SANCTUARY

“And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.” (Revelation 21:3, KJV).

ABSTRACT

The ancient sanctuary serves as a profound symbol of divine redemption, illustrating God’s desire for intimate communion with humanity. This sacred structure, ordained on Sinai, reveals the gospel’s essence through its design and services, offering timeless lessons on salvation, duty, and love. Exploring its significance unveils Christ’s redemptive ministry and calls us to deeper faithfulness in our spiritual journey and communal responsibilities.

REDEMPTION REVEALED!

From ancient times, the Almighty Creator has yearned to make His abode amongst humanity, a profound desire manifested vividly through the sanctuary. Ordained atop Sinai’s majestic heights, this sacred structure was no mere edifice of stone and fabric, but a living, breathing symbol of divine-human communion, a tangible echo of God’s yearning heart. Within its hallowed spaces, the grand narrative of redemption unfolds, the very essence of the gospel message, whispering promises of salvation. In this exploration, we shall delve into the depths of the sanctuary’s significance, tracing its construction, unveiling its purpose, and extracting timeless lessons that resonate with us today. Through careful examination, guided by theological insight and scriptural precision, we aspire to reveal how this holy institution not only prefigured the redemptive ministry of Christ but continues to beckon each of us into a more intimate understanding of God’s boundless love, our sacred duties towards Him, and our unwavering obligations to those around us. As the prophet Jeremiah exclaimed, “Behold, I will bring it health and cure, and I will cure them, and will reveal unto them the abundance of peace and truth.” (Jeremiah 33:6). Are we ready to embark on this sacred journey, to unlock the timeless truths enshrined within the sanctuary’s very being, and experience the abundance of peace and truth God promises? Ellen G. White sets the stage for understanding: “From the beginning, God purposed to manifest His glory through His people Israel. In bestowing so great favors upon them, He desired to lead them to serve Him, to be witnesses for Him.” (The Signs of the Times, September 25, 1901). This purpose is further highlighted: “The tabernacle erected by Moses in the wilderness was a pattern of the heavenly sanctuary.” (The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, p. 270). Verses such as these illuminate the divine blueprint: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14, KJV). “And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.” (Exodus 25:8, KJV). Ellen G. White illuminates further: “The sanctuary in heaven is the very center of Christ’s work in behalf of men. It concerns every soul living upon the earth. It opens to view the plan of redemption, bringing us down to the very close of time and revealing the triumphant issue of the contest between righteousness and sin.” (The Great Controversy, p. 488, 1911). Sr. White adds: “The subject of the sanctuary and the investigative judgment should be clearly understood by the people of God. All need a knowledge for themselves of the position and work of their great High Priest.” (The Great Controversy, p. 488, 1911). But what precise instructions accompanied the divine mandate to build this earthly replica?

DIVINE DESIGN DARES!

When the divine mandate echoed forth to Israel to erect the sanctuary, it was accompanied by meticulous instructions, a testament to God’s precise nature. Exodus 25:8-9 resounds with the command, “And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them. According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.” This was no haphazard design, born of human ingenuity, but a precise replica of the celestial sanctuary, a shadow cast from the courts of heaven itself, as Hebrews 8:5 reveals. The scripture confirms this heavenly archetype: “Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.” (Hebrews 8:5). Sr. White elucidates this divine mirroring, stating, “That sanctuary, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the great original, of which the sanctuary built by Moses was a copy.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, page 357). Just as an artist meticulously copies a masterpiece, the earthly sanctuary was to mirror the heavenly archetype, its every detail imbued with spiritual significance, foreshadowing the greater ministry of Christ in realms unseen. This divine precision is further emphasized as David instructed Solomon: “All this, said David, the Lord made me understand in writing by his hand upon me, even all the works of this pattern.” (1 Chronicles 28:19). Scriptures such as these underscore the heavenly model: “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). “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). Ellen G. White elaborates: “The holy places made with hands were to be ‘figures of the true,’ ‘patterns of things in the heavens’ (Hebrews 9:24, 23)–a miniature representation of the heavenly temple where Christ, our great High Priest, after offering His life as a sacrifice, was to minister in the sinner’s behalf.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 343, 1890). Sr. White further emphasizes the importance of this pattern: “The pattern of that tabernacle was shown to Moses in the mount, and he was commanded to make everything in accordance therewith. So also in the gospel age, the Lord Jesus Christ is building the spiritual temple of God in our world, after the pattern shown Him.” (The Home Missionary, November 1, 1893). And again, she highlights the direct divine instruction: “Moses was a type of Christ. As Moses built the earthly sanctuary after the pattern showed him in the mount, so Christ builds the spiritual temple of God in the heart.” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 1, p. 243). If God invested such infinite care in the earthly sanctuary’s form and function, should we not, as recipients of His grace, strive for equal diligence in our worship and devotion, ensuring our service reflects the heavenly pattern? But what spirit animated the offerings for its construction?

WILLING WORSHIP WARRIORS!

The sinews of the sanctuary’s construction, the very materials that shaped its form, were not commanded as tribute but flowed freely from willing hearts, an outpouring of devotion. Exodus 25:2 directs, “Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.” This divine requisition underscored the essence of true worship – a voluntary surrender, a joyful relinquishing for the sake of the divine cause. The willingness of the people was highlighted: “And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord’s offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments.” (Exodus 35:21). Sr. White poignantly highlights this spiritual principle: “Devotion to God and a spirit of sacrifice were the first requisites in preparing a dwelling-place for the Most High.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, page 343). The sanctuary was not built on compulsion, but on the bedrock of willing sacrifice, each offering a fragrant testament to a heart aligned with God’s purpose. The cheerful giver is indeed blessed: “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Verses such as these emphasize generous giving: “Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.” (Proverbs 3:9-10, KJV). “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” (Luke 6:38, KJV). Ellen G. White explains: “The freewill offerings for the tabernacle were an expression of gratitude and devotion on the part of the people of Israel. They were prompted by the Holy Spirit of God. It was from willing hearts and liberal hands that the Lord received gifts for the building of the tabernacle.” (The Bible Echo, and Signs of the Times, November 15, 1893). Sr. White also adds to the extent of their generosity: “The people gave freely, even more than could be used, and it was necessary to restrain their liberality.” (The Bible Echo, and Signs of the Times, November 15, 1893). As we reflect upon our own lives, let us examine the spirit of our giving. Do we offer our tithes, talents, and time as grudging duty, or as overflowing expressions of love and gratitude, mirroring the willing hearts of ancient Israel? But where did divinity and humanity converge in this sacred space?

GLORY GATHERING GROUND!

Upon its completion, the sanctuary transcended mere structure, becoming a sacred nexus, a designated meeting place where the transcendent God condescended to commune with His chosen people. Exodus 40:34-38 vividly portrays this awesome encounter: “Then a cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation, because the cloud abode thereon, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.” The very presence of God manifested in palpable form, an overwhelming radiance that even Moses, the divinely appointed leader, could not penetrate. The scripture further notes the continuity of this divine presence: “For the cloud of the Lord was upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.” (Exodus 40:38). This magnificent manifestation declared that God is not distant or detached, but actively, intimately present amidst His people, eager to engage with those who seek Him. God’s promise to dwell with His people is everlasting: “And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their God.” (Exodus 29:45). Scriptures such as these affirm God’s abiding presence: “And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night.” (Exodus 13:21, KJV). “My tabernacle also shall be with them: yea, I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” (Ezekiel 37:27, KJV). Ellen G. White emphasizes the purpose of the sanctuary in revealing God’s presence: “The sanctuary was built for the indwelling of God, to be a habitation for His glory.” (The Southern Watchman, March 27, 1902). Sr. White also describes the impact of this divine presence: “The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle, so that Moses was not able to enter into the tent of the congregation. When the glory of God is thus revealed, it should inspire the people with awe and reverence.” (The Bible Echo, and Signs of the Times, November 1, 1892). In our modern lives, do we cultivate spaces within our hearts, sanctuaries of the soul, where God’s presence may dwell and manifest, transforming us and illuminating our path? But to whom were the sanctuary services entrusted?

SACRED SERVICE SUMMONS!

The intricate services within the sanctuary were not entrusted to the masses, but to a specific tribe, the Levites, underscoring the sanctity and specialized nature of spiritual leadership. Numbers 1:53; 3:6-10 delineates this divine assignment, designating the Levites to the sacred duties, highlighting that spiritual service is a calling both honored and demanding. This separation for service was divinely mandated: “But thou shalt appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of testimony, and over all the vessels thereof, and over all things that belong to it: they shall bear the tabernacle, and all the vessels thereof; and they shall minister unto it, and shall encamp round about the tabernacle.” (Numbers 1:50). Hebrews 7:5 further reveals that the Levitical priesthood was sustained through the tithes of the people, a divinely ordained system of support. The law specifically commanded this provision: “And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham.” (Hebrews 7:5). Sr. White elaborates on this principle of stewardship: “He places His treasures in the hands of men, but requires that one-tenth shall be faithfully laid aside for His work.” (Testimonies for the Church, Volume 6, page 386). The financial support of God’s work is not a mere suggestion but a divine ordinance, ensuring the propagation of truth and the sustenance of those dedicated to spiritual ministry. Verses such as these highlight consecrated service: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.” (1 Peter 2:9, KJV). “And I will also take of them for priests and for Levites, saith the Lord.” (Isaiah 66:21, KJV). Ellen G. White clarifies the Levites’ role: “The Levites were chosen by God for the service of the sanctuary. This was a high and holy honor. They were set apart from the other tribes of Israel to minister in holy things.” (The Review and Herald, July 29, 1890). Sr. White further explains the importance of their support: “The tithing system is beautiful in its simplicity and equity. All may feel that they can act a part in carrying forward the precious work of salvation. It is adapted to all degrees of wealth and education. All can feel that they are privileged to be colaborers with Christ.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 463). As we consider our own roles in God’s work, do we recognize the sacred trust placed in our hands to support His cause, understanding that our faithfulness directly impacts the advancement of His kingdom? But what profound ritual pulsed at the heart of these services?

ATONEMENT AWAKENING!

At the heart of the sanctuary services pulsed the annual Day of Atonement, a solemn, profound ritual, Leviticus 16:29-34 details this sacred day, marked by deep introspection, sacrifice, and the symbolic transfer of sin, all pointing towards the ultimate atonement to come. This was not a superficial cleansing, but a deep spiritual purging, anticipating the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice. The command for this annual atonement was clear: “And this shall be a statute for ever unto you: that in the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, ye shall afflict your souls, and do no work at all, whether it be one of your own country, or a stranger that sojourneth among you: For on that day shall the priest make an atonement for you, to cleanse you, that ye may be clean from all your sins before the Lord.” (Leviticus 16:29-30). Sr. White expounds on this typological significance: “In the type, this great work of atonement, or blotting out of sins, was represented by the services of the day of atonement—the cleansing of the earthly sanctuary.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, page 358). The Day of Atonement was a symbolic drama, enacting God’s ultimate desire not just to forgive sin, but to eradicate it completely from our lives, cleansing both the individual and the sanctuary of defilement. The efficacy of this atonement is proclaimed: “For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me.” (Hebrews 10:4-5). Verses such as these reveal redemptive cleansing: “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” (Isaiah 1:18, KJV). “And the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7, KJV). Ellen G. White further explains the significance of the Day of Atonement: “The cleansing of the sanctuary involved an investigative judgment. This work must first be performed in the sanctuary in heaven, before the coming of Christ to redeem His people; for when He comes, His reward is with Him to give to every man according to his works.” (The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, p. 266). Sr. White connects it directly to our personal experience: “As the priest, in the daily service, sprinkled the blood of the sin offering in the holy place, so Christ sprinkles His blood in the heavenly sanctuary in behalf of sinners. As this typical service cleansed the earthly sanctuary, so the blood of Christ cleanses the heavenly sanctuary.” (The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, p. 265). Do we, in our daily walk, approach God with hearts contrite and repentant, truly seeking the complete cleansing He offers, embracing the atonement that makes us whole? But how does this ancient sanctuary speak to our modern existence?

MODERN MESSAGE MARVELS!

Many ponder the relevance of the ancient sanctuary to our modern existence, questioning its application in a world vastly removed from ancient Israel. Daniel 8:14 boldly proclaims, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.” This prophetic declaration extends the sanctuary’s significance far beyond the earthly tabernacle, linking it directly to Christ’s ongoing heavenly ministry, affirming that the work of atonement initiated in type continues in substance. The heavenly sanctuary is a reality: “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). Sr. White powerfully reinforces this contemporary relevance: “Such subjects as the sanctuary, in connection with the 2,300 days, the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, are perfectly calculated to explain the past Advent Movement.” (Early Writings, page 63). Understanding the sanctuary and its prophetic connections is not merely historical exercise but a vital key to comprehending our place in prophetic time, illuminating Christ’s present ministry on our behalf and anchoring our faith in the glorious future He has ordained. The book of Revelation reveals the heavenly sanctuary is open: “And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.” (Revelation 11:19). Verses such as these affirm enduring truth: “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 such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens.” (Hebrews 7:26, KJV). Ellen G. White states plainly the importance of understanding the sanctuary: “The subject of the sanctuary and the investigative judgment should be clearly understood by the people of God. All need a knowledge for themselves of the position and work of their great High Priest. Otherwise it will be impossible for them to exercise the faith which is essential at this time or to occupy the position that God designs them to fill.” (The Great Controversy, p. 488, 1911). Sr. White emphasizes its role in our present understanding of Christ’s work: “The sanctuary in heaven is the very center of Christ’s work in behalf of men. It concerns every soul living upon the earth. It opens to view the plan of redemption, bringing us down to the very close of time, and revealing the triumphant issue of the contest between righteousness and sin.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 343, 1890). Do we grasp the profound truth that the sanctuary’s message is not confined to the past, but resonates powerfully in our present, shaping our understanding of salvation and destiny? But how do these concepts reflect God’s boundless love?

LOVE LIGHT LEGACY!

How do these intricate concepts of the sanctuary, its design, service, and purpose, reflect the boundless love of our Creator? The very essence of the sanctuary, from its inception to its services, pulses with divine affection, a yearning for connection. The desire of God to dwell amongst His people, initiating the sanctuary’s construction, asserts His longing for intimacy, for unbroken fellowship with humanity. This yearning is not born of divine need, but of pure, unadulterated love, a desire to bridge the chasm sin has created. As the prophet Zephaniah declared, God rejoices over us with singing: “The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17). As Isaiah 43:25 declares with resounding grace, “I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” This divine erasure of sin is not a cold, legal transaction, but a passionate act of love, driven by God’s intrinsic nature to forgive and redeem. His love is everlasting: “The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” (Jeremiah 31:3). Sr. White emphasizes the depth of this sacrifice, revealing, “Christ was treated as we deserve, that we might be treated as He deserves.” (Desire of Ages, page 25). In the sanctuary’s symbolism and Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, justice and mercy intertwine, a breathtaking tapestry of love woven for our salvation, assuring us of God’s unwavering commitment to our eternal well-being. Verses such as these proclaim divine affection: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, KJV). “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8, KJV). Ellen G. White further expresses the motivation of divine love: “It was love for man that led God to give his only-begotten Son to die for the fallen race. It was love that prompted Christ to leave his home in heaven and come to this earth to suffer and die.” (The Bible Echo, and Signs of the Times, June 1, 1891). Sr. White speaks of the sanctuary as a demonstration of this love: “In the sanctuary service, God has provided a lesson of His love, His mercy, and His justice.” (The Bible Echo, and Signs of the Times, July 1, 1892). Is it not awe-inspiring to realize that the very architecture of salvation, the sanctuary itself, is a monument erected to showcase the immeasurable love of God? But what transformative response does this divine love demand from us?

REDEMPTION RESPONSE RALLY!

Understanding the depth of divine love demonstrated in the sanctuary demands a transformative response from each of us, a life lived in grateful obedience. Romans 12:1 implores us, “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” This is not a call to passive religiosity, but to active, consecrated living, where every facet of our being is yielded to divine purpose, reflecting the holiness of the sanctuary in our daily conduct. We are called to holiness: “Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:16). Sr. White powerfully articulates the impact of genuine faith: “Those who receive the gospel as a living, sanctifying principle will realize that they are bought with a price.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, page 301). Recognizing the immense cost of our redemption, symbolized within the sanctuary’s sacrificial system, should ignite within us a fire of devotion, compelling us to live lives of reverence, purity, and unwavering faithfulness to His divine calling. We are to walk in newness of life: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4). Verses such as these urge consecrated living: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1, KJV). “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2, KJV). Ellen G. White connects our response directly to understanding the sanctuary: “A correct understanding of the ministration in the heavenly sanctuary is the foundation of our faith.” (The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, p. 809). Sr. White calls for a practical outworking of this understanding: “As we learn what Christ is to us and what we are to Christ, the lessons are of a character to inspire the soul with love, faith, and obedience.” (The Bible Echo, and Signs of the Times, January 1, 1893). Do we perceive our lives as sanctuaries consecrated to God, temples where His Spirit dwells and His will is enacted, reflecting the profound responsibilities born of divine grace? But how does this mercy extend outward to our neighbors?

MERCY MISSION MARCH!

If the sanctuary was a place of atonement for individuals, it was also intrinsically linked to the entire community of Israel, a space for corporate reconciliation and cleansing. Bearing this communal dimension in mind, what responsibilities do we bear towards our neighbors, those who share our earthly pilgrimage? Galatians 6:2 gently exhorts, “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Just as the sanctuary services addressed the collective spiritual needs of Israel, we are called to shoulder the burdens of those around us, extending the mercy and compassion we have received from God. We are to love our neighbours as ourselves: “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:31). Sr. White beautifully illustrates this outward flow of divine love: “Love is the basis of godliness… Those who are willing to be taught by God will seek to help others.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, page 384). Our love for God, ignited by the sanctuary’s message of redemption, must inevitably overflow into tangible acts of love for our fellow human beings, bridging divides, offering solace, and extending the very grace that has transformed our own lives. We are to show mercy: “But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” (Matthew 9:13). Verses such as these call for compassionate outreach: “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.” (Hebrews 10:24, KJV). “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” (James 1:27, KJV). Ellen G. White emphasizes this outward focus: “God’s plan is that we shall be laborers together with Him, and that our lifelight shall shine forth to the world.” (The Bible Echo, and Signs of the Times, July 1, 1892). Sr. White links this directly to our understanding of God’s character revealed in the sanctuary: “The very atmosphere of heaven is love. Into that atmosphere Christians on earth are to come, and to let it flow out again, to be felt in every transaction of life.” (The Bible Echo, and Signs of the Times, July 1, 1892). In our interactions with the world, do we reflect the sanctuary’s spirit of atonement, becoming agents of healing and reconciliation, extending God’s love to a broken world?

FINAL FAITH FULFILLMENT!

The sanctuary stands as a timeless testament to God’s multifaceted character – His holiness, His unwavering mercy, and His unyielding justice, all harmoniously revealed in His plan of salvation. It is a living panorama of Christ’s redemptive ministry, a blueprint for our spiritual journey, and a call to faithful living in a world desperately seeking divine truth. As we contemplate these sacred truths, may we be moved to cultivate lives that honor His divine presence, actively support His global work, and generously extend His transformative grace to every soul we encounter. The sanctuary is far more than ancient history; it is a vibrant, relevant reality, beckoning us towards deeper faithfulness, unwavering hope, and a life transformed by divine love, today and for eternity. Let us heed the call of the Most High: “And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.” (Exodus 25:8). May we truly make our hearts and lives sanctuaries where God can dwell, and through us, reveal His glory to the world. Sr. White summarizes the enduring lesson: “The sanctuary was the great object-lesson for man, and it is still to be regarded as such. It is ever to be kept in mind by the children of God.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 377). And she leaves us with a powerful closing thought: “The subject of the sanctuary is the key which explains the mystery of disappointment of July 1844, revealing a complete system of truth, harmonious and perfect.” (Early Writings, p. 252).

If you have a prayer request, please leave it in the comments below. Prayer meetings are held on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. To join, enter your email address in the comments section.

PEOPLE OF THE BOOK

SANCTUARY

Leave a comment Cancel reply