The Sanctuary in the Bible
Long ago, God had His people build a special tent called the sanctuary. Every part of it, from the altar near the entrance to the inner room where God’s presence rested, matched a step in how God rescues people: trusting in a sacrifice, being cleansed, staying connected to His word, praying, and finally living in His presence.
Go deeper
The Altar of Sacrifice Read The first step: trusting in Jesus' sacrifice for you. The Washing Basin Read The next step: being cleansed and starting fresh, pictured in baptism. The Table of Bread Read Staying fed on God's word, day by day. The Golden Lampstand Read Letting your life shine light to others. The Altar of Incense Read Prayer, and Jesus praying for you right now. The Ark of the Covenant Read God's throne and his law, at the very center.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the Old Testament sanctuary matter today?
It was a working model of something real happening in heaven, so understanding it helps us understand what Jesus is doing for us right now.
Bible references
Exodus 25:8Show verseHide verse
8Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.
Read it on Bible Gateway- Leviticus 16Read it on Bible Gateway
World English Bible (public domain)