HEAVENLY HIGH PRIEST HERO!

“Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man” (Hebrews 8:1-2).

FAITH FOCUS FANTASTIC!

This article examines the centrality of Christ’s heavenly ministry in our faith, warning against earthly distractions like old Jerusalem, and urging spiritual preparation through His intercession for eternal life. Christ’s ministry centers our faith on heaven. Scripture shows this through His role as High Priest, where He intercedes for us before God. The book of Hebrews describes Christ entering the heavenly sanctuary to atone for sins, fulfilling the earthly tabernacle’s shadow. This reveals God’s plan to redeem humanity and prepare a holy people for eternity. “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:25, KJV). “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). “The scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed” (Galatians 3:8, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 350, 1900). “The Lord would have us in possession of great blessings, great glory from God, great lifting up from the world, great delight in the truth, and great comfort and consolation in the Spirit” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 5, p. 349, 1990). Thus, focusing on Christ’s work equips us for heaven’s reality. But how does this focus transcend earthly sites?

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. 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 the community toward a deeper relationship with God. Faith centers on Christ’s heavenly role. The Bible emphasizes looking beyond earthly ties to eternal hope. Christ’s ascension marks His priestly ministry, advocating for sinners before the Father. This assures forgiveness and character refinement for eternity. “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man” (Hebrews 8:1-2, KJV). “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” (Romans 8:34, KJV). “The sanctuary in heaven is the very center of Christ’s work in behalf of men. It concerns every soul living upon the earth” (The Great Controversy, p. 488, 1911). “The intercession of Christ in man’s behalf in the sanctuary above is as essential to the plan of salvation as was His death upon the cross” (The Great Controversy, p. 489, 1911). By prioritizing this, we deepen our bond with God. But what prepares us through this ministry?

INTERCESSION INCREDIBLE!

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). 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. Intercession refines character for heaven. The New Testament portrays Christ as our advocate, purifying us from sin. His ongoing work applies His sacrifice, enabling holy living. “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:25, KJV). “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). “Christ came to give Himself as a sacrifice for sin, thus to reveal to the heavenly universe that the law is as unchangeable, immutable, and eternal in its character as Jehovah Himself” (The Review and Herald, June 12, 1900). “The lovely birds making the air vocal with their happy songs, the delicately tinted flowers in their perfection perfuming the air, the lofty trees of the forest with their rich foliage of living green—all testify to the tender, fatherly care of our God and to His desire to make His children happy” (Steps to Christ, p. 10, 1892). This transformation readies us for eternity. But why avoid earthly distractions?

JERUSALEM JINX EXPOSED!

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). This path leads to spiritual strength and readiness for eternal life. Distractions hinder spiritual growth. Scripture contrasts earthly Jerusalem with the heavenly one. Focusing on physical sites diverts from Christ’s ministry. “For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all” (Galatians 4:25-26, KJV). “But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels” (Hebrews 12:22, KJV). “I also saw that Old Jerusalem never would be built up; and that Satan was doing his utmost to lead the minds of the children of the Lord into these things now, in the gathering time” (Early Writings, p. 75, 1882). “In choosing a home, God would have us consider, first of all, the moral and religious influences that will surround us and our families” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 305, 1890). Prioritizing service builds true faith. But how does intercession foster readiness?

PREP FOR PARADISE POWER!

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.” This transformation is vital, aligning us with God’s righteousness and preparing them to dwell in a sinless world. Christ’s work in the sanctuary cleanses His church, as described in Ephesians 5:25-27. Ministry readies for eternity. The Bible urges holy living in anticipation of Christ’s return. Preparation involves faith, obedience, and character development. “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness” (2 Peter 3:11, KJV). “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2, KJV). “God has a people upon the earth, who are His chosen people, who keep His commandments. He is leading, not stray offshoots, not one here and one there, but a people” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 124, 1868). “Our heavenly Father has a thousand ways to provide for us, of which we know nothing” (The Desire of Ages, p. 330, 1898). Alignment secures eternal inheritance. But how does this reflect divine love?

LOVE LIGHTNING STRIKES!

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. 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. Love bridges to grace. The New Testament reveals God’s love through Christ’s sacrifice. Intercession continues this, offering forgiveness and strength. “And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:19, KJV). “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him” (1 John 4:16, KJV). “The love which Christ diffuses through the whole being is a vitalizing power. Every vital part—the brain, the heart, the nerves—it touches with healing” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 115, 1905). “Love begets love; and thus the love of Christ displayed upon the cross woos and wins the sinner and binds him repenting to the cross” (The Signs of the Times, March 20, 1884). Restoration deepens connection. But why fix eyes on Jesus?

CHRIST CALL ADVENTURE!

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. Let us focus on Christ’s intercession and allow His grace to prepare us for eternity. Focus perfects faith. Scripture calls for prioritizing Christ above earthly concerns. Readiness unlocks promises. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33, KJV). “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20, KJV). “The life of Christ was a life of humble simplicity, yet how infinitely exalted was his mission. Christ is our example in all things” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 127, 1868). “A Christian reveals true humility by showing the gentleness of Christ, by being always ready to help others, by speaking kind words and performing unselfish acts, which elevate and ennoble the most sacred message that has come to our world” (The Signs of the Times, September 15, 1887). Grace readies for eternity. But what centers faith ultimately?

ETERNAL VICTORY VISTA!

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. Faith transforms through sanctuary work. The Bible promises cleansing and readiness for inheritance. Prioritizing aligns with God’s will. “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9, KJV). “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first” (1 Thessalonians 4:16, KJV). “In His life on earth, Christ lifts the veil that conceals the invisible world from our view, and reveals the power that is constantly exercised for our good” (The Signs of the Times, June 26, 1901). “The righteous will be preserved in the midst of these commotions, as Noah was preserved in the ark. God will be their refuge, and under his wings shall they trust” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 111, 1890). Alignment secures inheritance.

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HEAVENLY HIGH PRIEST HERO!

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