations may know that I made the children of Israel to dwell in booths, when I brought them out of the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. 

“And Moses declared unto the children of Israel the feasts of the Lord” (Leviticus 23:33-35, 39-44). 

Notice that the Feast of Tabernacles, or little “booths,” was coincident with the time of the gathering in of the fruit of the land—a festival which emphasized the harvest. Notice also that God said the purpose for their dwelling in these little tabernacles or temporary domiciles for seven days was so that they would remember that God “made the children of Israel to dwell in booths…” 

God reveals that He has placed within each human being the “spirit in man,” or the human spirit, which, while it has no separate consciousness or intelligence apart from the brain, it is nevertheless spiritual. 

Paul wrote, “The spirit itself [God’s Holy Spirit] beareth witness with OUR SPIRIT that we are the children of God” (Romans 8:16). All of us are endowed with the human spirit. This entire eighth chapter of the book of Romans says a great deal about how God’s Holy Spirit is to dwell inside our mortal bodies. 

That there is something spiritual in connection with the human brain which man cannot destroy is obvious from Christ’s words. Christ said, “…fear not them which kill the body [Greek: soma] but are not able to kill the soul [Greek: psuche]: but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna” (Matthew 10:28). Notwithstanding the fact that the traditional concept of the “immortal soul” is erroneous, it is clear from Jesus’ words that there IS something spiritual in connection with the human mind which man simply cannot destroy. 

Few have understood that God is begetting children; that a new spiritual life is engendered within each human being who repents and receives God’s Spirit. Plainly, it is “created.” Conversion—receiving the begettal of the Holy Spirit—is not merely a change in attitude or outlook; not merely “turning over a new leaf,” or making minor adjustments in life style. It is the creation of a new creature in Christ! 

 

Feast Locations:

October 14 through October 21, 2019

Panama City Beach, Florida

White sand beaches, emerald green waters, beachside restaurants, endless shopping, and amusement parks for family fun. Church services are held daily. church activites for the whole family include karaoke, themed dance, raffle, bingo, and beach day. Mention group code 1120FR for ICG rates. Majestic Beach Resort  (866) 494-3364.

Branson, Missouri

Enjoy spectacular lakes, championship golf courses, theme parks, outlet malls, family-friendly restaurants and amazing live shows. There will be  Sabbath School for the children as well as youth activities. Everyone will enjoy the church picnic, pie contest, bingo night, karaoke, a church raffle and more! Use group code 64-499 for ICG rates. Westgate Branson Woods Resort (888) 879-0034.

Lake Tahoe, California

Kings Beach is located on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, on the California side of the border. Many people consider this Feast destination one the most beautiful places in the world. At this friendly feast location you can look forward to Bible studies, church raffle, bingo night, and annual barbeque. Lake Tahoe Accomodations 1-800-250-8013.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach has over 100 amusement parks and pavilions, 1,800 restaurants, deep sea, pier and surf fishing, endless shopping and a host of cultural activities. The entire Grand Strand area is a delightful destination for visitors of all ages. You’ll enjoy our themed church dance, bingo, Fun Show, and church raffle! Mention the ICG for church group rates. Landmark Resort (800) 845-0658.

Lake Barkley, Kentucky

A peaceful atmosphere with attractions sure to entertain the entire family. The lodge has a restaurant, game room, nature center, and rocking chairs overlooking the lake. The church will be hosting a cook-out, Bingo Fun Night, a golf outing, and Trap Shooting Day. Mention ICG for group rates. Rooms are going fast! Lake Barkley State Resort Park (800) 325-1708.

Kendall, Cumbria, England

A hilly and scenic area in the north of England, Kendal has many attractions with different zoos, local shops, steam trains, and sheep shearing events. It also has a large indoor leisure center for all the family to enjoy. There are several castles in the area and many picturesque villages. Services will be held at Stricklandgate House 01539-742600.

Nelson Bay,  Australia

Join the brethren Down Under at this beautiful Feast destination! Attractions at this year’s Feast include cruises for whale watching, dolphin watching or just admiring the scenery. There are fine dining restaurants and Hunter Valley wineries to visit and even local wineries just a short drive away. Services will be held at Nelson Bay Bowling Club 02-04981-1272.