https://podcast.preppedforseminary.com/creation-temple-and-the-beatific-vision/
In the opening chapters of Genesis, we are introduced to the Garden of Eden—a sacred space where humanity lived in unbroken communion with God. This theme of sacred space reverberates throughout the Bible, culminating in the ultimate hope of the redeemed: the beatific vision, where we will dwell with God face to face.
This post will explore the connection between creation, sacred spaces, and our eternal destiny in God’s presence. By tracing the thread from Eden to the Tabernacle, the temple, and ultimately to Christ and the New Jerusalem, we’ll uncover how God’s desire to dwell with His people shapes our faith and mission.
Sacred Spaces: Meeting God in Holiness
Sacred spaces in Scripture are not merely geographical locations; they are places where God’s presence is uniquely experienced.
- Eden: The First Sacred Space
In Eden, humanity enjoyed direct fellowship with God. Genesis 3:8 describes God walking in the garden, a striking image echoed in Leviticus 26:12, where God promises to walk among His people. Eden was more than a garden; it was a divine dwelling—a prototype of the Tabernacle and temple to come. - The Tabernacle and Temple
After humanity’s fall, God continued establishing sacred spaces, most notably the Tabernacle and the temple. These structures were meticulously designed to reflect God’s holiness and to symbolize His desire to dwell among His people (Exodus 25–40). The Holy of Holies, the innermost sanctuary, emphasized the reverence required to approach a holy God. - Sacred Space and Worship
Sacred spaces were not just about rituals; they were places of worship and remembrance. For instance, the altar built by Joshua after crossing the Jordan (Joshua 4) commemorated God’s faithfulness. Similarly, the Tabernacle’s furnishings and rituals often pointed back to God’s redemptive acts, such as the Exodus.
Jesus: The Fulfillment of Sacred Space
The story of sacred space reaches its climax in Jesus Christ, who embodies the ultimate meeting point between God and humanity.
- The Tabernacle Becomes Flesh
John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” The Greek word for “dwelt” literally means “tabernacled,” indicating that Jesus Himself is the sacred space where heaven and earth meet. - The Temple Veil Torn
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus tore the temple veil, symbolizing the removal of barriers between God and humanity (Matthew 27:51). Worship was no longer confined to a physical location; it became a matter of spirit and truth (John 4:23). - The Church as Sacred Space
In the New Testament, the temple imagery expands to include the church. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 3:16, “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” Individual and collectively, believers become sacred spaces where God’s presence resides.
The Beatific Vision: Our Ultimate Hope
The beatific vision—seeing God face to face—ultimately fulfills the sacred space theme.
- A Face-to-Face Encounter
In Revelation 22:4, the redeemed will “see His face,” a promise that echoes Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” This direct communion with God satisfies every longing and represents the highest form of joy and fulfillment. - Transformation Through Seeing God
As 1 John 3:2 states, “We shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” The beatific vision brings us into God’s presence and transforms us to reflect His glory. - Eternal Communion
Unlike earthly experiences, which are fleeting and imperfect, the beatific vision offers eternal and unchanging communion with God. It fulfills humanity’s deepest longing to know and be known by our Creator.
Living as Sacred Spaces Today
Understanding sacred spaces and the beatific vision challenges us to live intentionally and reverently.
- Cultivating Sacred Spaces
As believers, we are called to “guard and keep” the sacred space of our lives, much like Adam’s role in Eden (Genesis 2:15). This involves living holy lives, fostering a sense of God’s presence, and maintaining a reverence for His holiness. - The Great Commission as Temple Expansion
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20) is a call to expand the sacred space of God’s presence. By making disciples, we invite others into the body of Christ, the ultimate temple. This echoes the Old Testament call to rebuild the temple, not as a physical structure but as a living, growing community of faith. - Anticipating the Beatific Vision
Our lives should be oriented toward eternity, where we will dwell fully in God’s presence. Practices like prayer, worship, and meditation on Scripture allow us to experience glimpses of the beatific vision here and now.
From Creation to New Creation
The sacred space theme in Scripture spans from Genesis to Revelation, from Eden to the New Jerusalem. In Revelation 21–22, the imagery of Eden and the temple converge in a vision of the new creation.
- God Dwells With His People
There is no temple in the new heavens and new earth because “its temple is the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb” (Revelation 21:22). God’s presence fills all of creation, fulfilling His ultimate desire to dwell with His people. - Restoration of Eden
The tree of life and the river in Revelation 22 mirror the imagery of Eden, symbolizing the restoration of what was lost in the fall. Humanity is fully reconciled to God, creation, and one another.
Sacred Spaces and Our Story
The story of sacred space is the story of God drawing near to His people. From Eden to the Tabernacle, from Christ to the church, and finally to the new creation, God’s desire is to dwell with us in perfect communion.
As we await the fullness of the beatific vision, let us live as sacred spaces, reflecting God’s presence in the world and inviting others into His story. Through holy living, faithful discipleship, and an eternal perspective, we participate in God’s mission to restore all things and prepare for the day when faith becomes sight.
Reflection Questions for Readers:
- How can you become more aware of God’s presence in your daily life?
- What steps can you take to live as a “sacred space” for God’s Spirit?
- How does the promise of the beatific vision shape your perspective on life’s challenges?
Let’s live with the hope and purpose that come from knowing we are part of God’s sacred story.