Topical Bible: Death: Miscellaneous Subjects: Putting off This Tabernacle

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The concept of "putting off this tabernacle" is a metaphorical expression found in the New Testament, referring to the death of the physical body. This imagery is rooted in the understanding of the body as a temporary dwelling place, akin to a tent or tabernacle, which is eventually set aside. The Apostle Peter uses this metaphor to describe his impending death, emphasizing the transient nature of earthly life and the anticipation of eternal life with Christ.

In 2 Peter 1:13-14 , Peter writes, "I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of my body, because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me." Here, Peter acknowledges the temporary nature of his physical existence and the certainty of his departure from this world. The "tent" or "tabernacle" signifies the body as a temporary abode for the soul, which will be laid aside at death.

This metaphor aligns with the broader biblical teaching that life on earth is temporary and that believers are sojourners awaiting their eternal home. The Apostle Paul echoes a similar sentiment in 2 Corinthians 5:1 : "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is dismantled, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands." Paul contrasts the temporary, fragile nature of the earthly body with the eternal, imperishable nature of the heavenly dwelling promised to believers.

The imagery of putting off the tabernacle also reflects the Christian hope in the resurrection and the transformation of the body. In 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 , Paul explains, "So will it be with the resurrection of the dead: What is sown is perishable; it is raised imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body." The perishable nature of the earthly body is contrasted with the imperishable, glorified body that believers will receive in the resurrection.

The notion of putting off the tabernacle underscores the Christian perspective on death as a transition rather than an end. It is a passage from the temporal to the eternal, from the earthly to the heavenly. This understanding provides comfort and hope to believers, assuring them of their future with Christ and the ultimate redemption of their bodies.

In summary, the metaphor of putting off this tabernacle serves as a poignant reminder of the temporary nature of earthly life and the hope of eternal life with God. It encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on the promises of God and the assurance of resurrection and transformation through Jesus Christ.

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2 Peter 1:14
Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ has showed me.
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