The concept of "The Turning Point in the Sanctuary" is a pivotal theme in biblical theology, particularly within the context of the Old Testament and its foreshadowing of New Testament fulfillment. This turning point is often associated with the transition from the Old Covenant sacrificial system to the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the sanctuary, or tabernacle, served as the dwelling place of God among His people, Israel. It was the center of worship and the place where sacrifices were offered to atone for the sins of the people. The Book of Exodus provides detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle (Exodus 25-31), emphasizing its role as a holy place where God would meet with His people: "And let them make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them" (Exodus 25:8).

The Day of Atonement, described in Leviticus 16, was a significant event in the sanctuary service. It was the day when the high priest entered the Most Holy Place to make atonement for the sins of the nation. This annual ritual symbolized the cleansing of the sanctuary and the removal of sin from the community.

Prophetic Foreshadowing

The Old Testament sanctuary and its services were a shadow of things to come, pointing to a greater reality. The prophet Daniel speaks of a time when the sanctuary would be cleansed: "Then the sanctuary will be properly restored" (Daniel 8:14). This prophecy is often interpreted as a reference to the ultimate atonement and cleansing brought about by the Messiah.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament reveals Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of the sanctuary's symbolism and the turning point in God's redemptive plan. The Book of Hebrews elaborates on this transition, presenting Jesus as the great High Priest who entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all: "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" (Hebrews 9:11).

Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross is seen as the ultimate atonement for sin, rendering the Old Covenant sacrifices obsolete. Hebrews 9:12 states, "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" .

Theological Implications

The turning point in the sanctuary signifies the transition from the temporary and repetitive sacrifices of the Old Covenant to the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ. This shift underscores the sufficiency and finality of Jesus' atoning work, offering believers direct access to God through faith in Him. The tearing of the temple veil at the moment of Jesus' death (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes this new access and the end of the separation between God and humanity.

In summary, the turning point in the sanctuary represents the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, who serves as the ultimate High Priest and perfect sacrifice, bringing about the reconciliation of humanity with God.