The concept of the earthly sanctuary as a type of the heavenly sanctuary is a profound theme woven throughout the Scriptures, illustrating the relationship between God's dwelling place on earth and His eternal abode in heaven. This typology is rooted in the Old Testament and finds its fulfillment and deeper understanding in the New Testament.

Old Testament Foundations

The earthly sanctuary, first established as the Tabernacle during the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites, was a divinely ordained structure. God provided Moses with detailed instructions for its construction, emphasizing its role as a sacred space where He would dwell among His people. In Exodus 25:8-9 , God commands, "Then have them make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. You must make it according to all that I show you—the pattern of the tabernacle as well as the pattern of all its furnishings."

The Tabernacle, and later the Temple in Jerusalem, served as the focal point of Israelite worship and the center of their religious life. It was here that the sacrificial system was carried out, symbolizing atonement and reconciliation with God. The Holy of Holies, the innermost part of the sanctuary, housed the Ark of the Covenant and represented the very presence of God.

Typology and Symbolism

The earthly sanctuary was a shadow and a copy of the heavenly realities. Hebrews 8:5 states, "They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: 'See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.'"

The various elements of the sanctuary, including the altar, the lampstand, and the veil, held symbolic significance pointing to greater spiritual truths. The sacrifices offered were types of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the world (John 1:29).

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the Epistle to the Hebrews provides a comprehensive exposition of the sanctuary typology. It presents Jesus Christ as the High Priest who ministers in the true heavenly sanctuary. Hebrews 9:11-12 declares, "But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that have come, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made by hands, that is, not of this creation. He did not enter by the blood of goats and calves, but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption."

The tearing of the temple veil at the moment of Christ's death (Matthew 27:51) signifies the opening of access to the heavenly sanctuary for all believers. Through His atoning work, Jesus has made it possible for humanity to approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16).

Heavenly Reality

The Book of Revelation provides glimpses of the heavenly sanctuary, where God is worshiped by angels and the redeemed. Revelation 21:3 proclaims, "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'"

The earthly sanctuary, with its rituals and sacrifices, serves as a type that points to the ultimate reality of God's presence with His people in the heavenly sanctuary. This typology underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan and the fulfillment of His promises through Jesus Christ, our eternal High Priest.Exodus 40:2,24
On the first day of the first month shall you set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.
Nave's Topical Index

Hebrews 8:2,5
A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.
Nave's Topical Index

Hebrews 9:1-12
Then truly the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary.
Nave's Topical Index

Pagan Shrines and Temples.
... seven hundred and eighty-five miscellaneous bronze statues ... vein contains fifty-two
varieties of types; to Bartoli's ... Nero restored the sanctuary; it was, however ...
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