Heavenly Temple/Sanctuary.

[phipps]

Summary: God's people in the Old Testament were told to build a sanctuary, modelled after the true sanctuary, which is in heaven.

"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" (Exodus 25:8-9).

When God instructed Moses to build the earthly sanctuary, He told him to make it according to “the pattern of the tabernacle.” God Himself gave this pattern to Moses. It was not a pattern after anything that had ever been made on Earth. This was a pattern of something only heavenly eyes had ever beheld. It was a pattern of the sanctuary in heaven.

The book of Hebrews gives us a lot of information about this heavenly sanctuary and its High Priest:

"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. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:14-16).

"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…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 8:1-2, 5).

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us" (Hebrews 9:11-12).

"Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; not that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another—He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation" (Hebrews 9:23-28).

God’s people needed the earthly sanctuary to help them understand the heavenly sanctuary and the plan of salvation. When the lamb was put on the altar it was to signify Jesus’ great sacrifice for our sins as the only way to find pardon and enter into eternal life.

The earthly sanctuary also represented Christ’s mediatory role. As the people went to the priest and watched him perform the duty of mediation in the holy and most holy place, they were to understand that we cannot approach God without Christ interceding on our behalf. So Jesus not only fulfils the role of the lamb that was sacrificed, but also the priest who steps between God and us and shows that our sins have been covered by His blood. We have been made worthy of salvation because we are covered in His righteousness, not our own.

The Bible tells us that all of this is going on right now in the heavenly sanctuary. This time it is Jesus Himself entering in with His very own precious blood to cover every sin that has been sincerely confessed. That is what Paul is talking about in Hebrews 12:24 when he says, “And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.” He also tells us, “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5).

Even the book of Revelation speaks about the tabernacle in heaven:

"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).

"And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven" (Revelation 13:6).

"And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened" (Revelation 15:5).

What a loving God we serve! He demonstrates so fully His great sacrifice for us by giving us a real life demonstration of what is taking place in heaven. We are living in a most amazing time in history as Jesus Himself bridges the gap between Earth and heaven and will one day come as King to take us home.

"For he hath looked down from the height of his sanctuary; from heaven did the LORD behold the earth" (Psalm 102:19).

 

[phipps]

Christ's Mediating Ministry - He is Our Advocate

Summary: Christ is on our side, pleading our case. He even took our punishment when we didn't deserve it.

An advocate or mediator is someone who is on your side—a person who speaks in your defence so that you can receive a fair judgment. An advocate is like a lawyer in a jury trial that defends the one being charged with a crime.

When God set up the earthly tabernacle and its system, He was giving an indication of what will take place during the final judgment of this world’s history. The heavenly court, however, is unlike any court in the world.

The lamb that was slain for the sinner in the earthly tabernacle symbolizes how in the heavenly court the guilty party has someone who is willing to take their punishment. This, of course, is Jesus, who died on the cross for our sins.

An active participant in the earthly sanctuary was the high priest. This very important person would plead the case of the sinful people in the holy place daily.

The high priest would also go before the mercy seat in the Most Holy place once a year and ask God to accept the Israelites’ repentance and the substitute sacrifice for their sins. He carried in with him the blood from the sacrifice to show that they were indeed guilty and acknowledged that they could only have forgiveness and find acceptance with God if they recognized the promised Messiah. The people of Israel knew that the lamb was only a representative of the true Messiah.

Jesus is not only the Lamb that was slain but also the High Priest who pleads our case before the throne of God and the universe:

"My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1 emphasis added). 



"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time" (1 Timothy 2:5-6 emphasis added). 



"But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises" (Hebrews 8:6 emphasis added).



After Jesus fulfilled his role as the Lamb of God on the cross, He rose from the grave and went to heaven to perform His second role as our High Priest, and this is what He is still actively doing today.

"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. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin…But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us" (Hebrews 4:14-15; 9:11-12 emphasis added).

Jesus entered into the courts of heaven with the blood of His own sacrifice and is listening to our prayers of confession and sorrow for our sins. He pleads His very own blood on our behalf, because we have acknowledged our guilt and have accepted His substitution for us. When Satan will one day stand in accusation against God’s people, we will truly understand the importance of Jesus as our Advocate. He not only speaks for us but He is also our friend (see John 15:13).

Imagine having your best friend as your lawyer or advocate. Would he not put forth his best efforts to get you a fair trial and dismissal? Since we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, we rightfully should be convicted. But because Jesus pays for our penalty, we can be freed from the condemnation we otherwise deserve (see Romans 8:1).

We couldn’t ask for more favour in the heavenly courts. With our best friend as advocate, defence lawyer, and even the one that pays our debt, and with his own Father as judge, Satan the prosecutor doesn’t stand a chance. Of course, he will try, and many times will make us feel like there is no hope as we look back on our sin-stained lives. But, Jesus still stands as High Priest and Advocate and we can rely on His expertise.

As long as we have accepted Jesus as our Advocate and our Substitute, He will work for our release from the shackles of sin. The Bible tells us that Jesus never gets discouraged and that He will win the victory. Can we turn down such a fantastic setup?

 

[phipps]

The Symbolic Sanctuary

Summary: The ceremonies performed in the ancient sanctuary—and the structure of the sanctuary itself—are symbolic of Jesus' life and ministry.

The ceremonial law prefigured the ministry of Christ. We can see this by studying the ancient sanctuary. Moses had to construct the sanctuary exactly according to the pattern shown him on mount Sinai:

"And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them" (Exodus 25:8).

"... 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).

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The earthly Old Testament sanctuary, and the entire ministry associated with it, reflects the ministry of Christ on our behalf. It is also a miniature enactment of the much greater ministry of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary, of which the earthly sanctuary was merely “a figure for the time then present” (Hebrews 9:9). The earthly was a copy of the heavenly.

"Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle" (Hebrews 8:5).

Christ entered the heavenly sanctuary that was not built by human hands after His resurrection and ascension into heaven.

"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).

The price for sin was paid for at the cross. Justice was satisfied, but the ministry of Christ did not end there. Sin still exists and sinners still have to have access to God through Christ.

The teaching that Christ's work was finished on the cross is inconsistent with the model God gave us in the sanctuary. Jesus' death and resurrection only began His ministry in the sanctuary. He was the Lamb on the altar of burnt offerings in the outer court of the tabernacle, but we also must travel into all the other areas of the sanctuary to understand the fullness of His ministry.

Jesus still has many roles to fulfil before the sin problem can be fully eradicated from us and this world forever. We serve a risen Saviour, who is our High Priest, our Advocate, our Judge, and our King who is interceding in our behalf in the heavenly sanctuary.

"We have such an high priest...in the heavens; A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man" (Hebrews 8:1-2).

The Laver and the Altar of Offering



The laver and all the vessels of the court that were used in the services connected with the altar were of brass. The entire body of the whole burnt offering and portions of various offerings were burned upon this altar. It consumed that which typified sin. Sin separates us from God, and all sin must be put away before the sinner can be at-one-ment with God. Therefore the work done upon this altar was a symbol of the final destruction of sin, which will be necessary before the redeemed can enjoy their eternal inheritance. We must remember that Christ was the Lamb who was slain, and He could not begin the rest of the sanctuary work without first going through the sacrifice on the altar in the courtyard. The services in the courtyard represented the work on Earth, while the inner sanctuary work was for the work done in heaven.


The Golden Candlestick



The golden candlestick with its seven golden lamps was on the south side of the first apartment of the sanctuary. It was made of gold beaten into shape by the workman's hammer. Christ, in explaining to John the meaning of what he had seen, said, "The seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches" (Revelation 1:12-20). The Church, represented by candlesticks, is to hold the Light of the world, Christ, high for everyone to see.


The Table of Shewbread



The table of shewbread, or showbread, was placed on the north side of the first apartment of the sanctuary. On the Sabbath day the Levites made twelve loaves of unleavened bread. During the entire week the bread lay on the table. At the end of the week it was removed and eaten by the priests. This bread symbolizes the twelve tribes of Israel in that time. However, it also represented Christ—the Bread of Life—and His living Word that brings life. We are to eat this Bread of Life by reading the Bible and obeying its life-giving words.


The Altar of Incense



The golden altar, or altar of incense, was before the veil in the first apartment of the sanctuary. The high priest alone was to perform the sacred duty of placing incense before the Lord on this altar. The altar and the fragrant incense in the earthly sanctuary were an example of the work our great High Priest, Jesus, is performing for us (Hebrews 8:5). Our prayers, like incense, go up to God with the help of our High Priest.
Romans 8:26 tells us that we "know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." This means that sometimes we don't know how to pray, but God can read our hearts, and through His Spirit, He is listening deeply to what we are saying. The sincere prayer a pleasure to God. He wants to be asked for the help we need because He so much wants to help us.


The Ark of the Covenant



The broken law contained in the Ark was the only reason for all the sacrificial services, both typical and antitypical. The cover of the Ark was called the mercy seat, and was of pure gold. There is great consolation in the fact that the Lord Himself covered the broken law with a mercy seat; and then He, the merciful God, took His position upon that seat, so that every sinner who comes confessing his sins, may receive mercy and pardon.

 

[phipps]

The Symbology of the sanctuary


The Door/Gate
The first thing we notice as we approach the sanctuary is that there is only one door. Not even a fire exit! Remember Jesus' words: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved" (John 10:9).

All that are saved are redeemed by Jesus alone. "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). The only way to God is through Christ, the only door.

The Courtyard
The entire edifice of the sanctuary was surrounded by a courtyard made of linen curtains set up in a very specific orientation. It was twice as long as it was wide (150 feet long and 75 feet wide), and was to be set up with the one opening facing east. That arrangement ensured that the worshippers and priests who stood at the door had their backs to the rising sun instead of facing it like the pagan worshipping religions of the day. God's people worship the Creator instead of the creation.

The Holy Place
The actual tabernacle stood in the west half of the courtyard. It was divided into two compartments or rooms. While the width of the two rooms was the same, the length of the first room, the holy place, was twice as long as that of the most holy place. The walls of the central structure were made of acacia boards overlaid with gold and connected with silver hardware (Exodus 26).

All who entered the holy place to minister saw themselves reflected in the golden walls on every side, reminding them that the eyes of the Lord see all. "And he made a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering of badgers' skins above that" (Exodus 36:19). The priests could look up and see that they served under a red skin. Likewise, Christians are a nation of priests that serve Jesus under His blood.

The holy place had three articles of furniture. The Golden candlestick (menorah), The Table of Shewbread andThe Alter of Incense.

The Most Holy Place
The length of the most holy place equalled its width so that it formed a square. It was also as high as it was wide and long, making it a perfect cube-just like the New Jerusalem will be (see Revelation 21:16). The apartment contained only one piece of furniture. The Ark of the Covenant.

The Veil
This veil, or curtain, separating the holy and the most holy places of the sanctuary has great significance, because it was this veil that tore at the very moment Jesus died on the cross (Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45). His death symbolized the end of the need for the exclusive Levitical priesthood to mediate between man and God.

The veil represents the body of Jesus (Hebrews 10:19-20). It was only by passing through this veil that access was possible to the most holy place (Hebrews 4:16). The tearing of the veil symbolized the death of the Lamb of God, which now permits the believer in His atonement immediate access to the Most Holy place through the new High Priest-Jesus Christ-the one and only Mediator between man and God.

Amazingfacts.org.

 

[phipps]

How It All Works
The sanctuary shows how God deals with sin. Sin cannot be ignored. Its wages are death (Romans 6:23). The law can't be changed to make sinners not guilty. Sin's wages must be paid, either by the sinner in receiving eternal death, or by Christ on the cross. Let's follow a sin as it is confessed, and then processed through the sanctuary.

The Courtyard Ministry
When a sinner became convicted of sin by the Holy Spirit and wanted to confess it, he came to the door of the courtyard with a spotless animal (usually a lamb) to sacrifice. He laid his hands on the head of the innocent victim and confessed his sin. This symbolically transferred his sin and its penalty to the lamb. Then with his own hand he had to slay the animal and shed its blood. This was to impress upon the repentant sinner that his sins would ultimately require the death of the spotless Lamb of God.

This was the part of the sinner in the sanctuary service. The priests, who represented the mediation of Christ between the guilty sinner and his God, did the rest.

After confessing his sin and slaying the lamb, the sinner went away forgiven, his sin covered by the shed blood of the victim. Of course the lamb's blood didn't cover the sin, but it represented the blood of Christ, "the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29).

After some of the blood was caught by the priest, the rest was poured out on the ground at the base of the altar and the animal was burnt on the altar. The altar symbolizes the cross where Jesus was sacrificed for the sins of the world. His blood was spilt on the ground at the foot of the cross when the centurion pierced His side (John 19:34).

The blood of the lamb, symbolically bearing the guilt of the sinner, was then taken by the priest and transferred to the holy place of the sanctuary. However, the priest never went into the sanctuary without first cleansing himself at the laver. This washing is symbolic of baptism and is listed as one of the symbols for salvation. (Acts 2:38) The Israelites had to cross the Red Sea before they were free from the bondage of Egypt. "And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea" (1 Corinthians 10:2).

So in the courtyard we pass through the fire and water. Jesus said, "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:5).

In the holy place the smoke of the incense rising from the altar represented the intersession of the Holy Spirit in Jesus' name, making our prayers of confession acceptable to the Father (Romans 8:26-27). Each day the blood, bearing the guilt, was sprinkled before the veil, thus transferring the guilt from the sinner to the tabernacle. There the guilt of the repentant sinners accumulated throughout the year until the Day of Atonement.

The Most Holy Place Ministry
Once a year, on the Day of Atonement, the high priest took two perfect kid goats, and lots were cast over them to determine which one would be the Lord's goat and which would be the scapegoat (called Azazel in Hebrew). After confessing his own sins and those of his family, the high priest placed his hands on the Lord's goat and confessed the sins of the entire congregation which had accumulated in the holy place during the year. Then the Lord's goat was slain, and the blood was taken by the high priest into the Most Holy place and offered before the mercy seat of the ark where the presence of God dwelt.

The ark of the covenant contains some of the most beautiful and significant symbolism of God's entire plan of salvation. Inside the ark, between the golden bowl of manna, symbolizing God's providence, and Aaron's rod that budded, symbolizing God's authority and discipline, were the two tables of stone on which God's finger inscribed the law that has been violated by all men (Romans 3:23). The breaking of that law is sin (1John 3:4) and the penalty for sin is death (Romans 6:23).

Between the law which condemns us to death and the all-consuming presence of God is the mercy seat, or the lid of the ark. This arrangement illustrates that only Jesus' mercy saves us from being consumed by the fiery presence and justice of God. But Jesus' mercy isn't cheap. He bought it with His own blood. He paid the wages of sin so He could offer mercy to all who will accept it.

Next, representing Christ as Mediator, the high priest transferred the sins that had polluted the sanctuary to the live goat, Azazel, which was then led away from the camp of Israelites. This symbolically removed the sins of the people and readied the sanctuary for another year of ministry. Thus, all things were right between God and His people once again.

A Broad View of Salvation
The plan of salvation is the theme of the entire Bible. The salvation of the children of Israel from Egypt follows this plan exactly. Egypt corresponded to the courtyard where justification transpired. God sacrificed all the firstborn of Egypt, representing those who will pay for their own sins. But the Israelites were allowed to substitute the blood of the Passover Lamb for their firstborn child, representing those who accept Jesus' payment. After the sacrifice came the cleansing. All of the children of Israel were "baptized" in the Red Sea (1 Corinthians 10:1-2) symbolized by the Laver.

This daily progress in character building is the process of sanctification. But what is the end result of sanctification? Eventually we come to the place where we would rather die than dishonour our Saviour by sinning. That is when the new covenant is fulfilled in us. "But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people" (Jeremiah 31:33). When God's law is our delight and pleasure and sin has no more power over us, then the process of sanctification is complete.

Atonement
For ten days leading up to the Day of Atonement, the children of Israel were to clean their camp, houses, bodies, and guilt by confessing every known fault. After the high priest went through the ritual of cleansing the sanctuary, God had a clean sanctuary and a clean people.

Now, as the real atonement is taking place in heaven, God's people must be purified again. In order to finish the cleansing of the sanctuary and bring His people to heaven, Christ cannot have any more sins confessed. The wicked will go on sinning, but they will bear their own sins and pay sin's wages in the judgment.

The righteous, on the other hand, will have gained the victory over sin through the blood of Jesus Christ. This takes place when they all have the new covenant experience, which takes the law from the stone tables and makes it an integral part of their hearts. At that time, Christ can finish cleansing His heavenly sanctuary and come for His bride because His earthly sanctuary-his people-have also been cleansed. He will have a clean sanctuary in heaven and a clean sanctuary on earth. Doesn't Jesus say that we are His temple (Ephesians 2:19-21; 1 Corinthians 3:16)?

Jesus Is the Sanctuary
This study could go on for hundreds of pages, but ultimately the central theme of the whole sanctuary system is Jesus. Jesus is the door, the spotless lamb, and our high priest. He is the light of the world and the bread of life. He is the living water in the Laver and the rock upon which is written the law of God in the ark. His love is the gold shimmering throughout the holy place. It is His blood that makes it possible for us to approach the Father. Indeed, Jesus is the essence of the temple, for He said, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. ... But he spake of the temple of his body" (John 2:19, 21).

Have you made Christ your sanctuary? The Scriptures promise: "Behold, A king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment. And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land" (Isaiah 32:1-2).

"We might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil" (Hebrews 6:18-19).

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).

https://www.amazingfacts.org/news-and-features/inside-report/magazine/id/10734/t/secrets-of-the-sanctuary

 

[phipps]

The Day of Atonement

The Day of Atonement was the highlight of the Jewish year. This solemn annual festival enacted the washing away of Israel’s sins. The sanctuary was cleansed, symbolizing the cleansing of the people’s hearts before God. This earthly cleansing represented a heavenly cleansing, when all of the sins of God’s people throughout the ages will be removed.

Leviticus 16:16 tells us about the cleansing of the earthly sanctuary:

"And he shall make an atonement for the holy place, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins: and so shall he do for the tabernacle of the congregation, that remaineth among them in the midst of their uncleanness."

Once a year, the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies (or Most Holy Place), but only after he had made atonement for his own sins and those of the priesthood. On this day, two goats were brought before the high priest. One goat was sacrificed, and the other goat was to take the record of sins upon itself, and be set free in the desert.

The Sacrificed Goat
The first goat was sacrificed on the altar. The priest would then enter the Holy of Holies, burning incense and sprinkling the blood of this goat around the ark of the covenant and on the mercy seat. On his way out of the sanctuary, the high priest would also apply the goat’s blood to the altars, symbolically atoning for the sins of the entire sanctuary.

The priest did this because God’s law had been transgressed. Pouring the blood on the mercy seat symbolized the forgiveness of sins through grace. The Day of Atonement in the earthly sanctuary allows us to understand what Christ’s ministry will look like in the heavenly sanctuary. Soon, the record of our sins will be wiped out forever.

Hebrews 9:22-24 says this:
"And according to the law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission. Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us."

The earthly record was cleansed by the goat’s blood, but the heavenly record is cleansed by Christ’s blood.

The Scapegoat
The second goat, which represented Satan, was not killed. Rather, the priest laid his hands on the goat to symbolize the record of sin being removed from us and placed on Satan, the originator of sin.

Note that the scapegoat was not killed, and was therefore not the atoner. After the priest had laid hands on the scapegoat, he set it free in the desert. In the same way, Satan will receive the guilt of sin, but will not pay for our sin through his destruction. Christ, represented by the slain goat, was not responsible for our sin, but He still atoned for our sin through His death.

 

[Thunderian]

Veithbot strikes again!

 

[phipps]

Veithbot strikes again!

Well he teaches the truth. And the truth about the heavenly sanctuary is what is important here not how I post it. Plus I did not make you read it did I?

 

[Thunderian]

Well he teaches the truth.

No, he doesn't, and while you constantly post his heresy, you don't seem to be able to defend it without resorting to more cut and paste. It's a vicious cycle.

 

[phipps]

Have you compared what Professor Veith teaches with the Bible? I know he preaches the truth, and I should know since I've known him for more than twenty years. Also I've studied the Bible and nothing he says is contrary to it. Can you make the same claims? You don't know what you're talking about. Just because you have never heard of some of the things that I've posted here doesn't mean its heresy. It means you're clueless about the subject matter. Do you know everything in the Bible? The heavenly sanctuary is in the book of Hebrews. So exactly what is the heresy about it and Jesus being the High Priest? If you disagree with it, you disagree with the Bible, not me and certainly not Professor Walter Veith.

"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. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:14-16).

"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…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 8:1-2, 5).

"But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us" (Hebrews 9:11-12).

"It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 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 9:23-24).

And don't try and put me down for how I post here. It is perfectly acceptable just like how you post is acceptable. As long we are bringing the truth of God here does it matter how its done?

If you don't like what I post and how I do it, move along. Ignore my posts and go read the posts you agree with. I am not here to please you okay?!

 

[Karlysymon]

The heavenly sanctuary is in the book of Hebrews. So exactly what is the heresy about it and Jesus being the High Priest? If you disagree with it, you disagree with the Bible, not me and certainly not Professor Walter Veith.

Well said! Christian Zionism has a stranglehold on Christendom. The (unfavorably viewed)scriptures will be jettisoned in favor of a biblically unsound, cherished tradition.
The heavenly sanctuary makes for an interesting and wide subject because it also involves judgement and it certainly changes the preconceived ideas of judgement that we were raised with. And i understand it as the reason behind (in John 14) Christ's statement to the disciples: Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father:
Inotherwords, it was better for us that He returned to heaven that we might have a better advocate.
Thanks for the thread.

 

[phipps]

Well said! Christian Zionism has a stranglehold on Christendom. The (unfavorably viewed)scriptures will be jettisoned in favor of a biblically unsound, cherished tradition.
The heavenly sanctuary makes for an interesting and wide subject because it also involves judgement and it certainly changes the preconceived ideas of judgement that we were raised with. And i understand it as the reason behind (in John 14) Christ's statement to the disciples: Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father:
Inotherwords, it was better for us that He returned to heaven that we might have a better advocate.
Thanks for the thread.

Thank you for that. I find that Christian Zionists choose their man made doctrines over the Word of God when it doesn't harmonise with their beliefs. If their doctrine harmonises with the Word of God then they are happy to accept the Bible. Its no coincidence when we discover the truth from God's word that we'd never heard before. God made it so through the Holy Spirit. What we do after we discover a new truth is up to us. We are supposed to pray to God to give us understanding, study His word and if we find out its the truth, accept it and tell others of this new truth. It is better not to know the truth than to reject it after knowing.

Yes, Jesus had to go back to heaven to start advocating for us. When we accepted Jesus our sins were forgiven, and we stood before God pardoned and clean. But even after we become Christians, we still sin at times, despite all the wonderful promises of victory. In such cases, Jesus intercedes as our High Priest in heaven. He represents the repenting sinner, pleading His own merits in our behalf before the Father.

“Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:25).

I will post later about the judgment part of the heavenly sanctuary and you're right, it is an interesting and wide subject. I know when I found out about the heavenly sanctuary I was shocked and could not believe how much Jesus loves us. He is our Saviour, Judge, Lawyer, etc. He covered all bases so we wouldn't fail.

 

[phipps]

Heavenly Sanctuary Needs Cleansing


Now we are confronted with one of the most amazing things about Christ’s heavenly priesthood. We are told why He would take His blood into the presence of God for us. “It was necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these: but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 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 9:22-24.

Here we are assured that just as the earthly sanctuary needed cleansing, so the heavenly also needed cleansing or purifying. Paul makes the astounding statement that “it was ... necessary” for the patterns in the heavens to be cleansed. This explanation of Christ ministering His own blood to cleanse the heavenly sanctuary can be understood only as we know how the sanctuary became defiled in the first place. It seems very strange indeed that there could be any defiling factor in the sinless atmosphere of heaven. But the words are there and we cannot ignore them. Something needed to be cleansed in heaven, and the blood of Jesus accomplished it as He ministered in the most holy place. We know it was done in the second apartment because of the next verse, “Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world; but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.” Hebrews 9:25-26.

These words declare that Christ is now fulfilling the ancient shadow that occurred every year on the Day of Atonement in Israel. That was the solemn ceremony called “the cleansing of the sanctuary.” It constituted one of the most important ministries ever carried out in the tabernacle. As Paul indicates in Hebrews, it had to be done each year by the high priest. It was the only day of the year that anyone could go through that veil separating the holy place from the most holy, and only one man could do it—the high priest. Paul declared that Jesus would not need to go through that veil every year like His earthly counterpart. But He would do it only “once in the end of the world.” He would not need the blood of animals, but His own blood, to accomplish the necessary cleansing.

 

[phipps]

What Caused Defilement?

In order to understand how the earthly and the heavenly sanctuaries became defiled, we must go back to the significant events that led up to the Day of Atonement.

After Moses returned from the mountain where he had been shown the pattern of the holy places in heaven, he called together all the skilled artisans of Israel to build the wilderness tabernacle according to the divine blueprint. It consisted of two apartments separated by a heavy veil, approximating fifteen by forty-five feet in size. The sanctuary was surrounded by a courtyard in which the altar of burnt offering and layer were located.

In the first apartment, or holy place, was the table of shewbread, the golden candlesticks, and the altar of incense. Behind the veil was a second apartment called the most holy place, which contained only one article of furniture, the Ark of the Covenant. On either end of the ark was a covering cherub carved out of gold, sheltering the mercy seat in the middle, which represented the very presence of God.

As the lightweight, portable tabernacle was carried through the wilderness and erected at their places of sojourn, the children of Israel would bring prescribed offerings to obtain forgiveness for their sins. Daily the transgressors would come into the courtyard, place a flawless lamb on the altar, confess their sins over it, and slay the animal with their own hand. Then, depending on the class of sinner, the priest would either sprinkle the blood in the holy place, or eat a small piece of the flesh. In either case, the priest became the sin-bearer for the people, and eventually the sin was transferred through the priest into the sanctuary where a record of the sin was made through the sprinkled blood.

The symbolism, of course, is obvious. The lamb represented Jesus. Sin meant death, and the confessed sins of the people were transferred to the innocent lamb. Then, through the blood, their sins were transferred into the tabernacle.

Because the record of sin accumulated in the sanctuary, God commanded Israel to observe a special, solemn service once a year called the Day of Atonement. At that time, the sanctuary was to be cleansed of its defilement. It was the time when final atonement was made for the sins that had been confessed day after day during the year. In truth, it was looked upon as the Day of Judgment, and even modern Jews consider Yom Kippur as the most important day of the year. If confession had not been made by the end of that day, a person was cut off from Israel and left without hope.

No wonder, then, that the people prayed and fasted as that Day of Judgment approached every seventh month of the year. While they waited with sincere heart-searching, the high priest cast lots on two goats in the outer court. After taking a censer of fire and incense through the veil into the most holy place, he returned to take the blood of a bullock for his own sins and sprinkled it seven times before the mercy seat (Leviticus 16:14). Then he killed the goat upon which the lot fell (the Lord’s goat) and sprinkled its blood in the most holy place before the mercy seat. This made atonement for the sanctuary that had been defiled, as well as for the people who had confessed their sins.

After sprinkling the blood on all the places where the day-to-day sin-laden blood had been applied, the high priest emerged from the sanctuary and put his hands on the head of the second goat, the scapegoat. Then that goat was led off into the wilderness to perish alone (Leviticus 16:20-22).

What was accomplished by this dramatic ritual service? The record states, “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 16:30. It is important to understand that there was a sanctifying, cleansing work done for the people as well as a blotting out of the record of their transgressions.

The symbolisms are all quite self-evident except the scapegoat. What does it represent? Please keep in mind that this ceremony depicted the final disposition of all sin that had been committed during the year. Those who confessed by bringing a lamb were now clean.

Those who had not come by the end of the day had to bear their own sins and were cut off from Israel. The scapegoat could not represent Jesus, because there is no shedding of blood on its part. Who else would have to bear any responsibility for the sins of all the people? Only one. Satan, the great originator of all sin, would finally have rolled back upon him his share of guilt in every sin he had instigated.

This is what is represented by the scapegoat. He had no part whatsoever in the atonement. The Scriptures plainly say that the high priest had made an end of reconciling the people. Atonement had been completed and all the confessed guilt of the people had been blotted out. This punishment of Satan for all the sins in which he had shared a primary responsibility was not a substitutionary or atoning punishment at all, except in the sense of a murderer atoning for his sins by being executed for them.

As the man led away the scapegoat to perish miserably in the wilderness, the final eradication of all sin from the universe was vividly depicted. With the death of the wicked, both root and branches, the terminal traces of sin’s awful consequences will be completely obliterated.

Thus, the Day of Atonement prefigured the disposition of sin from the universe. The ultimate lines of responsibility for all sin will be unerringly traced to the guilty parties, and someone must pay the penalty for each sin. The death of the lamb satisfies the penalty for all who have faith in the Saviour, but all others will have to bear the penalty in their own bodies. Each sinner who had not made Christ his sin-bearer will bear his own sins. Christ vicariously carried the sins of millions and died as a substitute for them, even though He never committed one sin. Satan will bear the sins of millions also, but he will die for those sins because he was personally guilty of causing them to be committed. So the two goats symbolized the only two ways for sin to be finally disposed of—atonement through the death of the substitute sin-bearer, or punishment through the death of the sinner.

Now we are better prepared to understand what Jesus is doing right now in the heavenly sanctuary. The book of Hebrews clearly teaches that Christ is ministering His blood for us in the most holy place. Paul declared that He did not need to go in every year, but only “once in the end of the world.” Obviously, then, the same mediatorial work had to be done in the sanctuary above as transpired in the earthly tabernacle on the Day of Atonement. This establishes beyond question that the heavenly sanctuary is being cleansed by the one-time entrance of Jesus into the most holy place. This agrees perfectly with Paul’s assertion that “it was ... necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified ... but ... with better sacrifices than these.” Hebrews 9:23.

We now have to answer the question as to why the heavenly sanctuary would need cleansing. In the earthly type, it was needed because of the record of sin through the sprinkled blood. That record of sin had to be removed.

Is there also a record of sin in the heavenly sanctuary? If so, how and where is that record maintained? According to the Bible, it is done by means of books. John wrote, “And the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” Revelation 20:12.

No one can deny that there is a record of sin in heaven. It is all written down in the books, and the work of judgment takes place out of those books of sin-records. Daniel describes the judgment scene in these words, “The judgment was set, and the books were opened.” Daniel 7:10.

 

[phipps]

Atonement Ministered Behind the Veil

The work of Christ in the sanctuary now begins to come into focus. The cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary is the blotting out of sin through the atoning merits of the blood which Jesus ministers in behalf of those who believe. You might ask, “How could this be? Wasn’t the atonement finished on the cross when Jesus died?” There is no question that Jesus completed the sacrifice which provided for a final atonement for every soul who would apply for cleansing and pardon. However, just as the slaying of the lamb in the courtyard did not cleanse the record of sin until it was sprinkled in the sanctuary, so the death of Jesus can effect no cleansing until it is applied to each individual life that seeks it through the High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary.

Ever since Jesus entered the most holy place through the veil, He has been engaged in the work of judgment, cleansing the record of sin by appealing His blood to the Father. The writer of Hebrews definitely ties the work of Jesus in the holy of holies to the judgment. He wrote, “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: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” Hebrews 9:24-27.

Here the apostle Paul connects the judgment with the work of Jesus in the most holy place. That cleansing was always considered the Day of Judgment, because it dealt with the “putting away” of sin and the final disposition of it—either through the sin-bearer priest or the cutting off of the unrepentant.

Then in the next verse Paul describes the end of the judgment and the coming of Christ to deliver those who would be accounted worthy of salvation. “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” Hebrews 9:28.

Some mighty truths are revealed in this verse. Christ had completed His work as sin-bearer and priest. He is now described as appearing “without sin.” This is not talking about His having a sinless nature—that has never been in question. But He is no longer bearing the sins of His people before the Father. He no longer administers His atonement for them in the heavenly sanctuary. He has finished with interceding. The work of the investigative judgment out of the books of heaven is ended. Now He returns without sin—no longer bearing people’s sins—to execute the judgment that has been determined out of the books.

John speaks of that moment in these words:

“He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Revelation 22:11-12.

When Christ lays aside His priestly garment and puts on His kingly robe, the probation of every person has been eternally settled and fixed. Every name has been accepted or rejected because of the books. A great decree goes forth from the throne declaring that all must remain as they are, and announcing the immediate return of Jesus to execute the judgments determined. “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:15.

Please note that the final determining factor will be the book of life. After the judgment takes place involving the book of life, some names will be found in it; others will not, because they have been blotted out in the judgment. “And another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:12, 15.

Daniel speaks of the same event in these words: “And at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.” Daniel 12:1-2.

Again, the sequence is exactly the same. A determination has been made out of the books, and execution of the judgment follows immediately. Only those names in the book of life that survived the searching scrutiny of the investigative judgment will be accounted worthy of eternal life.

In this brief treatment of the subject, there will be no opportunity to establish the beginning point of the cleansing work in the heavenly sanctuary. Suffice it to say here that there is one particular prophecy of Daniel that actually pinpoints the year of Christ’s entry into the most holy place to begin the final atonement work for us. Since it has already begun, and we are at this very moment living in the solemn time of that judgment, it seems more appropriate to spend the rest of our time thinking of how the priestly work of Christ can benefit us right now. It is interesting to note in passing that according to the earthly shadow, the time for our High Priest to be in the most holy place would be short compared to His ministry in the first apartment.

https://www.amazingfacts.org/media-library/book/e/16/t/blood-behind-the-veil#Christ-s-Blood-Makes-Perfect

 

[phipps]

These are mainly my own words. Probably not a lot of people are reading this but for those who are, I know some Christians here will have never heard about the heavenly sanctuary/temple before. One person here even accused me of posting heresy. This subject comes directly from the Bible. The author (Joe Crews) of the book I quoted explains why this subject is not taught in most of Christendom.

"Although the book of Hebrews has been greatly ignored by Christian scholars and laymen alike, it contains some of the most important, basic doctrines in the Bible. Spiritual subjects that are scarcely mentioned by other writers have been fully explained by the author of Hebrews.

Perhaps the reason for its general neglect is twofold. First, it leans very heavily upon Old Testament imagery and typology. Many modem Christians seem to feel that it doesn’t fit in with the tone of gospel freedom enunciated in Paul’s other epistles.

Secondly, the book may be shunned because it contains some very clear statements that seem to conflict with positions held by the majority of Protestant Christians. Three of those areas of controversy are woven throughout the book of Hebrews. Although at first glance they may seem to be quite unrelated to each other, these three subjects are very closely tied together. The nature of Christ’s humanity, the high priestly work of Jesus in the heavenly sanctuary, and the subject of perfection are interrelated themes of truth in the book of Hebrews."

Some will struggle to read and understand what I've posted here because its too much information to take on the first time. It took me years to understand Jesus' work in the heavenly sanctuary. I don't think I will ever fully understand what Jesus does in the heavenly sanctuary though. I continue to study and pray that God opens my eyes and ears to understand not only this subject but His whole Word. I think its a very important subject to understand, because it explains to us how Jesus advocates for us, how sin is dealt with, the judgement and the final eradication of sin. More importantly we understand Jesus better and how much He loves us that He gave everything to save us. Like I said before, he covered all the bases. He is our Saviour, our lawyer and Judge. If we seek Him earnestly and submit to Him, He will make sure we never fail.

I would suggest people study the earthly sanctuary first and understand how it worked, then read and study the first ten chapters of Hebrews to fully understand Jesus' work in the heavenly temple. Don't try and force yourself to understand quickly, take your time. Of course it goes without saying, before we study God's word, we should always pray and ask for God's help to understand His Word and compare scripture with scripture. God bless you as you study His precious Word.

 

[phipps]

The Nation of Israel and the Temple of God

In Galatians 3:16 we read that Christ is the seed of Abraham. Then, in verse 29, Paul refers to the Gentile converts, saying, "If you be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise." This was the promise given to Abraham and it now applies to all Jews and non-Jews who have, in Christ, joined God’s spiritual Israel.

The Heart not the Flesh

The New Testament is replete with warnings to those Jews who put their trust in their literal connection to the lineage of Abraham instead of realizing the spiritual significance of being God's people. Paul’s references to this are emphatic and cannot, without destroying the beauty of Scriptural symbolism, be misapplied or misunderstood. In Romans, Paul reveals the truth about Israel of the flesh and Israel of the promise. Consider some of these comparisons:

"Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel" (Romans 9:6)

"That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed" (Romans 9:8).

In Romans 2 Paul makes it unmistakably clear what he understands regarding the spiritual and fleshy implications of what being a Jew or Israelite is all about:

"Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God...For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision."

"Therefore if the uncircumcision (Gentiles) keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?"

"For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God" (Romans 2:17, 25-29).

Christ said to the Jews in His day, "Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham" (Matthew 3:8-9).

John reveals Christ’s attitude towards those who thought they were safe simply by virtue of their physical connection to Abraham:

"They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham...Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do" (John 8:39, 44).

Paul understood this in exactly the same way as Christ revealed it:

"Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham" (Galatians 3:7).

"For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh" (Philippians 3:3).

When Peter received his vision of the clean and unclean animals and was told to arise and eat, he was still of the opinion that salvation was for the Jews. But, after this revelation, Peter catches what Christ had revealed and declares, "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him" (Acts 10:34-35).

It was not enough for the Jew or, for that matter, anyone else, to rest in the external manifestations of Israel’s calling. The issue was, primarily, a matter of the heart. The Jews were to look forward to this in its fullest fulfillment in Christ and to allow it to work itself out in the practice of their lives. Christians, under the new covenant continue to live it as heart religion, while they too realize its ultimate fulfillment in the Messiah.

"Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah...For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts" (Hebrews 8:8, 10).

Nowhere in Scripture do we ever find God making a covenant with anyone but the Israelites, the Jews. In order to be saved, we must all become spiritual Jews.

The Christian faith was based upon the evidences found in a Jewish document:

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works" (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

The doctrines, teachings, and instructions in righteousness for the Christian faith are found in the Old Testament writings that defined the Jewish religion and pointed to the Messiah as the consummation of their hopes. If I am not faithful to the evidence of this Word and do not recognize or accept Christ, whether I am a Jew or Gentile, I am no better off than any other human being. Let us again consider the words of Paul:

"For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh" (Philippians 3:3).

In light of this evidence the theology that literalizes many of the New Testament references to the temple needs to be revisited too.

Does the temple need to be rebuilt?

A newly built temple cannot, in any sense of the word, be called "the temple of God." In fact, the erection of such a temple and the reintroduction of sacrificial rites would be blasphemy against the completed work and present priestly ministry of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary.

 

[Karlysymon]

These are mainly my own words. Probably not a lot of people are reading this but for those who are, I know some Christians here will have never heard about the heavenly sanctuary/temple before. One person here even accused me of posting heresy. This subject comes directly from the Bible. The author (Joe Crews) of the book I quoted explains why this subject is not taught in most of Christendom.

"Although the book of Hebrews has been greatly ignored by Christian scholars and laymen alike, it contains some of the most important, basic doctrines in the Bible. Spiritual subjects that are scarcely mentioned by other writers have been fully explained by the author of Hebrews.

Perhaps the reason for its general neglect is twofold. First, it leans very heavily upon Old Testament imagery and typology. Many modem Christians seem to feel that it doesn’t fit in with the tone of gospel freedom enunciated in Paul’s other epistles.

Secondly, the book may be shunned because it contains some very clear statements that seem to conflict with positions held by the majority of Protestant Christians. Three of those areas of controversy are woven throughout the book of Hebrews. Although at first glance they may seem to be quite unrelated to each other, these three subjects are very closely tied together. The nature of Christ’s humanity, the high priestly work of Jesus in the heavenly sanctuary, and the subject of perfection are interrelated themes of truth in the book of Hebrews."

Some will struggle to read and understand what I've posted here because its too much information to take on the first time. It took me years to understand Jesus' work in the heavenly sanctuary. I don't think I will ever fully understand what Jesus does in the heavenly sanctuary though. I continue to study and pray that God opens my eyes and ears to understand not only this subject but His whole Word. I think its a very important subject to understand, because it explains to us how Jesus advocates for us, how sin is dealt with, the judgement and the final eradication of sin. More importantly we understand Jesus better and how much He loves us that He gave everything to save us. Like I said before he covered all the bases. He is our Saviour, our lawyer and Judge. If we seek Him earnestly and submit to Him, He will make sure we never fail.

I would suggest people study the earthly sanctuary first and understand how it worked, then read and study the first ten chapters of Hebrews to fully understand Jesus' work in the heavenly temple. Don't try and force yourself to understand quickly, take your time. Of course it goes without saying, before we study God's word, we should always pray and ask for God's help to understand His Word and compare scripture with scripture. God bless you as you study His precious Word.

With my two cents, I’ll throw in another reason.

We are raised with the image of Christ more as the “Lamb of God” than as a Priest, obviously because of the cross and because its something that Christ often talked about more than His subsequent priesthood [John : Behold the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world]. The Lamb and Priest both typified Christ and because He fulfilled His role as the Lamb, there is less focus on His work/image as the High Priest. Even though the earthly system was abolished, and even though we may choose to ignore it or de-emphasize it, the fact is we all cannot stand before God without a mediator and no one except, a High Priest, can do that. If Moses was shown the priestly garb, it stands to reason that in heaven someone had to assume that office.

 

[phipps]

The Heavenly Sanctuary in Revelation

The existence of the heavenly sanctuary is confirmed in the book of Revelation where the word naos, generally translated “temple,” occurs 15 times. With the exception of two instances where the word naos (temple) may be used metaphorically to refer to the Christian community (Revelation 3:12; 21:22), in all the other instances the term refers to the heavenly sanctuary.

In Revelation 7:15, the heavenly temple is equated with the throne of God. Concerning the great multitude in white robes (Revelation 7:9), John says: “Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple. And He who sits on the throne will dwell among them.” (Revelation 7:15). This text clearly indicates that the throne of God is located in the heavenly temple, which is the dwelling place of God.

In Revelation 11:19, the opening of the temple reveals the ark of the covenant. “Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail.” Since the ark of the covenant was located in the Most Holy Place (Hebrews 9:3-4), it is evident that John saw the second apartment of the heavenly sanctuary. This does not necessary mean that the heavenly sanctuary consists of a bipartite structure with a Holy and Most Holy Place like the earthly sanctuary. After all, we have seen that the ark of the covenant typifies the throne of God which is established on mercy (mercy seat) and justice (Decalogue inside the ark). Presumably, what John saw was a presentation of the heavenly sanctuary through the typology of the earthly sanctuary.

In one place, Revelation clearly ties the heavenly temple-sanctuary to the earthly tabernacle-sanctuary: “After these things I looked, and behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened.” (Revelation 15:5). The phrase “the tabernacle of the testimony” is used in the Old Testament to designate the earthly sanctuary (Numbers 1:50), because it enshrined within its walls the tables of the Decalogue, known as “The Testimony.” Within the heavenly temple, John also observed the seven-branched lampstand (menorah) of the earthly sanctuary (Revelation 1:12-13; 4:5) and the golden altar before the throne (Revelation 8:3; 9:13).

http://www.anym.org/pdf/BP/BP_103_the_heavenly_sanctuary_real_or_symbolic.pdf

 

[phipps]

Christ Our High Priest

THE Saviour has many titles, for He “hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name” (Hebrews 1:4) than all the angelic host of heaven. Of the many titles bestowed upon Him, there is none more dear to humanity than the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29, 36) and “High Priest.” By virtue of these two offices He lifts poor fallen humanity up where they can share in His glorious kingdom of grace, even while in the midst of this sin-cursed earth.

In the typical service the one who realised he was in sinner must bring a lamb for a sin-offering. The priest could not officiate for him without this offering. (Leviticus 4:27-29) That entire service was but a great kindergarten lesson, making the way of salvation so simple that none could fail to comprehend it. When we realise that we have sinned, we remember our “Lamb,” confess our sins, and in His name they are forgiven; then He officiates as High Priest in our behalf before the Father. He pleads the merits of His blood, and covers our life, stained with sin, with the robe of His spotless righteousness, and we stand before the Father “accepted in the Beloved.” (Ephesians1:6) How can we fail to love Him who offered His life for us? Christ could say of His Father, “Therefore doth My Father love me, because I lay down My life.” (John 10:17) Even the infinite love of the Father for His Son was increased by that act.

In the type, the blood of the sin-offering was shed in the court, and then the priest entered the sanctuary with the blood to present it before the Lord (Hebrews 9:12). The Saviour gave His life a sacrifice for sin here upon the earth; and as He entered the heavenly sanctuary as High Priest, He is called the “Forerunner.” Under no circumstances, except as He enters “within the veil” of the heavenly sanctuary, is that name applied to the Saviour. (Hebrews 6:19)

In all monarchical forms of government the forerunner is a familiar character. In gorgeous uniform, with waving plumes, he rides before and announces the approach of the royal carriage. While he is always hailed with joy by the waiting crowds, yet he is not the centre of attraction; their eyes do not follow him as he passes on, but are turned down the road whence he came to get the first glimpse of the royal personage of whom he is the forerunner.

Of the many condescensions on the part of our blessed Master, this is one of the grandest. When He entered heaven a mighty Conqueror over death and the grave, before the entire heavenly host and representatives of other worlds, He entered a forerunner for us. He presented the “wave sheaf,” those brought forth from their graves at the time of His resurrection, as a sample of the race He had died to redeem, (Ephesians 4:8; Matt. 27:52) thus directing the attention of that wonderful assemblage down the road whence He came to watch -- for royalty? -- yes, for royalty made so by His precious blood. (Revelation 1:6; 5:10) It is only a company of poor, frail mortals stumbling along and often falling by the way; but when they reach the heavenly gate, they will enter “heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.” (Romans 8:17).

It meant much for us that Christ entered within the veil as our Forerunner, for all heaven is watching the church of God on earth. When tempted by the enemy to doubt God's love and care, remember that on account of the great sacrifice made, you are so dear to the Father that “he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of His eye.” (Zechariah 2:8) Heaven and earth are closely united since Christ entered within the veil as our Forerunner. The attention of every angel in glory is centred upon those striving to follow in Christ's footsteps. (1 Peter 2:21) “Are they (the angels) not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14) Why should we falter by the way, and disappoint the heavenly host who are watching for us to come over the same road that our Forerunner passed as a mighty Conqueror over death and the grave?

But let us never forget that it is a blood-stained pathway. “Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.” (1 Peter 2:23) We can not follow in His footsteps in our own strength. For that reason “in all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succour them that are tempted. Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus.” (Hebrews 2:17,18; 3:1)

In the earthly sanctuary not only the high priest but also common priests officiated, because it was impossible for one man to perform all the work; but it required the work performed by all the priests in the typical services to represent the work of our High Priest. The work of one year was taken as a type of the entire work of our High Priest. During the year “the priests (plural, both high and common) went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.” This continued all the year, except one day; on that day, the service changed and “into the second (apartment) went the high priest alone, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people.” (Hebrews 9:6,7) These priests served “unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.” (Hebrews 8:5)

When Christ entered heaven, He went as the Antitype of the earthly service God had ordained, and entered upon His work within the first veil of the heavenly sanctuary. When the typical work ordained by God in the first apartment of the earthly sanctuary had fully met its Antitype, He passed through the second veil (Hebrews 9:3) into the glorious apartment of the antitypical holy of holies. There He is to perform the marvellous service which will end in the blotting out and total destruction of the sins of the righteous, nevermore to be remembered by the redeemed host nor by God Himself.

When Christ stands upon the sea of glass, and places the glittering crowns upon the heads of the company who have travelled the road made sacred by the foot prints of their Forerunner, albeit with faltering step and through falling tears, and who are, clad in robes made white in the blood of the Lamb, He will see of the travail of His soul and be satisfied. (Isaiah 53:11) He will rejoice over them with singing, and all heaven will ring with melody as the angels who have served under their Commander in the work of saving souls, join in singing. “Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever.” (Revelation 5:13)

OUR HIGH PRIEST
Hebrews 7:25. “Is able to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by Him.”
Hebrews 4:15. “Is touched with the feeling of our infirmities.” “Was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
Hebrews 2:18. “For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succour them that are tempted.”
Hebrews 2:17. “He is a merciful and faithful High Priest.”
Hebrews 7:25. “He ever liveth to make intercession for us.”

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