1 Chronicles 17:5

For I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought Israel up out of Egypt until this day, but I have moved from tent to tent and dwelling to dwelling.

Study Bible

For I have not dwelt in a house
This phrase highlights God's choice not to reside in a permanent structure. In the ancient Near East, deities were often associated with temples, but the God of Israel emphasizes His transcendence and freedom from human constraints. This reflects His omnipresence and sovereignty, distinguishing Him from the gods of surrounding nations who were believed to be confined to temples.

from the day I brought Israel up out of Egypt
This refers to the Exodus, a foundational event in Israel's history, symbolizing God's deliverance and covenant faithfulness. It underscores God's active role in Israel's formation as a nation. The Exodus is frequently referenced throughout Scripture as a demonstration of God's power and commitment to His people, serving as a type of Christ's redemptive work.

until this day
This phrase indicates the continuity of God's presence with Israel throughout their history, from the Exodus to the time of David. It emphasizes God's unchanging nature and His ongoing relationship with His people, despite their frequent disobedience and the passage of time.

but I have moved from tent to tent
The use of tents signifies the temporary and mobile nature of God's dwelling among His people. The tabernacle, a tent-like structure, was the center of worship and symbolized God's presence during Israel's wilderness wanderings. This mobility allowed God to accompany Israel on their journey, highlighting His willingness to be with them wherever they went.

and dwelling to dwelling
This phrase reinforces the idea of God's presence being adaptable and not confined to a single location. It suggests a dynamic relationship with His people, where God meets them in various circumstances and places. This foreshadows the New Testament revelation of God dwelling among humanity in the person of Jesus Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14), and later, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God (Yahweh)
The speaker in this verse, expressing His presence and guidance with the Israelites.

2. David
The king of Israel at the time, who desires to build a permanent house (temple) for God.

3. Israel
The nation God brought out of Egypt, whom He has been leading and dwelling among.

4. Egypt
The place of bondage from which God delivered the Israelites.

5. Tabernacle (Tent)
The temporary dwelling place of God among His people during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

God's Presence is Not Limited by Structures
God emphasizes that He has not been confined to a physical building, highlighting His omnipresence and sovereignty.

The Journey of Faith
Just as God moved with the Israelites, our faith journey involves movement and change, trusting in God's guidance.

God's Faithfulness Through Transitions
Despite the lack of a permanent structure, God remained faithful to His people, reminding us of His steadfastness in our own life transitions.

The Temporary vs. The Eternal
The temporary nature of the Tabernacle points to the eternal dwelling we have with God through Christ, encouraging us to focus on eternal values.

God's Initiative in Relationship
God initiated the relationship with Israel, moving with them, which reflects His desire for a personal relationship with us today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's presence in a tent rather than a temple affect your view of where and how you worship?

2. In what ways can you see God's faithfulness in your own life transitions, similar to His faithfulness to Israel?

3. How does the concept of God moving with His people challenge or encourage you in your current life situation?

4. What are some "temporary structures" in your life that you might be relying on instead of focusing on eternal truths?

5. How can you cultivate a deeper personal relationship with God, knowing that He desires to dwell with you, as He did with Israel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
Describes the setting up of the Tabernacle, emphasizing God's presence with His people in a movable tent.

2 Samuel 7
Parallel account of God's covenant with David, where God reiterates His dwelling in a tent.

Acts 7
Stephen's speech references God's dwelling in the Tabernacle, highlighting the transient nature of God's presence before the temple.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly Tabernacle as a shadow of heavenly realities, pointing to the impermanence of the old covenant.