For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us (Hebrews 9:24, KJV).

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the profound shift from earthly fixations to Christ’s heavenly ministry, emphasizing spiritual preparation and divine love as revealed through Scripture and the writings of Ellen G. White. It guides the community toward eternal readiness amid worldly distractions.

FAITH’S TRUE FOCUS!

The focus of our faith transcends earthly locations, centering on Christ’s ministry in the heavenly sanctuary. His intercession not only ensures individual salvation but also prepares a holy people for eternal life. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. Christ, as our High Priest, ministers in the true tabernacle pitched by the Lord, not by man, as stated in Hebrews 8:2: “A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” Furthermore, He appears in God’s presence for us, according to Hebrews 9:24: “For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” Ellen G. White affirms, “Christ, our great High Priest, is a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man” (Christ in His Sanctuary, p. 252, 1969). Additionally, she notes, “The sacrifice of Christ as an atonement for sin is the great truth around which all other truths cluster” (Gospel Workers, p. 315, 1915). This blog explores themes of spiritual readiness, misguided priorities, and the transformative work of Christ, drawing from biblical principles and Ellen G. White’s writings to guide us toward a deeper relationship with God. But what specific role does Christ’s intercession play in refining our characters?

SANCTUARY SAVIOR STRIKES!

Christ’s intercession prepares us for eternal life by refining our characters. Hebrews 13:14 reminds us, “For here have we no continuing city, but we seek one to come.” This verse highlights our transient existence on earth and our heavenly calling. Sr. White explains that Christ’s holiness mingles with our prayers, bringing us closer to God (Review and Herald, Feb. 25, 1896, p. 9). Christ is seated at God’s right hand, ministering in the heavenly sanctuary, as in Colossians 3:1: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” Moreover, He intercedes as our High Priest who entered heaven itself, per Hebrews 4:14: “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.” Sr. White states, “Our Saviour is in the sanctuary pleading in our behalf. He is our interceding High Priest, making an atoning sacrifice for us, pleading in our behalf the efficacy of His blood” (Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 370, 1923). She further explains, “The great sacrifice had been offered and had been accepted, and the Holy Spirit which descended on the day of Pentecost carried the minds of the disciples from the earthly sanctuary to the heavenly, where Jesus entered by His own blood, to shed upon His disciples the benefits of His atonement” (Early Writings, p. 260, 1882). True worship, as Jesus told the Samaritan woman, is not tied to location but to “spirit and truth” (John 4:23-24). By focusing on Christ’s ministry, we are transformed into a body fit for the new creation. But why do some still cling to earthly sites like old Jerusalem?

JERUSALEM JINX JOLTED!

Some believe that visiting old Jerusalem is essential to strengthen faith or hasten Christ’s return. However, Sr. White warns against this distraction, emphasizing the importance of focusing on present-day service and spiritual readiness (The Present Truth, p. 13). Jerusalem’s sacredness was tarnished by its rejection of Christ and will only be restored at the end of time (Review and Herald, 1901, p. 2). Faith grows not through pilgrimages but by following Christ’s example of ministering to others and living His teachings (Review and Herald, 1896, p. 4). Earthly treasures fade, but heavenly ones endure, as in Matthew 6:19-21: “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Additionally, minds should prioritize heavenly matters over earthly, per Philippians 3:19: “Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.” Sr. White declares, “It is Satan’s work to fill men’s hearts with doubt. He leads them to look upon God as a stern judge” (Steps to Christ, p. 116, 1892). She adds, “There is not a point that needs to be dwelt upon more earnestly, repeated more frequently, or established more firmly in the minds of all than the impossibility of fallen man meriting anything by his own best good works. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ alone” (Faith and Works, p. 19, 1979). This path leads to spiritual strength and readiness for eternal life. But how does Christ’s heavenly ministry equip us for the new heaven and earth?

READINESS RALLY ROARS!

Christ’s heavenly ministry calls us to prepare for the new heaven and earth. As Hebrews 3:19 explains, unbelief kept the Israelites from the promised land, a lesson for us today. Sr. White notes, “God desires a holy people to inherit His kingdom” (Review and Herald, Feb. 25, 1896, p. 9). Isaiah 60:21 declares, “Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever.” Preparation through spiritual growth, as in 2 Peter 3:13: “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.” Transformation into Christ’s likeness is key, per 1 John 3:2: “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” Sr. White affirms, “All heaven is employed in seeking to save that which is lost” (Review and Herald, December 29, 1896, par. 1). She further states, “The unfulfilled predictions of the book of Revelation are soon to be fulfilled. This prophecy is now to be studied with diligence by the people of God and should be clearly understood” (Notebook Leaflets, 1:96, 1903). This transformation is vital, aligning us with God’s righteousness and preparing us to dwell in a sinless world. Christ’s work in the sanctuary cleanses His church, as described in Ephesians 5:25-27. But how does God’s love manifest through these heavenly truths?

LOVE’S LIGHTNING LEGACY!

God’s love shines in Christ’s intercession, which bridges our weakness with divine grace. Sr. White states, “Through Christ’s holiness, our imperfect prayers are made acceptable to God” (Review and Herald, Feb. 25, 1896, p. 9). This demonstrates that God’s love is not confined to human perfection but extends to our sincere repentance and faith. Hebrews 12:2 urges us to “fix our eyes on Jesus,” who lovingly perfects our faith. Here, grace through Christ’s advocacy is demonstrated in Romans 8:34: “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Divine love surrounds us, per Ephesians 2:4-5: “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)” Sr. White explains, “In the matchless gift of His Son, God has encircled the whole world with an atmosphere of grace as real as the air which circulates around the whole globe. All who chose to breathe this life-giving atmosphere will live and grow up to the stature of men and women in Christ Jesus” (Steps to Christ, p. 68, 1892). She adds, “True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. It is, on the contrary, an element calm and deep. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 130, 1890). By focusing on His ministry, we experience God’s transformative power, preparing us for eternal life. Truly, God’s love refines and restores us, enabling a deeper connection with Him. But why must we prioritize Christ over earthly traditions?

FOCUS FURY UNLEASHED!

Rather than clinging to earthly sites or traditions, we are called to fix our eyes on Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 describes Him as “the pioneer and perfecter of faith,” emphasizing His ongoing work in shaping our lives. Sr. White writes, “Our connection with Christ is the source of spiritual nourishment” (Review and Herald, Feb. 25, 1896, p. 9). Abraham’s delayed inheritance of the promised land (Genesis 15:16) and Israel’s unbelief (Hebrews 3:19) remind us that spiritual readiness is key to receiving God’s promises. The evidence urges steadfast focus on Christ, as in Colossians 2:6-7: “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” Holiness pursues peace, per Hebrews 12:14: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” Sr. White declares, “There is not a point that needs to be dwelt upon more earnestly, repeated more frequently, or established more firmly in the minds of all than the impossibility of fallen man meriting anything by his own best good works. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ alone” (Faith and Works, p. 19, 1979). She further notes, “The name ‘Seventh-day Adventist’ carries the true features of our faith in front and will convict the inquiring mind. Like an arrow from the Lord’s quiver, it will wound the transgressors of God’s law, and will lead to repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 224, 1862). Let us focus on Christ’s intercession and allow His grace to prepare us for eternity.

Christian faith is centered on Christ’s transformative work in the heavenly sanctuary, not on earthly locations or rituals. Through His intercession, we are drawn closer to God, cleansed, and made ready for eternal life. Sr. White emphasizes the need to follow Christ’s example in service and ministry, reflecting true worship (Review and Herald, 1896, p. 4). By prioritizing spiritual readiness, we align ourselves with God’s will and prepare for the eternal inheritance awaiting His holy people. Let us fix our eyes on Christ, who lovingly perfects our faith and leads us into His kingdom.

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SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into the truths of Christ’s heavenly ministry, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these profound themes to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned church members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about earthly focuses versus heavenly readiness in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of Christ’s intercession and God’s ultimate victory over earthly distractions?