Topical Encyclopedia The term "Sanctuary" as it relates to Jesus Christ is a profound title that encapsulates His role as the divine refuge and holy presence among His people. In the Old Testament, the sanctuary was the sacred space where God dwelt among the Israelites, first in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. This concept finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who embodies the presence of God with humanity.1. Sanctuary as the Presence of God: In the Gospel of John, Jesus is described as the Word who "became flesh and made His dwelling among us" (John 1:14). The Greek term for "dwelling" is "σκηνόω" (skenoo), which is akin to "tabernacling" or "pitching a tent," directly linking Jesus to the concept of the sanctuary where God's presence resided. 2. Sanctuary as a Place of Refuge: The sanctuary in the Old Testament was a place of refuge and safety for the Israelites. Jesus, as the living Sanctuary, offers spiritual refuge and salvation. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites, "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" . This invitation echoes the sanctuary's role as a place of rest and peace. 3. Sanctuary as the Holy of Holies: The Holy of Holies was the innermost part of the sanctuary, where God's presence was most intensely manifest. Hebrews 9:11-12 describes Christ as the High Priest who entered the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, to secure eternal redemption. Jesus, therefore, is the true Holy of Holies, the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity. 4. Sanctuary as the Mediator of the New Covenant: Jesus, as the Sanctuary, is also the mediator of the New Covenant. Hebrews 8:1-2 states, "We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who ministers in the sanctuary and true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by man" . This highlights His role in establishing a new and living way to approach God. 5. Sanctuary as the Fulfillment of Prophecy: The prophets foretold a time when God would dwell among His people in a new way. Ezekiel 37:26-27 speaks of God's everlasting covenant of peace and His sanctuary being among them forever. Jesus fulfills this prophecy as the eternal Sanctuary, ensuring God's presence with His people through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. 6. Sanctuary as the Source of Holiness: The sanctuary was a place of holiness, set apart for God's purposes. Jesus, as the Sanctuary, is the source of holiness for believers. 1 Corinthians 1:30 declares, "It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God: our righteousness, holiness, and redemption" . Through union with Christ, believers are sanctified and made holy. In summary, the title "Sanctuary" as applied to Jesus Christ encompasses His role as the divine presence, refuge, mediator, and source of holiness for His people. Through Him, the promises of God's dwelling among humanity are realized, offering believers a profound connection to the divine. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 8:14And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. Nave's Topical Index Library Hypocrisy The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources Questions about Jesus Christ (All) | GotQuestions.orgHow many prophecies did Jesus fulfill? | GotQuestions.org Is the rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar biblical? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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