We have to consider the Divine presence, the abiding of God with men, how it is accomplished and what it involves.
I. The dwelling of God among us in Christ Jesus, when it is a reality, and not merely an idea or a phrase, imports and of necessity secures the passing away from us of the things we have most reason to fear. When God comes to dwell among us, which can only be by dwelling in us individually, sin goes from us, in its guilt and its predominating power.
II. God comes thus to dwell with men for the development of character and for the nourishment of all goodness. The putting away of sin is but the negative part of salvation. The presence in its place of truth and duty and love and obedience this is what makes a saved man.
III. For how long does God dwell with men? Deep philosophy as well as high faith sanctions the conclusion that the God of grace, who makes covenant with man and dwells with him, is "ourGod for ever and ever," and that He "will never leave us and never forsake us."
A. Raleigh, Sermons Preached at the Dedication of Union Chapel, Islington,p. 158.
Notice:
I. God makes Himself dependent on the will of man "Let them make Me." This is true, not only of material wealth, but of man's nature. God may be thwarted by man.
II. In this Divine conception of the Church there is a place for the rich. It is not impossible for rich men to be good men. God has given their offerings a place. "This is the offering which ye shall take of them: gold."
III. Labour has its place. There was a great deal of timber required; trees had to be cut down and brought to the spot.
IV. Woman has her rights here. We read in Exodus 35:24-25, of women that were wise-hearted, who did spin with their hands.
V. There is room for genius. Precious stonesare required.
VI. The meanest is acceptable if it is the best that we can bring.
VII. Our best and our all is of no avail without the atonement of Christ.
T. Champness, New Coins from Old Gold,p. 32.
References: Exodus 25:15. S. Baring-Gould, Village Preaching for a Year,vol. ii., appendix, p. 19. Exodus 25:21 (with Revelation 11:19.). Parker The Ark of God,p. 1, and vol. ii., p. 205.