In Old Testament times the Israelites worshipped God in a tabernacle, which pictured God's holiness and His separation from sinful mankind. Any priest who entered God's tabernacle first had to sacrifice an animal on the Brazen Altar to atone for sin. Next was the Laver in which the priest washed his hands and feet before he appeared before the Lord – once again a symbol of our need for cleansing from sin.
The tabernacle had three sections: the large area of service, the Holy Place, and the Holy of Holies.
The Holy of Holies was the place where God's presence resided. It was hidden from view by a curtain so heavy that it took four men to move it. Only the High Priest was allowed to enter this place – and only once a year – to offer sacrifices for his own sins and the sins of the people. If anyone else tried, God would strike him dead.
Why was the place of God's presence in the tabernacle hidden from view? Because God is so holy that no one can look upon His glory and live. No one can approach our holy God without a sacrifice of blood to atone for sin.
This was the reason for Jesus, the Lamb of God, and His sacrifice on the cross. The only thing that can satisfy the judgment of sin demanded by God's holiness is the shedding of pure, innocent blood. And only Jesus' blood met this high standard.
Your View of God Really Matters ...
Thank God that He has made you holy by the blood of Jesus. Resolve to follow Him today, allowing Him to make you holy.
Learn more about God’s character at Discover God, by Bright Media Foundation, an affiliate of Cru.
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