Topical Encyclopedia The term "Sanctuary of God" is a profound title and name for the Church, reflecting its sacred role as the dwelling place of the Divine Presence. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where the sanctuary serves as a symbol of God's presence among His people.In the Old Testament, the sanctuary was initially represented by the Tabernacle, a portable dwelling place for God during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Exodus 25:8 states, "And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them." This sanctuary was a physical space where God’s presence was manifest, and it was central to the worship and religious life of Israel. The concept of the sanctuary evolved with the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, which became the permanent dwelling place of God’s presence. The Temple was considered holy, set apart for the worship of Yahweh, and it was the focal point of Jewish religious life. In the New Testament, the understanding of the sanctuary shifts from a physical structure to a spiritual reality. The Church, as the body of believers, is described as the new sanctuary of God. This is evident in passages such as 1 Corinthians 3:16 , where Paul writes, "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" Here, the Church is identified as the temple, the sanctuary where God’s Spirit resides. The imagery of the Church as the Sanctuary of God underscores its role as a holy and consecrated community. Ephesians 2:21-22 further elaborates on this, stating, "In Him the whole building is fitted together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together into a dwelling place for God in His Spirit." This passage highlights the collective nature of the Church as a sanctuary, emphasizing unity and spiritual growth. The title "Sanctuary of God" also conveys the idea of protection and refuge. Just as the Old Testament sanctuary provided a place of safety and divine presence, the Church is seen as a spiritual refuge for believers, offering solace and strength through its connection to God. Moreover, the Church as the Sanctuary of God carries a call to holiness and purity. As the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, the Church is called to reflect God’s holiness in its conduct and mission. This is a recurring theme in the New Testament, where believers are exhorted to live lives worthy of their calling as God’s sanctuary. In summary, the title "Sanctuary of God" for the Church encapsulates its identity as the dwelling place of God’s presence, a holy community set apart for worship, and a spiritual refuge for believers. Through this designation, the Church is called to embody the holiness, unity, and mission of God in the world. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 114:2Judah was his sanctuary, and Israel his dominion. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Psalm LXXXIII. Psalm XLII. The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles). Psalm LXXIII. Of the True Church. Duty of Cultivating Unity with Her, as the ... The Institution of Deacons, and the History of Stephen. The Letter of the Church of Rome Corinth Additional Evidences of Christianity, and Reflections on the Whole ... Hypocrisy Resources What are the names of Satan? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a spiritual father? | GotQuestions.org Is God male or female? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |