SANCTUARY on EARTH and SANCTUARY in HEAVEN

The question, What is the SANCTUARY? is clearly answered in the SCRIPTURES. The term SANCTUARY, as used in the BIBLE, refers, first, to the TABERNACLE built by Moses, as a PATTERN of HEAVENLY THINGS; and, secondly, to the “TRUE TABERNACLE” in HEAVEN, to which the EARTHY SANCTUARY pointed. At the death of Christ the typical service ended. The “TRUE TABERNACLE” in HEAVEN is the SANCTUARY of the NEW COVENANT. And as the PROPHECY of Daniel 8:14 is fulfilled in this dispensation, the SANCTUARY to which it refers must be the SANCTUARY of the NEW COVENANT. At the termination of the 2300 days, in 1844, there had been no SANCTUARY on earth for many centuries. Thus the PROPHECY, “Unto two thousand three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED,” unquestionably points to the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN. {GC88 417.1} Also {GC 417.1} {FLB 202.2}

But the most important question remains to be answered: What is the CLEANSING of the SANCTUARY? That there was such a service in connection with the EARTHY SANCTUARY, is stated in the OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES. But can there be anything in HEAVEN to be CLEANSED? In Hebrews 9 the CLEANSING of both the EARTHLY and the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY is plainly taught. “Almost all things are by the Law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. It was therefore necessary that the PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS should be PURIFIED with these [the blood of animals]; but the HEAVENLY THINGS themselves with better sacrifices than these,” [Hebrews 9:22, 23.] even the precious blood of Christ. {GC88 417.2} Also {GC 417.2} {FLB 206.2}

I could say much regarding the SANCTUARY, the ARK containing the LAW of GOD, the COVER of the ARK, which is the MERCY-SEAT, the ANGELS at EITHER END of the ARK, and other things connected with the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and with the great DAY of ATONEMENT. I could say much regarding the MYSTERIES of HEAVEN, but my lips are closed. I have no inclination to try to describe them. {2MR 320.2}

In the MINISTRATION of the EARTHLY TABERNACLE, which served “unto the EXAMPLE and SHADOW of HEAVENLY THINGS,” the HOLY of HOLIES was opened ONLY upon the great DAY of ATONEMENT, the TYPICAL DAY of JUDGMENT, set apart for the CLEANSING of the SANCTUARY. Therefore the announcement, “The TEMPLE of GOD was opened in HEAVEN, and there was seen in His TEMPLE the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT,” points to the opening of the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, at the end of the twenty-three hundred days, – in 1844, – as Christ entered there to perform the closing work of the ATONEMENT. Those who by FAITH followed their GREAT HIGH PRIEST, as He entered upon His ministry in the MOST HOLY PLACE, beheld the ARK of the TESTAMENT. {RH, November 9, 1905 par. 10}

The VISION given to Isaiah represents the condition of God’s people in the last days. They are privileged to see by FAITH the work that is going forward in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. “And the TEMPLE of GOD was opened in HEAVEN, and there was seen in His TEMPLE the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT.” As they look by FAITH into the HOLY of HOLIES, and see the work of Christ in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, they perceive that they are a people of unclean lips, … {RH, December 22, 1896 par. 12} Also {CC 234.3}

The TEMPLE of GOD was opened in HEAVEN, and there was seen in His TEMPLE the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT.” Revelation 11:19. The ARK of GOD’S TESTAMENT is in the HOLY of HOLIES, the SECOND APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY. In the MINISTRATION of the EARTHLY TABERNACLE, which served “unto the EXAMPLE and SHADOW of HEAVENLY THINGS,” this APARTMENT was opened only upon the great DAY of ATONEMENT for the CLEANSING of the SANCTUARY. Therefore the announcement that the TEMPLE of GOD was opened in HEAVEN and the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT was seen points to the opening of the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY in 1844 as Christ entered there to perform the CLOSING WORK of the ATONEMENT. Those who by FAITH FOLLOWED their GREAT HIGH PRIEST as He entered upon His ministry in the MOST HOLY PLACE, beheld the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT. As they had studied the subject of the SANCTUARY they had come to understand the Saviour’s change of MINISTRATION, and they saw that He was NOW OFFICIATING before the ARK of GOD, pleading His blood in behalf of sinners. {GC88 433.1} Also {GC 433.1} Also {LHU 136.2}

But the ORIGINAL LAW of GOD is safely deposited in the ARK in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and WILL BE PRESENTED TO MAN just as God engraved it on the TABLES of STONE. To the king on His throne and the humblest of His subjects, the Law of righteousness will constitute the standard of character, and by its PRECEPTS will every work be tried and every thought be brought into examination. The FOURTH COMMANDMENT will be found in the BOSOM of the DECALOGUE just as it was written by the FINGER of GOD, and every soul who has presumed to exalt the false sabbath above the SABBATH which was sanctified and blessed and given to mankind for respect and observance, will be found out of harmony with the LAW of GOD. God gave the SABBATH to be a SIGN between Him and His people, that they might know that it was the Lord who was their Sanctifier. Those who have knowingly trampled upon the TRUE SABBATH, while they have exalted to its place a spurious institution, will have to answer for their action before the Lord who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is therein. God has proclaimed himself a jealous God. {ST, November 14, 1895 par. 7}

The SABBATH COMMANDMENT is placed in the very BOSOM of the DECALOGUE, amid the UNCHANGEABLE PRECEPTS of Jehovah. And yet from many pulpits of our land a contemptuous cry is raised against the SABBATH instituted by the Lord God of HEAVEN, and it is stigmatized as “the old Jewish SABBATH.” Let all who are seeking for truth remember that the SABBATH was instituted in Eden before there was a Jew in existence, and that the Saviour said, “The SABBATH was made for man.” The FOURTH COMMANDMENT was spoken with the other nine of God’s moral PRECEPTS, amid the thunders and grandeur of Mount Sinai, and in the HOLY of HOLIES in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY above, is the ARK of GOD. It is called the “ARK of the TESTAMENT,” and under its COVER, – the MERCY-SEAT, – are the TEN COMMANDMENTS that were written with the FINGER of GOD. {ST, January 8, 1894 par. 2}

But the Lord gave me a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The TEMPLE of GOD was open in HEAVEN, and I was shown the ARK of GOD covered with the MERCY-SEAT. TWO ANGELS stood one at EITHER END of the ARK, with their wings spread over the MERCY-SEAT, and their faces turned toward it. This my accompanying ANGEL informed me represented all the HEAVENLY host looking with reverential awe toward the LAW of GOD, which had been written by the FINGER of GOD. {CET 85.4}

Chosen men were especially endowed by God with skill and wisdom for the construction of the SACRED building. God Himself gave to Moses the plan of that structure, with particular directions as to its size and form, the materials to be employed, and every article of FURNITURE which it was to contain. The HOLY PLACES made with hands were to be “FIGURES of the TRUE,” “PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS” (Hebrews 9:24, 23) – a miniature representation of the HEAVENLY TEMPLE where Christ, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, after offering His life as a sacrifice, was to minister in the sinner’s behalf. God presented before Moses in the mount a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and commanded him to make all things according to the PATTERN shown him. All these directions were carefully recorded by Moses, who communicated them to the leaders of the people. {PP 343.2}

A most splendid SANCTUARY had been made, according to the PATTERN showed to Moses in the mount, and afterward presented by the Lord to David. The EARTHY SANCTUARY was made like the HEAVENLY. In addition to the CHERIBIM on the TOP of the ARK, Solomon made TWO OTHER ANGELS of larger size, standing at EACH END of the ARK, representing the HEAVENLY ANGELS always guarding the LAW of GOD. It is impossible to describe the beauty and splendor of this TABERNACLE. There, as in the TABERNACLE, the SACRED ARK was borne in solemn, reverential order, and set in its place beneath the wings of the two stately CHERIBIM that stood upon the floor. {4aSG 113.3} Also {SR 194.1} {1SP 413.2}

The TABERNACLE constructed by the Hebrews in the wilderness was made according to the divine command. Men called of God for this purpose were endowed by Him with more than natural abilities to perform the most ingenious work. Yet neither Moses nor these workmen were left to plan the form and workmanship of the building. God Himself devised and gave to Moses the PLAN of that SACRED STRUCTURE, with particular directions as to its SIZE and FORM, the MATERIALS to be used, and EVERY ARTICLE of FURNITURE which it was to contain. He presented before Moses a MINIATURE MODEL of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and commanded him to make all things according to the PATTERN showed him in the mount. And Moses wrote all the directions in a Book, and read them to the most influential of the people. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 1}

The TABERNACLE was made according to the COMMANDMENT of God. The Lord raised up men, and qualified them with more than natural abilities to perform the most ingenious work. Neither those workmen nor Moses were left to plan the form, and workmanship of the building. God himself devised the plan, and gave it to Moses, with particular directions as to its size and form, and the materials to be used, and specified every article of FURNITURE which was to be in it. He presented before Moses a miniature model of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and commanded him to make all things according to the PATTERN showed him in the mount. Moses wrote all the directions in a Book, and read them to the most influential of the people. {4aSG 5.1} Also {SR 151.1} {1SP 269.1}

The TABERNACLE was so constructed that it could be TAKEN APART and borne with the Israelites in all their journeyings. Yet it was a structure of extraordinary magnificence. The walls consisted of upright boards heavily plated with purest gold. The SACRED BUILDING was composed of TWO APARTMENTS, separated by a rich and beautiful CURTAIN, or VEIL. A SIMILAR VEIL closed the ENTRANCE of the FIRST APARTMENT. These VEILS, with the CURTAIN which formed the ceiling of the TABERNACLE, were of a variety of colors, most beautifully arranged; while inwrought with threads of gold and silver were CHERIBIM, to represent the angelic host, who are connected with the work of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and who are MINISTERING ANGELS to the saints upon the earth. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 10} Also {SR 154.2} {PP 347.2}

The MINISTRATION of the EARTHY SANCTUARY consisted of TWO DIVISIONS: the priests ministered daily in the HOLY PLACE, while once a year the HIGH PRIEST performed a special WORK of ATONEMENT in the MOST HOLY, for the CLEANSING of the SANCTUARY. Day by day the repentant sinner brought his offering to the DOOR of the TABERNACLE, and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them to the innocent sacrifice. The animal was then slain, and the blood or the flesh was carried by the priest into the HOLY PLACE. Thus the sin was, in figure, transferred to the SANCTUARY. Such was the work that went forward throughout the year. The continual transfer of sins to the SANCTUARY, rendered a further work of MINISTRATION necessary in order for their removal. On the tenth day of the seventh month the HIGH PRIEST entered the INNER APARTMENT, or MOST HOLY PLACE, which he was forbidden, on pain of death, to enter at any other time. The CLEANSING of the SANCTUARY then performed completed the yearly round of service. {4SP 263.1} Also {GC88 418.1} {GC 418.1}

The HEIFER having been slain, the priest, clothed in pure white garments, took the blood in his hands as it issued from the body of the victim, and cast it toward the TEMPLE seven times. Thus Christ in His own spotless righteousness, after shedding His precious blood, ENTERED INTO the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to minister in the sinner’s behalf. And there the crimson current is brought into the service of reconciling God to man. “And having a HIGH PRIEST over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.” {RH, January 9, 1883 par. 6}

As anciently the sins of the people were by FAITH placed upon the sin offering and through its blood transferred, in figure, to the EARTHY SANCTUARY, so in the NEW COVENANT the sins of the repentant are by FAITH placed upon Christ and transferred, in fact, to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. [The sins of the people were anciently transferred, in figure, to the EARTHY SANCTUARY by the blood of the sin-offering, so our sins are, in fact, transferred to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY by the blood of Christ.] And as the TYPICAL CLEANSING of the EARTHLY was accomplished by the removal of the sins by which it had been polluted, so the ACTUAL CLEANSING of the HEAVENLY is to be accomplished by the removal, or blotting out, of the sins which are there recorded. But before this can be accomplished, there must be an EXAMINATION of the Books of RECORD to determine who, through repentance of sin and FAITH in Christ, are entitled to the benefits of His ATONEMENT. The CLEANSING of the SANCTUARY therefore involves a WORK of INVESTIGATION – a WORK of JUDGMENT. This work must be performed PRIOR to the coming of Christ to redeem His people; for when He comes, His reward is with Him to give to every man according to his works. Revelation 22:12. {GC88 421.3} Also {GC 421.3} {4SP 266.1} {SR 378.2} {FLB 206.6}

The sacrifices and offerings of the Mosaic ritual were ever pointing toward a better service, even a HEAVENLY. The EARTHY SANCTUARY was “a figure for the time then present,” in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices; its TWO HOLY PLACES were “PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS;” for Christ, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, is today “a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the TRUE TABERNACLE, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2.—PK 684, 685. {Hvn 20.1} Also {LHU 26.3}

Such was the service performed “unto the EXAMPLE and SHADOW of HEAVENLY THINGS.” And what was done in type in the MINISTRATION of the EARTHY SANCTUARY, is done in reality in the MINISTRATION of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. … {GC88 420.2} Also {GC 420.2}

After His ASCENSION, our Saviour was to begin His work as our HIGH PRIEST. Says Paul, “Christ is not entered into the HOLY PLACES made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into HEAVEN itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” Hebrews 9:24. As CHRIST’S MINISTRATION was to consist of TWO GREAT DIVISIONS, each occupying a PERIOD OF TIME and having a DISTINCTIVE PLACE in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, so the TYPICAL MINISTRATION consisted of TWO DIVISIONS, the DAILY and the YEARLY SERVICE, and to each a DEPARTMENT of the TABERNACLE was devoted. {PP 357.3} Also {CCh 347.6}

As has been stated, the EARTHY SANCTUARY was built by Moses according to the PATTERN shown him in the mount. It was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” its TWO HOLY PLACES were “PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS;” Christ, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, is “a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the TRUE TABERNACLE, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2. As in VISION the apostle John was granted a view of the TEMPLE of GOD in HEAVEN, he beheld there “SEVEN LAMPS of fire burning before the throne.” He saw an ANGEL “having a golden CENSER; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.” Revelation 4:5; 8:3. Here the prophet was permitted to behold the FIRST APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN; and he saw there the “SEVEN LAMPS of fire” and the “golden altar” represented by the GOLDEN CANDLESTICK and the ALTAR of INCENSE in the SANCTUARY on earth. Again, “the TEMPLE of GOD was opened” (Revelation 11:19), and he looked within the INNER VEIL, upon the HOLY of HOLIES. Here he beheld “the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT” (Revelation 11:19), represented by the SACRED CHEST constructed by Moses to contain the LAW of GOD. {PP 356.1} Also {CCh 347.2} {FLB 198.5}

The COVER of this SACRED CHEST was called the MERCY-SEAT. This was a costly and magnificent piece of workmanship. It was beaten out of one solid piece of gold, and TWO CHERIBIM were made, one standing on each end, beaten out of the same piece of gold. Their faces were turned toward each other, and were looking reverently downward toward the MERCY-SEAT, which represents all the HEAVENLY ANGELS looking with interest and reverence to the LAW of GOD deposited in the ARK in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. One wing of each ANGEL was stretched forth on high, while the other covered their forms. The ARK of the EARTHY SANCTUARY was the PATTERN of the true ARK in HEAVEN. There, beside the HEAVENLY ARK, stand LIVING ANGELS, each with one wing overshadowing the MERCY-SEAT, and stretching forth on high, while the other wings are folded over their forms in token of reverence and humility. {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 12}

Moses made the EARTHY SANCTUARY, “according to the fashion that he had seen.” Paul declares that “the TABERNACLE, and all the vessels of the ministry,” when completed, were “the PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS.” Acts 7:44; Hebrews 9:21, 23. And John says that he saw the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN. That SANCTUARY, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the GREAT ORIGINAL, of which the SANCTUARY built by Moses was a COPY. {PP 357.1} Also {FLB 202.4}

In HOLY VISION John was taken into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. He says: “The TEMPLE of GOD was opened in HEAVEN, and there was seen in His TEMPLE the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT.” “And after that I looked, and, behold, the TEMPLE of the TABERNACLE of the testimony in HEAVEN was opened.” The SANCTUARY that Moses was commanded to make was to be after the PATTERN of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. In the ARK were placed the TEN COMMANDMENTS which had been written by the FINGER of GOD. The Law that was placed in the ARK on earth was a COPY of the Law that is contained in the ARK of the TESTAMENT in HEAVEN, and the PRECEPTS of Jehovah are immutable. The TEN COMMANDMENTS constitute the moral standard of character. God requires on the part of man perfect conformity to HIS LAW, and a curse is pronounced against everyone who continues not in all things written in the Law to do them. {ST, June 11, 1894 par. 10}

John writes concerning scenes that have to do with our own time. He says, “The TEMPLE of GOD was opened in HEAVEN, and there was seen in His TEMPLE the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT.” That ARK contains the TABLES whereon is engraven the LAW of GOD. On the Isle of Patmos, John beheld in PROPHETIC VISION the people of God, and saw that at this time the attention of the loyal and true followers of Christ would be attracted to the open DOOR of the MOST HOLY PLACE in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. He saw that by FAITH they would follow Jesus within the VEIL where He ministers above the ARK of GOD containing His immutable Law. The prophet described the faithful ones, saying, “Here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS of GOD, and the FAITH of JESUS.” This is the class that excite the wrath of the dragon because they obey God, and are loyal to HIS COMMANDMENTS. {ST, April 22, 1889 par. 9}

After the building of the TABERNACLE was completed, Moses examined all the work, and compared it with the PATTERN, and directions he had received of God, and he saw that every part of it agreed with the PATTERN, and he blessed the people. God gave a PATTERN of the ARK to Moses with special directions how to make it. The ARK was made to contain the TABLES of STONE, on which God engraved, with HIS OWN FINGER, the TEN COMMANDMENTS. It was in form like a CHEST, and was overlaid and inlaid with pure gold. It was ornamented with crowns of gold round about the top. The COVER of this SACRED CHEST was the MERCY-SEAT made of solid gold. On each end of the MERCY-SEAT was fixed a CHERIB of pure solid gold. Their faces were turned toward each other, and were looking reverentially downward toward the MERCY-SEAT, which represents all the HEAVENLY ANGELS looking with interest and reverence to the LAW of GOD deposited in the ARK in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. These CHERIBS had wings. One wing of each ANGEL was stretched forth on high, while the other wing of each ANGEL covered their forms. The ARK of the EARTHY SANCTUARY was the PATTERN of the TRUE ARK in HEAVEN. There, beside the HEAVENLY ARK, stand LIVING ANGELS, at EITHER END of the ARK, with each, one wing overshadowing the MERCY-SEAT, and stretching forth on high, while the other wings are folded over their forms in token of reverence and humility. {4aSG 7.2} Also {1SP 272.1} {1BC 1107.6} {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 12} {1SP 272} {TA 100.3} {TA 250.2} {1SM 272.1} {SR 153.3}

In patriarchal times the sacrificial offerings connected with divine worship constituted a perpetual reminder of the coming of a Saviour, and thus it was with the entire ritual of the SANCTUARY SERVICES throughout Israel’s history. In the MINISTRATION of the TABERNACLE, and of the TEMPLE that afterward took its place, the people were taught each day, by means of TYPES and SHADOWS, the great truths relative to the Advent of Christ as Redeemer, Priest, and King; and once each year their minds were carried forward to the closing events of the great controversy between Christ and Satan, the final PURIFICATION of the universe from sin and sinners. The sacrifices and offerings of the Mosaic ritual were ever pointing toward a better service, even a HEAVENLY. The EARTHY SANCTUARY was “a figure for the time then present,” in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices; its TWO HOLY PLACES were “PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS;” for Christ, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, is today “a MINISTER of the SANCTUARY, and of the TRUE TABERNACLE, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2. {PK 684.3}

The matchless splendor of the EARTHLY TABERNACLE reflected to HUMAN VISION the glories of that HEAVENLY TEMPLE where Christ our forerunner ministers for us before the throne of God. The abiding place of the King of kings, where thousand thousands minister unto Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stand before Him (Daniel 7:10); that TEMPLE, filled with the GLORY of the ETERNAL THRONE, where seraphim, its shining guardians, veil their faces in adoration, could find, in the most magnificent structure ever reared by human hands, but a faint reflection of its vastness and glory. Yet important truths concerning the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and the great work there carried forward for man’s redemption were taught by the EARTHY SANCTUARY and its SERVICES. {GC 414.2}

Like the EARTHY SANCTUARY built by Moses according to the PATTERN shown him in the mount, SOLOMON’S TEMPLE, with all its services, was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” its TWO HOLY PLACES were “PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS;” Christ, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, is “a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the TRUE TABERNACLE, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” As in VISION the apostle John was granted a view of the TEMPLE of GOD in HEAVEN, he beheld there “SEVEN LAMPS of fire burning before the throne.” He saw an ANGEL “having a golden CENSER; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.” Here the prophet was permitted to behold the FIRST APARTMENT of the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN; and he saw there the “SEVEN LAMPS of fire” and the “golden altar,” represented by the GOLDEN CANDLESTICK and the ALTAR of INCENSE in the SANCTUARY on earth. Again, “the TEMPLE of GOD was opened,” and he looked within the inner VEIL, upon the HOLY of HOLIES. Here he beheld, “the ARK of HIS TESTAMENT,” represented by the SACRED CHEST constructed by Moses to contain the LAW of GOD. {RH, November 9, 1905 par. 9}

The religious services, the prayers, the praise, the penitent confession of sin ascend from true believers as incense to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, but passing through the corrupt channels of humanity, they are so defiled that unless PURIFIED by blood, they can never be of value with God. They ascend not in spotless purity, and unless the INTERCESSOR, who is at God’s right hand, presents and purifies all by His righteousness, it is not acceptable to God. All incense from EARTHLY TABERNACLES must be moist with the CLEANSING drops of the blood of Christ. He holds before the Father the CENSER of His own merits, in which there is no taint of EARTHLY corruption. He gathers into this CENSER the PRAYERS, the PRAISE, and the CONFESSIONS of His people, and with these He puts HIS OWN SPOTLESS RIGHTEOUSNESS. Then, PERFUMED with the merits of Christ’s propitiation, the INCENSE comes up before God wholly and entirely acceptable. Then gracious answers are returned. {1SM 344.2}

Then he [Moses] was carried down to the period of time when a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY should be given to God’s people; when the VEIL would be parted, and by FAITH they would enter within the HOLY of HOLIES. Moses knew something about the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN. He understood the SACRED MINISTRATIONS connected with the HOLY PLACE and the MOST HOLY. The significance of the typical service in the EARTHY SANCTUARY was made LIGHT and clear by the reflection of the Sun of Righteousness upon the types and symbols. {11MR 54.1} Also {Ms69-1912} {10MR 157.2}

In His Word, God has revealed saving truths. As a people we should be EARNEST STUDENTS of PROPHECY; we should not rest until we become intelligent in regard to the SUBJECT of the SANCTUARY, which is brought out in the VISIONS of Daniel and John. This subject sheds great LIGHT on our present position and work, and gives us unmistakable proof that God has led us in our past experience. It explains our disappointment in 1844, showing us that the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED was not the earth, as we had supposed, but that Christ then entered into the MOST HOLY APARTMENT of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and is there PERFORMING the CLOSING WORK of HIS PRIESTLY OFFICE, in fulfillment of the Words of the ANGEL to the prophet Daniel, ‘Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.’ Daniel 8:14. {LS 278.}

In like manner I saw that Jesus regarded with the deepest compassion the disappointed ones who had waited for His coming; and He sent His ANGELS to direct their minds that they MIGHT FOLLOW HIM where He was. He showed them that this earth is not the SANCTUARY, but that He must enter the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to make an ATONEMENT for His people and to RECEIVE the KINGDOM from HIS FATHER, and that He would then return to the earth and take them to dwell with Him forever. The disappointment of the first disciples well represents the disappointment of those who expected their Lord in 1844. {EW 244.2}

The Lord sent for the men to preach the message He should give them that Christ would appear the second time to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity in 1844. The time passed. The event anticipated did not take place. Yet the message of warning was of God, to TEST and PROVE the people of the world who heard the note of warning. The mistake was in the EVENT. They were not in error in preaching time. God hid from them the EVENT that was to take place. They thought Christ would come to this earth to purify the world by fire. They regarded the earth as the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED at the end of the 2300 days. After the passing of the time, LIGHT shone more clearly upon the PROPHECIES that the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED was in HEAVEN. Christ entered the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY upon the great ANTITYPICAL DAY of ATONEMENT to CLEANSE it from the sins of the people by virtue of His own blood. {Ms6-1876}

I have been shown that our disappointment in 1844 was not because of failure in the reckoning of PROPHETIC PERIODS, but in the EVENTS to take place. The earth was believed to be the SANCTUARY. But the SANCTUARY which was to be CLEANSED at the END of the PROPHETIC PERIODS was the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and not the earth as we all supposed. The Saviour did enter the MOST HOLY PLACE in 1844 to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY and the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT had commenced for the dead. I have been repeatedly urged to accept the different periods of time proclaimed for the Lord to come. {10MR 269.1}

I saw that as Jesus looked upon the disappointed ones with the deepest compassion, He sent His ANGELS to direct their minds that they might find Him, and follow Him where He was; that they might understand that the earth is not the SANCTUARY; that He must needs enter the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to CLEANSE it; to make a SPECIAL ATONEMENT for ISRAEL, and to RECEIVE the KINGDOM of HIS FATHER, and then return to earth and take them to dwell with Him forever. The disappointment of the disciples well represents the disappointment of those who expected their Lord in 1844. … {1SG 149.2}

I was shown the grievous disappointment of the people of God that they did not see Jesus at the expected time. They knew not why their Saviour did not come; for they could see no evidence that PROPHETIC TIME had not ended. Said the angel, “Has GOD’S WORD failed? Has God failed to fulfill His promises? No; He has fulfilled all that He promised. Jesus has risen up and SHUT the DOOR of the HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and has OPENED a DOOR into the MOST HOLY PLACE and entered in to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY. All who wait patiently shall understand the mystery. Man has erred; but there has been no failure on the part of God. All was accomplished that God promised; but man erroneously believed the earth to be the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED at the end of the PROPHETIC PERIODS. It is man’s expectation, not the promise of God, that has failed.” {EW 250.1}

I saw the COMMANDMENTS of GOD and SHUT DOOR could not be separated. I saw [that] the time for the COMMANDMENTS of GOD to shine out to His people was when the DOOR was OPENED in the INNER APARTMENT of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY in 1844. Then Jesus rose up and SHUT the DOOR in the OUTER APARTMENT and OPENED the DOOR in the INNER APARTMENT and passed into the MOST HOLY PLACE, and the FAITH of ISRAEL now reaches within the SECOND VEIL where Jesus now stands by the ARK. I saw that Jesus had SHUT the DOOR in the HOLY PLACE and no man can open it, and that He had OPENED the DOOR in the MOST HOLY PLACE and no man can shut it; and that since Jesus had OPENED the DOOR in the MOST HOLY PLACE the COMMANDMENTS have been SHINING OUT and God has been TESTING His people on the HOLY SABBATH. I saw that the TEST on the SABBATH could not come until the MEDIATION of Jesus was finished in the HOLY and He had passed within the SECOND VEIL; therefore Christians who died before the seventh month, 1844, and had not kept the TRUE SABBATH, rest in hope, for there was no condemnation until the TRUE LIGHT on the SABBATH came. {Lt5-1849}

Within the SECOND VEIL was placed the ARK of the TESTIMONY, and the beautiful and rich CURTAIN was drawn before the SACRED ARK. This CURTAIN did not reach to the top of the building. The glory of God, which was above the MERCY-SEAT, could be seen from BOTH APARTMENTS, but in a much less degree from the FIRST APARTMENT. Directly before the ARK, but separated by the CURTAIN, was the golden ALTAR of INCENSE. The fire upon this ALTAR was kindled by the Lord Himself, and was sacredly cherished by feeding it with HOLY INCENSE, which filled the SANCTUARY with its fragrant cloud, day and night. Its fragrance extended for miles around the TABERNACLE. When the priest offered the incense before the Lord, he looked to the MERCY-SEAT. Although he could not see it, he knew it was there, and as the incense arose like a cloud, the glory of the Lord descended upon the MERCY-SEAT, and filled the MOST HOLY PLACE, and was visible in the HOLY PLACE, and the glory often so filled BOTH APARTMENTS that the priest was unable to officiate, and was obliged to stand at the DOOR of the TABERNACLE. The priest in the HOLY PLACE, directing his prayer by FAITH to the MERCY-SEAT, which he could not see, represents the people of God directing their prayers to Christ before the MERCY-SEAT in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. They cannot behold their Mediator with the natural eye, but with the EYE of FAITH they see Christ before the MERCY-SEAT, and direct their prayers to Him, and with assurance claim the benefits of His mediation. {4aSG 8.3} Also {1SP 273.3} {ST, June 24, 1880 par. 13} {SR 155.1}

I was then bidden to take notice of the TWO APARTMENTS of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The CURTAIN, or DOOR, was OPENED, and I was permitted to enter. In the FIRST APARTMENT I saw the CANDLESTICK with SEVEN LAMPS, the TABLE of SHEWBREAD, the ALTAR of INCENSE, and the CENSER. All the FURNITURE of this APARTMENT looked like purest gold and reflected the image of the One who entered the place. The CURTAIN which separated the TWO APARTMENTS was of different colors and material, with a beautiful border, in which were figures wrought of gold to represent ANGELS. The VEIL was LIFTED, and I looked into the SECOND APARTMENT. I saw there an ARK which had the appearance of being of the finest gold. As a border around the TOP of the ARK, was most beautiful work representing CROWNS. In the ARK were TABLES of STONE containing the TEN COMMANDMENTS. {EW 251.3}

Now Christ is in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. And what is He doing? Making ATONEMENT for us, CLEANSING the SANCTUARY from the sins of the people. Then we must ENTER by FAITH into the SANCTUARY with Him, we must commence the WORK in the SANCTUARY of our SOULS. We are to CLEANSE ourselves from all defilement. We must “CLEANSE ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” Satan will come and tempt you and you will give way to his temptations. What then? Why, come and humble your hearts in confession, and by FAITH grasp the arm of Christ in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Believe that Christ will take your confession and hold up His hands before the Father – hands that have been bruised and wounded in our behalf – and He will make an ATONEMENT for all who will come with confession. What if you cannot understand about this matter? He says, “He that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins” (2 Peter 1:19). {1888 127.3}

The SANCTUARY in HEAVEN, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the GREAT ORIGINAL, of which the SANCTUARY built by Moses was a COPY. God placed His Spirit upon the builders of the EARTHY SANCTUARY. The artistic skill displayed in its construction was a manifestation of divine wisdom. The walls had the appearance of massive gold, reflecting in every direction the LIGHT of the SEVEN LAMPS of the GOLDEN CANDLESTICK. The TABLE of SHEWBREAD and the ALTAR of INCENSE glittered like burnished gold. The gorgeous CURTAIN which formed the ceiling, inwrought with figures of ANGELS in blue and purple and scarlet, added to the beauty of the scene. And beyond the SECOND VEIL was the HOLY SHEKINAH, the visible manifestation of God’s glory, before which none but the HIGH PRIEST could enter and live. The matchless splendor of the EARTHLY TABERNACLE reflected to HUMAN VISION the glories of that HEAVENLY TEMPLE where Christ our forerunner ministers for us before the throne of God. … {GC88 413.3} Also {4SP 260.2} {GC 414.1} {CCh 347.5}

He walks in the midst of the GOLDEN CANDLESTICKS. Thus is symbolized the relation of Christ to His churches, and the stars are used to represent His ministers. He is represented as walking up and down among the GOLDEN CANDLESTICKS. He is in communion with His people. He knows their true state. He observes their order, their vigilance, their piety, and their devotion; and He takes pleasure in them if He sees these fruits manifest. Although Christ is MEDIATOR in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, yet He walks up and down in the midst of the churches on earth. He goes about from church to church, from congregation to congregation, from SOUL to SOUL. He observes their true condition, – that which is neglected, that which is in disorder, and that which needs to be done. He is represented as walking, which signifies unrest, wakefulness, and unremitting vigilance. He is observing whether the LIGHT of any of His sentinels, or candlesticks, is burning dim or going out. These under-shepherds may sleep, but He that keeps Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps. If these candlesticks were left to the charge of human powers, the flickering flame would languish and die. But He is the TRUE WATCHMAN of the home, the SLEEPLESS WARDEN of the TEMPLE COURTS. The continual watch-care and presence and sustaining grace of Christ are the source of all LIGHT and LIFE. {RH, May 31, 1887 par. 5}

The HEAVENLY TEMPLE, the abiding place of the King of kings, where “thousand thousands ministered unto Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him” (Daniel 7:10), that TEMPLE filled with the glory of the eternal throne, where seraphim, its shining guardians, veil their faces in adoration – no EARTHLY structure could represent its vastness and its glory. Yet important truths concerning the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and the great work there carried forward for man’s redemption were to be taught by the EARTHY SANCTUARY and its services. {PP 357.2} Also {CCh 347.5}

I am instructed to say to those who endeavor to tear down the FOUNDATION that has made us Seventh-day Adventists: We are GOD’S COMMANDMENT-KEEPING PEOPLE. For the past fifty years {written in 1905} every phase of heresy has been brought to bear upon us, to becloud our minds regarding the teaching of the Word – ESPECIALLY concerning the MINISTRATION of CHRIST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and the MESSAGE of HEAVEN for these last days, as given by the ANGELS of the fourteenth chapter of Revelation. Messages of every order and kind have been urged upon Seventh-day Adventists, to take the place of the TRUTH which, point by point, has been sought out by PRAYERFUL STUDY and testified to by the MIRACLE-WORKING POWER of the Lord. But the waymarks which have made us what we are, are to be preserved, and they will be preserved, as God has signified through His Word and the Testimonies of His Spirit. He calls upon us to HOLD FIRMLY with the GRIP of FAITH, to the FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES that are based upon unquestionable authority. {4MR 246.1} Also {1SM 208.2} {SpTB02 59.1} {Ms44-1905}

After Jesus opened the DOOR of the MOST HOLY the LIGHT of the SABBATH was seen, and the people of God were to be TESTED and PROVED, as God proved the children of Israel anciently, to see if they would keep HIS LAW. I saw the THIRD ANGEL pointing upward, showing the disappointed ones the way to the HOLIEST of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. They FOLLOWED JESUS by FAITH into the MOST HOLY. Again they have found Jesus, and joy and hope spring up anew. I saw them looking back reviewing the past, from the proclamation of the SECOND ADVENT of Jesus, down through their travels to the passing of the time in 1844. They see their disappointment explained, and joy and certainty again animate them. The THIRD ANGEL has lighted up the past, present and future, and they know that God has indeed led them by His mysterious providence. {1SG 163.1} Also {EW 254.2}

Many who embraced the THIRD MESSAGE had not an experience in the TWO FORMER MESSAGES. Satan understood this, and his evil eye was upon them to overthrow them; but the THIRD ANGEL was pointing them to the MOST HOLY PLACE, and those who had an experience in the past messages were pointing them the way to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Many saw the perfect chain of truth in the ANGELS’ MESSAGES, and gladly received it. They embraced them in their order, and FOLLOWED JESUS by FAITH into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. These messages were represented to me as an anchor to hold the body. And as individuals receive and understand them, they are shielded against the many delusions of Satan. {1SG 165.2} Also {EW 256.2}

I was also shown a SANCTUARY upon the EARTH containing TWO APARTMENTS. It RESEMBLED the one in HEAVEN, and I was told that it was a FIGURE of the HEAVENLY. The FURNITURE of the FIRST APARTMENT of the EARTHY SANCTUARY was like that in the FIRST APARTMENT of the HEAVENLY. The VEIL was lifted, and I looked into the HOLY of HOLIES and saw that the FURNITURE was the same as in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The priest ministered in BOTH APARTMENTS of the EARTHLY. He went daily into the FIRST APARTMENT, but entered the MOST HOLY only once a year, to CLEANSE it from the sins which had been conveyed there. I saw that Jesus ministered in BOTH APARTMENTS of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The priests entered into the EARTHLY with the blood of an animal as an offering for sin. Christ entered into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY by the offering of His own blood. The EARTHLY PRIESTS were removed by death; therefore they could not continue long; but Jesus was a PRIEST FOREVER. Through the sacrifices and offerings brought to the EARTHY SANCTUARY, the children of Israel were to lay hold of the merits of a Saviour to come. And in the wisdom of God the particulars of this work were given us that we might, by looking to them, understand the work of Jesus in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {EW 252.2} Also {1SG 160.1}

All the FURNITURE of the TABERNACLE was made of solid gold, or plated with gold. The CURTAINS of the TABERNACLE were of a variety of colors, most beautifully arranged, and in these CURTAINS were wrought, with threads of gold and silver, CHERIBIMS, which were to represent the angelic host, who are connected with the work of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and who are MINISTERING ANGELS to the saints upon the earth. {4aSG 8.2} Also {1SP 273.2}

As Jesus died on Calvary, He cried, “It is finished,” and the VEIL of the TEMPLE was rent in twain, from the TOP to the bottom. This was to show that the services of the EARTHY SANCTUARY were forever finished, and that God would no more meet with the priests in their EARTHLY TEMPLE, to accept their sacrifices. The blood of Jesus was then shed, which was to be offered by Himself in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. As the priest entered the MOST HOLY once a year to CLEANSE the EARTHY SANCTUARY, so Jesus entered the MOST HOLY of the HEAVENLY, at the end of the 2300 days of Daniel 8, in 1844, to make a FINAL ATONEMENT for all who could be benefited by His mediation, and thus to CLEANSE the SANCTUARY. {EW 253.1} Also {1SG 161.1}

When the loud cry, “It is finished,” came from the lips of Christ, the PRIESTS WERE OFFICIATING in the TEMPLE. It was the HOUR of the EVENING SACRIFICE. The LAMB representing Christ had been brought to be slain. Clothed in his significant and beautiful dress, the priest stood with LIFTED KNIFE, as did Abraham when he was about to slay his son. With intense interest the people were looking on. But the EARTH TREMBLES and QUAKES; for the LORD HIMSELF DRAWS NEAR. With a rending noise the INNER VEIL of the TEMPLE is torn from TOP to bottom by an unseen hand, throwing open to the gaze of the multitude a place once filled with the presence of God. In this place the SHEKINAH had dwelt. Here God had manifested His glory above the MERCY-SEAT. No one but the HIGH PRIEST ever lifted the VEIL separating this APARTMENT from the rest of the TEMPLE. He entered in once a year to make an ATONEMENT for the sins of the people. But lo, this VEIL is rent in twain. The MOST HOLY PLACE of the EARTHY SANCTUARY is NO LONGER SACRED. {DA 756.5} Also {LHU 44.3}

All is terror and confusion. THE PRIEST is ABOUT to SLAY the VICTIM; but the KNIFE DROPS FROM HIS NERVELESS HAND, and THE LAMB ESCAPES. TYPE HAS MET ANTITYPE IN THE DEATH OF GOD’S SON. The great sacrifice has been made. The way into the holiest is laid open. A new and living way is prepared for all. No longer need sinful, sorrowing humanity await the coming of the high priest. Henceforth the Saviour was to officiate as priest and advocate in the heaven of heavens. It was as if a living voice had spoken to the worshipers: There is now an end to all sacrifices and offerings for sin. The Son of God is come according to His word, “Lo, I come (in the volume of the Book it is written of Me,) to do Thy will, O God.” “By His own blood” He entereth “in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.” Hebrews 10:7; 9:12. {1898 DA 757.1}

The rending of the VEIL of the TEMPLE showed that the Jewish sacrifices and ordinances would no longer be received. The great Sacrifice had been offered and had been accepted, and the HOLY SPIRIT which descended on the Day of Pentecost carried the minds of the disciples from the EARTHY SANCTUARY to the HEAVENLY, where Jesus had entered by His own blood, to shed upon His disciples the benefits of His ATONEMENT. But the Jews were left in total darkness. They lost all the LIGHT which they might have had upon the plan of salvation, and still trusted in their useless sacrifices and offerings. The HEAVENLY SANCTUARY had taken the place of the EARTHLY, yet they had no knowledge of the change. Therefore they could not be benefited by the the mediation of Christ in the HOLY PLACE. {SR 386.2}

Matthew Ch 27 v 51 (Hebrews 6:19; 8:6, 7; Hebrews 10:19, 20.) GOD’S PRESENCE WITHDRAWN FROM EARTHLY SANCTUARY. – By the rending of the VEIL of the TEMPLE, God said, I can no longer reveal My presence in the MOST HOLY PLACE. A new and living Way, before which there hangs no VEIL, is offered to all. No longer need sinful, sorrowing humanity await the coming of the HIGH PRIEST. {5BC 1109.4}

At the time of the death of Christ, some of the priests were ministering in the TEMPLE at Jerusalem. They felt the shock of the EARTHQUAKE, and at the same moment the VEIL of the TEMPLE, which separated the HOLY from the MOST HOLY PLACE was rent in twain from TOP to bottom by the same bloodless hand that wrote the words of doom upon the walls of Belshazzar’s palace. The MOST HOLY PLACE of the EARTHY SANCTUARY was NO LONGER SACRED. Never would the presence of God again overshadow that MERCY-SEAT. Never would the acceptance or displeasure of God be manifested by the LIGHT or SHADOW in the PRECIOUS STONES in the BREASTPLATE of the HIGH PRIEST. {SJ 147.1}

In the service of the EARTHY SANCTUARY, which, as we have seen, is a figure of the service in the HEAVENLY, when the HIGH PRIEST on the DAY of ATONEMENT entered the MOST HOLY PLACE, the MINISTRATION in the FIRST APARTMENT ceased. God commanded, “There shall be no man in the TABERNACLE of the congregation when he goeth in to make an ATONEMENT in the HOLY PLACE, until he come out.” [Leviticus 16:17.] So when Christ entered the HOLY of HOLIES to perform the closing work of the ATONEMENT, He ceased His MINISTRATION in the FIRST APARTMENT. But when the MINISTRATION in the FIRST APARTMENT ended, the MINISTRATION in the SECOND APARTMENT began. When in the typical service the HIGH PRIEST left the HOLY on the DAY of ATONEMENT, he went in before God to present the blood of the sin-offering in behalf of all Israel who truly repented of their sins. So Christ had only completed one part of His work as our INTERCESSOR, to enter upon another portion of the work, and He still pleaded His blood before the Father in behalf of sinners. {GC88 428.3} Also {GC 428.3}

To obtain a further knowledge of the CLEANSING to which the PROPHECY points, it was necessary to understand the MINISTRATION of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. This could be learned only from the MINISTRATION of the EARTHY SANCTUARY; for Paul declares that the priests who officiated there served “unto the EXAMPLE and SHADOW of HEAVENLY THINGS.” Hebrews 8:5. {SR 378.1}

A few began to search the SCRIPTURES after the disappointment in 1844, and the result was LIGHT in regard to what constituted the SANCTUARY. This searching revealed the fact that the PROPHECY referred not to this earth as the SANCTUARY to be CLEANSED at the end of the days, but to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY; and this truth explained our disappointment in 1844. Investigation of the SCRIPTURES also revealed the light upon the SABBATH. {4MR 403.1}

Thus those who were studying the subject / seeking for the truth found indisputable proof of the existence of a SANCTUARY in HEAVEN. Moses made the EARTHY SANCTUARY after a PATTERN which was shown him. Paul declares that that PATTERN was the TRUE SANCTUARY which is in HEAVEN. And John testifies that he saw it in HEAVEN. {GC88 415.1} Also {GC 415.1} {4SP 261.2} {SR 377.2}

In their investigation they learned, that the EARTHY SANCTUARY, built by Moses at the command of God, according to the PATTERN shown him in the mount, was “a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices;” that its TWO HOLY PLACES were “PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS;” that Christ, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, is “a minister of the SANCTUARY, and of the TRUE TABERNACLE, which the Lord pitched, and not man;” that “Christ is not entered into the HOLY PLACES made with hands, which are the figures of the true, but into HEAVEN itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.” [Hebrews 9:9, 23; 8:2; 9:24.] {4SP 260.1} Also {SR 376.2}

He might bring the human soul to the THRESHOLD of HEAVEN, and through the OPEN DOOR show us its INNER GLORY flooding the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and shining out through its portals, but we must behold it by FAITH, not with the natural eyes. He does not forget that we are His human agents to work the works of God in a world all seared and marred with the curse. It is in this world, that is clothed with moral darkness like the pall of death, where darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people, that we are to walk in the LIGHT of HEAVEN. {Lt30-1893}

But clearer LIGHT came with the investigation of the SANCTUARY question. Now was seen the application of those words of Christ in the Revelation, addressed to the church at this very time: “These things saith He that is Holy, He that is true, He that hath the key of David, He that openeth and no man shutteth, and shutteth and no man openeth; I know thy works; behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” [Revelation 3:7, 8.] Here an OPEN as well as a SHUT DOOR is brought to view. At the termination of the 2300 PROPHETIC DAYS in 1844, Christ changed His MINISTRATION from the HOLY to the MOST HOLY PLACE. When, in the MINISTRATION of the EARTHY SANCTUARY, the HIGH PRIEST on the DAY of ATONEMENT entered the MOST HOLY PLACE, the DOOR of the HOLY PLACE was CLOSED, and the DOOR of the MOST HOLY was OPENED. So, when Christ passed from the HOLY to the MOST HOLY of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, the DOOR, or MINISTRATION, of the former APARTMENT was CLOSED, and the DOOR, or MINISTRATION, of the latter was OPENED. Christ had ENDED ONE PART of His work as our INTERCESSOR, to enter upon ANOTHER PORTION of the work; and He still presented His blood before the Father in behalf of sinners. “Behold,” He declares, “I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” {4SP 268.3} Also {GC88 429.2} {GC 429.2}

In 1844 our GREAT HIGH PRIEST entered the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, to begin the work of the INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT. The cases of the RIGHTEOUS DEAD have been passing in review before God. When that work shall be completed, JUDGMENT is to be pronounced upon the LIVING. How precious, how important are these solemn moments! Each of us has a case pending in the COURT of HEAVEN. We are individually to be judged according to the deeds done in the body. In the TYPICAL SERVICE, when the WORK of ATONEMENT was performed by the HIGH PRIEST in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the EARTHY SANCTUARY, the people were required to afflict their SOULS before God, and confess their sins, that they might be atoned for and blotted out. Will any less be required of us in this ANTITYPICAL DAY of ATONEMENT, when Christ in the SANCTUARY above is pleading in behalf of His people, and the final, irrevocable decision is to be pronounced upon every case? {RH, March 22, 1887 par. 9} Also {1SM 125.1}

At the termination of the 2300 days, in 1844, NO SANCTUARY had existed on earth for many centuries; therefore the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN must be the one brought to view in the declaration, “Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the SANCTUARY be CLEANSED.” But how could a SANCTUARY in HEAVEN need CLEANSING? Turning again to the SCRIPTURES, the students of PROPHECY learned that the CLEANSING was not a removal of physical impurities, for it was to be accomplished with blood, and therefore must be a CLEANSING from sin. Thus says the apostle: “It was therefore necessary that the PATTERNS of THINGS in the HEAVENS should be PURIFIED with these [the blood of animals]; but the HEAVENLY things themselves with better sacrifices than these [even the precious blood of Christ].” [Hebrews 9:23.] To obtain a further knowledge of the CLEANSING to which the PROPHECY points, it was necessary to understand the MINISTRATION of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. This could be learned only from the MINISTRATION of the EARTHY SANCTUARY; for Paul declares that the priests who officiated there served “unto the EXAMPLE and SHADOW of HEAVENLY THINGS.” [Hebrews 8:5.] {4SP 262.1}

As the MINISTRATION of Jesus closed in the HOLY PLACE, and He passed into the HOLIEST, and stood before the ARK containing the LAW of GOD, He sent another MIGHTY ANGEL to earth with the THIRD MESSAGE. He placed a parchment in the angel’s hand, and as he descended to earth in majesty and power, he proclaimed a fearful warning, the most terrible threatening ever borne to man. This message was designed to put the children of God upon their guard, and show them the hour of temptation and anguish that was before them. Said the angel, They will be brought into close combat with the beast and his image. Their only hope of ETERNAL LIFE is to remain steadfast. Although their lives are at stake, yet they must HOLD FAST the TRUTH. The THIRD ANGEL closes his message with these words, Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the COMMANDMENTS of GOD, and the FAITH of JESUS. As he repeated these words he pointed to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The minds of all who embrace this message are directed to the MOST HOLY PLACE where Jesus stands before the ARK, making HIS FINAL INTERCESSION for all those for whom MERCY still lingers, and for those who have ignorantly broken the LAW of GOD. This ATONEMENT is made for the RIGHTEOUS DEAD as well as for the RIGHTEOUS LIVING. Jesus makes an ATONEMENT for those who died, not receiving the LIGHT upon GOD’S COMMANDMENTS, who sinned ignorantly. {1SG 162.1} Also {EW 254.1}

Those who by FAITH follow Jesus in the great work of the ATONEMENT, receive the benefits of His mediation in their behalf; but those who reject the LIGHT that brings to view this work of MINISTRATION, are not benefited thereby. The Jews who rejected the LIGHT given at Christ’s first Advent, and refused to believe in Him as the Saviour of the world, could not receive pardon through Him. When Jesus at His ASCENSION entered by His own blood into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY to shed upon His disciples the blessings of His mediation, the Jews were left in total darkness, to continue their useless sacrifices and offerings. The MINISTRATION of TYPES and SHADOWS had ceased. That DOOR by which men had formerly found access to God, was no longer open. The Jews had refused to seek Him in the only way whereby He could then be found, through the MINISTRATION in the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN. Therefore they found no communion with God. To them the DOOR was SHUT. They had no knowledge of Christ as the true sacrifice and the only mediator before God; hence they could not receive the benefits of His mediation. {4SP 269.1} Also {GC88 430.2} {GC 430.2}

Thus those who followed in the ADVANCING LIGHT of the PROPHETIC WORD saw that instead of coming to the earth at the termination of the 2300 days in 1844, Christ then ENTERED the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, into the presence of God, to perform the CLOSING WORK of ATONEMENT, preparatory to His coming. {4SP 266.2} Also {SR 378.3} {GC88 422.1} {GC 422.1}

God had committed to His people a work to be accomplished on earth. The THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE was to be given, the minds of believers were to be directed to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where Christ had entered to make ATONEMENT for His people. The SABBATH REFORM was to be carried forward. The breach in the LAW of GOD must be made up. The message must be proclaimed with a LOUD VOICE, that all the inhabitants of earth might receive the warning. The people of God must purify their SOULS through obedience to the truth, and be prepared to stand without fault before Him at His coming. {1SM 67.9} Also {Ms4-1883}

Elder Bates was keeping the SABBATH, and urged its importance. I did not feel its importance, and thought that Elder B. erred in dwelling upon the FOURTH COMMANDMENT more than upon the other nine. But the Lord gave me a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The TEMPLE of GOD was opened in HEAVEN, and I was shown the ARK of GOD covered with the MERCY-SEAT. TWO ANGELS stood one at EITHER END of the ARK, with their wings spread over the MERCY-SEAT, and their faces turned toward it. This my accompanying ANGEL informed me represented all the HEAVENLY host looking with reverential awe toward the LAW of GOD which had been written by the FINGER of GOD. Jesus raised the COVER of the ARK, and I beheld the TABLES of STONE on which the TEN COMMANDMENTS were written. I was amazed as I saw the FOURTH COMMANDMENT in the very center of the TEN PRECEPTS, with a SOFT HALO of LIGHT encircling it. Said the angel, ‘It is the ONLY ONE of the TEN which defines the LIVING GOD who created the HEAVENS and the EARTH and ALL THINGS that are therein. When the foundations of the earth were laid, then was also laid the FOUNDATION of the SABBATH. I was shown that if the TRUE SABBATH had been kept there would never have been an infidel or an atheist. The observance of the SABBATH would have preserved the world from idolatry. The FOURTH COMMANDMENT has been trampled upon, therefore we are called upon to repair the breach in the Law and plead for the broken down SABBATH. The man of sin who exalted himself above God, and thought to change times and laws, brought about the change of the sabbath from the seventh to the first day of the week. In doing this he made a breach in the LAW of GOD. Just prior to the great day of God, a message is sent forth to warn the people to come back to their allegiance to the LAW of GOD which antichrist has broken down. Attention must be called to the breach in the Law by precept and example. I was shown that the THIRD ANGEL proclaiming the COMMANDMENTS of GOD and the FAITH of JESUS, represents the people who receive this message and raise the voice of warning to the world, to keep the COMMANDMENTS of GOD and HIS LAW as the apple of the eye, and that in response to this warning many would embrace the SABBATH of the LORD. {LS80 236.3}

Many and earnest were the efforts made to overthrow their faith. None could fail to see that if the EARTHY SANCTUARY was a figure or PATTERN of the HEAVENLY, the Law deposited in the ARK on earth was an exact transcript of the Law in the ARK in HEAVEN; and that an acceptance of the truth concerning the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY involved an acknowledgment of the claims of God’s Law, and the obligation of the SABBATH of the FOURTH COMMANDMENT. Here was the secret of the bitter and determined opposition to the harmonious exposition of the SCRIPTURES that revealed the MINISTRATION of Christ in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Men sought to close the DOOR which God had opened, and to open the DOOR which he had closed. But “He that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth,” had declared, “Behold, I have set before thee an open DOOR, and no man can shut it.” [Revelation 3:7, 8.] Christ had opened the DOOR, or MINISTRATION, of the MOST HOLY PLACE, LIGHT was shining from that open DOOR of the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN, and the FOURTH COMMANDMENT was shown to be included in the Law which is there enshrined; what God had established, no man could overthrow. {GC88 435.1} Also {GC 435.1} {4SP 275.1} {SR 380.2}

> … We are in the DAY of ATONEMENT, and we are to work in harmony with Christ’s work of CLEANSING the SANCTUARY from the sins of the people. Let no man who desires to be found with the wedding garment on, resist our Lord in His office work. As He is, so will His followers be in this world. We must now set before the people the work which by FAITH we see our great High-priest accomplishing in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Those who do not sympathize with Jesus in His work in the HEAVENLY COURTS, who do not CLEANSE the SOUL TEMPLE of every defilement, but who engage in some enterprise not in harmony with this work, are joining with the enemy of God and man in leading minds away from the truth and work for this time. {RH, January 21, 1890 par. 4}

In the great day of final award, the dead are to be “judged out of those things which were written in the Books, according to their works.” Revelation 20:12. Then by virtue of the ATONING BLOOD of CHRIST, the sins of all the truly penitent will be blotted from the BOOKS of HEAVEN. Thus the SANCTUARY will be freed, or CLEANSED, from the record of sin. In the type, this great WORK of ATONEMENT, or blotting out of sins, was represented by the services of the DAY of ATONEMENT – the CLEANSING of the EARTHY SANCTUARY, which was accomplished by the removal, by virtue of the blood of the sin offering, of the sins by which it had been polluted. {PP 357.6} Also {CCh 348.2}

In the TEMPLE in HEAVEN, the dwelling-place of God, His throne is established in RIGHTEOUSNESS and JUDGMENT. In the MOST HOLY PLACE is HIS LAW, the great rule of right by which all mankind are tested. The ARK that enshrines the TABLES of the LAW is covered with the MERCY-SEAT, before which Christ pleads His blood in the sinner’s behalf. Thus is represented the union of JUSTICE and MERCY in the Plan of Human Redemption. This union infinite wisdom alone could devise, and infinite power accomplish; it is a union that FILLS all HEAVEN with wonder and adoration. The CHERIBIM of the EARTHY SANCTUARY, looking reverently down upon the MERCY-SEAT, represent the interest with which the HEAVENLY host contemplate the work of redemption. This is the mystery of mercy into which ANGELS desire to look,— that God can be just while He justifies the repenting sinner, and renews His intercourse with the fallen race; that Christ could stoop to raise unnumbered multitudes from the abyss of ruin, and clothe them with the spotless garments of His own righteousness, to unite with ANGELS who have never fallen, and to dwell forever in the presence of God. {GC88 415.2} Also {GC 415.2} {4SP 261.3}

I was pointed back to the proclamation of the FIRST ADVENT of CHRIST. John was sent in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare the way for Jesus’ coming. Those who rejected the testimony of John were not benefited by the teachings of Jesus. Their opposition to the proclamation of His first Advent placed them where they could not readily receive the strongest evidence of His being the Messiah. Satan led on those who rejected the message of John to go still further, to reject Jesus and crucify Him. In doing this, they placed themselves where they could not receive the blessing on the Day of Pentecost, which would have taught them the way into the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The rending of the VEIL of the TEMPLE showed that the Jewish sacrifices and ordinances would no longer be received. The great Sacrifice had been offered, and had been accepted, and the HOLY SPIRIT which descended on the Day of Pentecost carried the minds of the disciples from the EARTHY SANCTUARY to the HEAVENLY, where Jesus had entered by His own blood, and shed upon His disciples the benefits of His ATONEMENT. The Jews were left in complete deception and total darkness. They lost all the LIGHT they might have had upon the Plan of Salvation, and still trusted in their useless sacrifices and offerings. They could not be benefited by the MEDIATION of CHRIST in the HOLY PLACE. The HEAVENLY SANCTUARY had taken the place of the EARTHLY, yet they had no knowledge of the way to the HEAVENLY. {1SG 169.1} Also {EW 259.1} {7ABC 477.1} {FLB 201.5} {SR 386.2}

Our FAITH in reference to the messages of the FIRST, SECOND, and THIRD ANGELS was correct. The great way-marks we have passed are immovable. Although the hosts of hell may try to tear them from their foundation, and triumph in the thought that they have succeeded, yet they do not succeed. These PILLARS of TRUTH stand firm as the eternal hills, unmoved by all the efforts of men combined with those of Satan and his host. We can learn much, and should be constantly searching the SCRIPTURES to see if these things are so. God’s people are now to have their eyes fixed on the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where the FINAL MINISTRATION of our GREAT HIGH PRIEST in the work of the JUDGMENT is going forward, – where He is interceding for His people. [REVIEW AND HERALD, NOV. 27, 1883.] {LS 278.2}

As with holy boldness Paul proclaimed the gospel in the synagogue at Thessalonica, a FLOOD of LIGHT was thrown upon the TRUE MEANING of the RITES and CEREMONIES connected with the TABERNACLE SERVICE. He carried the minds of his hearers beyond the EARTHLY service and the ministry of Christ in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, to the time when, having completed His mediatorial work, Christ would come again in power and great glory, and establish His kingdom on the earth. Paul was a believer in the second coming of Christ; so clearly and forcibly did he present the truths concerning this event, that upon the minds of many who heard there was made an impression which never wore away. {AA 228.3}

Behold the apostle preaching in the synagogue at Corinth, reasoning from the writings of Moses and the prophets, and bringing his hearers down to the Advent of the promised Messiah. Listen as he makes plain the work of the Redeemer as the GREAT HIGH PRIEST of mankind – the One who through the sacrifice of His own life was to make ATONEMENT for sin once for all, and was then to take up His ministry in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. Paul’s hearers were made to understand that the Messiah for whose Advent they had been longing, had already come; that HIS DEATH was the ANTITYPE of all the SACRIFICIAL OFFERINGS, and that His ministry in the SANCTUARY in HEAVEN was the great object that cast its shadow backward and made clear the ministry of the Jewish priesthood. {AA 246.2}

All HEAVEN watched with the deepest interest the reception of the message. But many who profess to love Jesus, and who shed tears as they read the story of the cross, instead of receiving the message with gladness, are stirred, with anger, and deride the good news of Jesus’ coming, and declare it to be delusion. They would not fellowship those who loved His appearing, but hated them, and shut them out of the churches. Those who rejected the FIRST MESSAGE could not be benefited by the SECOND, and were not benefited by the MIDNIGHT CRY, which was to prepare them to enter with Jesus by FAITH into the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. And by rejecting the TWO FORMER MESSAGES, they can see no LIGHT in the THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE, which shows the way into the MOST HOLY PLACE. I saw that the nominal churches, as the Jews crucified Jesus, had crucified these messages, and therefore they have no knowledge of the move made in HEAVEN, or of the way into the MOST HOLY, and they cannot be benefited by the intercession of Jesus there. Like the Jews, who offered their useless sacrifices, they offer up their useless prayers to the APARTMENT which Jesus has left, and Satan, pleased with the deception of the professed followers of Christ, fastens them in his snare, and assumes a religious character, and leads the minds of these professed christians to himself, and works with his power, his signs and lying wonders. Some he deceives in one way and some in another. He has different delusions prepared to affect different minds. Some look with horror upon one deception, while they readily receive another. Satan deceives some with Spiritualism. He also comes as an angel of light, and spreads his influence over the land. I saw false reformations every where. The churches were elated, and considered that God was marvelously working for them, when it was another spirit. It will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before. {1SG 171.1} Also {SR 387.2}

Christ is still our GREAT HIGH PRIEST in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and we may yet have FAITH in Christ. We may repent of our sins. Jesus says, “Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” Every provision has been made to meet the needs of our spiritual and our moral nature. God is love, and He cares for us. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him. LIGHT and IMMORTALITY are brought to LIGHT through the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus has said that He has set before us an open door, and no man can shut it. The OPEN DOOR is before us, and through the grace of Christ, beams of MERCIFUL LIGHT stream forth from the gates ajar. {YI, December 14, 1893 par. 4}

Everything that could be done has been done to make our salvation possible. Christ has obtained an everlasting victory, in order that He might open to us the DOOR of HEAVEN. To obtain our salvation, He hung on Calvary’s cross. For our sake He was laid in the tomb. For us He was raised from the dead; and for us, too, He declared over the rent sepulcher of Joseph. “I am the resurrection and the life.” And when at the close of His EARTHLY ministry He ascended to HEAVEN, the portals of the city of God were opened wide, and He entered as a conqueror, there to take up, in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, His ministry in behalf of those for whom He had given His life. The DIVINE HUMAN SON of GOD is now standing in the presence of the Father, pleading our cases and presenting His sacrifice as the ATONEMENT for our transgressions. {ST, January 14, 1903 par. 5}

Give to Jesus your devotion where He is in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY; seek for the HOLY SPIRIT as HIS REPRESENTATIVE wherever His people bow to worship Him. It becomes us to know Jesus by an experimental knowledge, as a personal Saviour. We should be gathering up every ray of divine light, not looking to old Jerusalem where Christ was once, but to the NEW JERUSALEM where He is now. Let us be gathering from the TREE of LIFE that God has planted, leaves that shall be for the healing of the nations, and fruit, precious, life-giving fruit as food to the soul. {PC 138.3}

He who dwells in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY judges righteously. His pleasure is more in HIS PEOPLE, struggling with temptation in a world of sin, than in the HOST of ANGELS that surround His throne. {COL 176.1}

I am instructed to bear a message to those who minister by holding forth the WORD of GOD to others. You must be converted. This is surely what you need. The spiritual anointing of the Lord will never come to self-sufficient men and women. Many who are in God’s service, proclaiming the truth by pen and voice, are not worked by the HOLY SPIRIT. Self has grown to large proportions. Until the SOUL is EMPTIED of SELF and the HOLY SPIRIT takes possession, you will be unready for the coming of Christ. You will certainly be weighed in the GOLDEN SCALES of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and be found wanting. {RH, February 7, 1957 par. 10} Also {Ms148-1899}

In all your conflicts, in all the trials and perplexities of life, seek counsel from God. The path of obedience to God is as a SHINING LIGHT that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Follow step after step in the path of duty. Steep places may have to be climbed, but go forward in the PATH of HUMILITY, of FAITH and SELF-DENIAL, leaving the clouds of doubt behind you. Sorrow not in a hopeless way, for the living need your care and love. You have enlisted in the Lord’s army; be brave soldiers of Jesus Christ. Let WORDS of PENITENCE and GRATEFUL PRAISE come up before God as sweet incense in HIS HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {2SM 272.3}

God’s claim is placed in one scale, and man’s character in the other; and by the BALANCES of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY every man’s doom is fixed for eternity. Look at this, you that have lived carelessly and have regarded sin lightly. For years you have continued without a sense of your responsibility to God – years of selfish indulgence in a forbidden course. Consider the perfect, unchanging character of the Law whose claims you have verbally vindicated. The LAW demands PERFECT, UNSWERVING OBEDIENCE. In the latter scale is also placed the sin, the folly, the deception, the unclean thoughts, the unholy actions; and the preponderance or the lightness of the weight determines the weal or woe of individuals; and the inscription is written upon the scale of many, “Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting.” {TM 439.2}

Godliness, sobriety, and consistency will characterize the life and example of every true Christian. The work which Christ is doing in the SANCTUARY ABOVE will engage the thoughts and be the burden of the conversation because by FAITH He has entered into the SANCTUARY. He is ON EARTH, but His sympathies are in harmony with the work that Christ is doing in HEAVEN. Christ is CLEANSING the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY from the sins of the people, and it is the work of all who are laborers together with God to the CLEANSING the SANCTUARY of the SOUL from everything that is offensive to Him. Everything like evil surmising, envy, jealousy, enmity, and hatred will be put away; for such things grieve the HOLY SPIRIT of GOD and put Christ to an open shame. Love of self will NOT EXIST, nor will any engaged in this work be puffed up. The example of Christ’s life, the consistency of His character, will make His influence far reaching. He will be a living epistle, known and read of all men. {Ms15-1886} Also {11MR 83.4}[1 Peter 3:8-12 quoted.]

If you have sinned in not rendering love and obedience to them, begin now to redeem the past. You cannot afford to take any other course; for it means to you the LOSS of ETERNAL LIFE. The Heart-searcher knows what is your attitude toward your parents; for He is weighing moral character in the GOLDEN SCALES of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. O, confess your neglect of your parents, confess your indifference toward them, and your contempt of GOD’S HOLY COMMANDMENT. . . . {MYP 332.2}

Christ had stood in the councils of God, He had dwelt in the innermost recesses of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and truths, unadulterated and original, were familiar to Him. He taught that which He knew, and testified that which He had seen. He was the TRUTH, the WORD of GOD, the LIGHT of LIFE, and He unfolded truth of the higher order. He was the WORD, the WISDOM of GOD, and He SPOKE the TRUTH as ONE having AUTHORITY. His word was with power, because from His knowledge He was unfolding truth that can never perish—the WORDS of ETERNAL LIFE. {Ms196-1899}

Every case passes in review before Christ in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY before He ceases to plead for man. Every name is repeated by the RECORDING ANGEL. Their moral worth is estimated, their acts and deeds are weighed in an even balance and they are rewarded according to their works. Those who served the world and who were ashamed of the cross of Christ, who studied their own convenience rather than the will of God, their names are read by the RECORDING ANGEL and they are pronounced unworthy of Christ’s protection and love, and their life is lost beyond redemption. The Prince of Life is ashamed of them and disowns them before HIS FATHER and HIS HOLY ANGELS. {Ms7-1875}

Any man who seeks to present theories which would lead us from the LIGHT that has come to us on the MINISTRATION in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, should not be accepted as a teacher. A true understanding of the SANCTUARY question means much to us as a people. When we were earnestly seeking the Lord for LIGHT on that question, LIGHT came. In VISION I was given such a view of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and the MINISTRATION connected with the HOLY PLACE, that for many days I could not speak of it. – Ms 125, 1907, p. 6. (“Lessons From the Visions of Ezekiel,” July 4, 1905.) {4MR 249.2} Also {OFC 271.5} {MR760 31.1} {PC 61.4}

Says the great deceiver: “We must watch those who are calling the attention of the people to the SABBATH of Jehovah; they will lead many to see the claims of the LAW of GOD; and the same LIGHT which reveals the TRUE SABBATH, reveals also the MINISTRATION of Christ in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and shows that the last work for man’s salvation is now going forward. Hold the minds of the people in darkness till that work is ended, and we shall secure the world and the church also. {4SP 337.2} Also {CS 154.2} {TM 472.2}

We are living in the ANTITYPICAL DAY of ATONEMENT, and our HIGH PRIEST is in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, pleading His blood in behalf of His people. The mighty achievement upon Calvary, should not become an old, forgotten story to any of us. … As we GROW in the KNOWLEDGE of the TRUTH, we shall have fellowship one with another, and the more we think of Jesus and His matchless love, the deeper will that love take possession of our heart, mind, and soul, and we will enter into the scenes of Christ’s humiliation, and become partakers of the divine nature. {RH, June 26, 1888 par. 6}

When Jesus leaves the SANCTUARY, then they who are holy and righteous will be holy and righteous still; for all their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the SEAL of the LIVING GOD. But those that are unjust and filthy will be unjust and filthy still; for then there will be no Priest in the SANCTUARY to offer their sacrifices, their confessions, and their prayers before the Father’s throne. Therefore what is done to rescue SOULS from the coming storm of wrath must be done before Jesus leaves the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. {Mar 242.8}

In these last days there is a call from HEAVEN inviting you to keep the STATUTES and ORDINANCES of the Lord. The world has set at naught the Law of Jehovah; but God will not be left without a witness to His righteousness, or without a people in the earth to proclaim His truth. The DOOR of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY has been OPENED, and no man can shut it, and the LIGHT of the HOLY of HOLIES is shining into the world. The people of God have had their attention called to the ARK of the TESTIMONY, and the Law within it has been revealed with its unalterable PRECEPTS. In HOLY VISION, John saw the remnant church on the earth, in an age of lawlessness, and he points them out in unmistakable language: “Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that KEEP the COMMANDMENTS of GOD, and the FAITH of JESUS.” They are in harmony with that Law that rests in the ARK in the MOST HOLY PLACE of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY. The whole duty of man is summed up in its SACRED PRECEPTS. In the HEART of the Law is the COMMANDMENT enjoining upon man the observance of the SABBATH of Jehovah, which the world and the church have trodden under their feet. For centuries men have walked in blindness concerning the TRUE SABBATH, and the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now is the DAY of REFORMATION, and He calls upon men everywhere to repent. When the LIGHT of God’s disregarded COMMANDMENT shone upon the path of those who sincerely loved God, they delayed not to keep HIS STATUTES. They realized that they must come out from the world and be separate, and touch not the unclean, that they might claim the promise, “I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” They became the repairers of the breach that has been made in the LAW of GOD, because they turned away their feet from the SABBATH, from doing their pleasure on GOD’S HOLY DAY, and called the SABBATH a delight, the Holy of the Lord, honorable, and did honor Him, not speaking their own words or finding their own pleasure. {ST, February 3, 1888 par. 5}

This false Christ was claiming what Satan claimed in HEAVEN – a right to all things. Christ in His humiliation was possessor of all things. In Him was no darkness at all. In the words of Simeon, He was, “A LIGHT to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of my people Israel.” The LIGHT of the SANCTUARY was to be KEPT BURNING before God. It was never to burn dim or go out. God was a LIGHT so effulgent, that Lucifer occupied the position of covering CHERIB, so that the universe could at all times look upon His glory. The LIGHT was not needed to give LIGHT to the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY; it was to represent His church, to give LIGHT to the WORLD. His chosen Israel was to be the LIGHT of the WORLD. That LIGHT was never to become extinct. {Ms112-1897}

We all need to keep the subject of the SANCTUARY in mind. God forbid that the clatter of words coming from human lips should lessen the belief of our people in the TRUTH that there is a SANCTUARY in HEAVEN, and that a PATTERN of this SANCTUARY was once built on this earth. God desires His people to become familiar with this PATTERN, keeping ever before their minds the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, where God is all and in all. We must keep our minds braced by PRAYER and a STUDY of GOD’S WORD, that we may grasp these TRUTHS. {14MR 217.1}

Guard Against a Growing Carelessness. – From the sacredness which was attached to the EARTHY SANCTUARY, Christians may learn how they should regard the place where the Lord meets with His people. There has been a great change, not for the better, but for the worse, in the habits and customs of the people in reference to religious worship. The precious, the SACRED THINGS which connect us with God are fast losing their hold upon our minds and hearts and are being brought down to the level of the common things. The reverence which the people had anciently for the SANCTUARY, where they met with God in SACRED SERVICE, has largely passed away. Nevertheless God Himself gave the order of His service, exalting it high above everything of a temporal nature. {CG 540.3} Also {5T 491.2} {YI, October 8, 1896 par. 3} {FLB 189.2}

As Jesus MOVED OUT of the MOST HOLY PLACE, I heard the TINKLING of the BELLS upon HIS GARMENT, and as He left, a cloud of darkness covered the inhabitants of the earth. There was then NO MEDIATOR between guilty man, and an offended God. While Jesus had been standing between God and guilty man, a restraint was upon the people; but when Jesus stepped out from between man and the Father, the restraint was removed, and Satan had the control of man. It was IMPOSSIBLE for the PLAGUES to be POURED OUT while Jesus OFFICIATED in the SANCTUARY; but as His work there is finished, as His intercession closes, there is nothing to stay the wrath of God, and it breaks with fury upon the shelterless head of the guilty sinner, who has slighted salvation, and hated reproof. The saints in that fearful time, AFTER the CLOSE of JESUS’ MEDIATION, were living in the sight of a HOLY GOD, without an INTERCESSOR. Every case was decided, every jewel numbered. Jesus tarried a moment in the OUTER APARTMENT of the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY, and the sins which had been confessed while He was in the MOST HOLY PLACE, He placed back upon the originator of sin, the Devil. He must suffer the punishment of these sins. {1SG 198.1} Also {EW 280.2}

Since Satan is the originator of sin, the direct instigator of all the sins that caused the death of the Son of God, justice demands that Satan shall suffer the final punishment. Christ’s work for the redemption of men and the PURIFICATION of the universe from sin will be closed by the removal of sin from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY and the placing of these sins upon Satan, who will bear the final penalty. So in the typical service, the yearly round of MINISTRATION closed with the PURIFICATION of the SANCTUARY, and the confessing of the sins on the head of the scapegoat. {PP 358.2}

Now the event takes place, foreshadowed in the last solemn service of the DAY of ATONEMENT. When the MINISTRATION in the HOLY of HOLIES had been completed, and the sins of Israel had been removed from the SANCTUARY by virtue of the blood of the sin-offering, then the SCAPE-GOAT was presented alive before the Lord; and in presence of the congregation of HIGH PRIEST confessed over him “all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat.” [Leviticus 16:21.] In like manner, when the WORK of ATONEMENT in the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY has been completed, then in the presence of GOD and HEAVENLY ANGELS, and the host of the redeemed, the sins of God’s people will be placed upon SATAN; he will be DECLARED GUILTY of all the evil which he has caused them to commit. And as the scape-goat was sent away into a land not inhabited, so SATAN will be BANISHED to the DESOLATE EARTH, an uninhabited and dreary wilderness. {GC88 657.3} Also {GC 658.1}

It was seen, also, that while the sin-offering pointed to Christ as a sacrifice, and the HIGH PRIEST represented Christ as a mediator, the SCAPE-GOAT TYPIFIED SATAN, the author of sin, upon whom the sins of the truly penitent will finally be placed. When the HIGH PRIEST, by virtue of the blood of the sin-offering, removed the sins from the SANCTUARY, he placed them upon the scape-goat. When Christ, by virtue of His own blood, removes the sins of His people from the HEAVENLY SANCTUARY at the close of His MINISTRATION, He will place them upon SATAN, who, in the execution of the JUDGMENT, must bear the final penalty. The scape-goat was sent away into a land not inhabited, never to come again into the congregation of Israel. So will SATAN be FOREVER BANISHED from the presence of God and His people, and he will be BLOTTED FROM EXISTENCE in the final destruction of sin and sinners. {4SP 266.3} Also {GC88 422.2} {GC 422.2}

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SANCTUARY on EARTH and SANCTUARY in HEAVEN