8.2 In the Holy of Holies
The Day of Atonement: Repentance, Cleansing, and Christ’s Representation

Read Leviticus 16:21, 29–34; 23:26–32 and Hebrews 9:23–28. Why was the Day of Atonement very important for ancient Israel?

The Day of Atonement, also known as Yom Kippur, was of utmost importance for ancient Israel as it symbolized the culmination of the year of repentance and forgiveness. On this day, the high priest entered the Most Holy Place of the sanctuary to intercede for the sins of the people and seek reconciliation with God. It was a day of fasting, repentance, and serious reflection on one’s personal relationship with God.

The ceremonies of the Day of Atonement, including the sacrifice of the scapegoat and the ritual cleansing of the sanctuary, underscored the pursuit of purity and reconciliation with God. The removal of the scapegoat Azazel into the wilderness symbolized the liberation of the people from their sins and their separation from sin itself.

Similarly, Jesus Christ, our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary, fulfills the role of mediator for our sins. His substitutionary sacrifice on the cross and His ongoing intercession before God enable us to receive forgiveness and cleansing from our sins. By accepting His righteousness, we can be justified before God and lead a life of sanctification.

The Day of Atonement reminds us that through Christ, we have the opportunity to be liberated from our sins and live in communion with God. It is an encouragement to live our lives in accordance with God’s will and continually strive for holiness.

The significance of the Day of Atonement in everyday life and faith is multifaceted and profound. Firstly, it reminds us of the necessity of repentance and cleansing from sin in our lives. We all make mistakes and fall short of God’s standard, but the Day of Atonement encourages us to seriously reflect on our sins, confess them before God, and seek forgiveness. This practice of repentance and cleansing helps strengthen our relationship with God and leads us on a path of holiness.

Furthermore, the Day of Atonement highlights the significant role that Jesus Christ plays as our High Priest and Mediator. His substitutionary sacrifice on the cross enables us to receive forgiveness and reconciliation with God. By accepting His righteousness, we are justified before God and have access to a vibrant relationship with Him. This realization should permeate our daily lives as we consciously strive to follow Christ and live out His example of love, forgiveness, and purity.

Moreover, the Day of Atonement reminds us of our responsibility to continually strive for holiness. The separation of the scapegoat Azazel from Israel symbolizes our need to separate ourselves from sin and lead a life of purity and devotion. By aligning ourselves in this manner, we can live in deep and fulfilling communion with God and put our faith into action.

Overall, the Day of Atonement should influence our daily lives and faith by encouraging us to repent, cleanse ourselves from sin, and deepen our relationship with God through Christ. It reminds us that through Christ, we have the opportunity to be liberated from our sins and lead a life of holiness that honors God and serves our fellow human beings.

The Day of Atonement reminds us that Christ enables our reconciliation with God and encourages us toward sanctification.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-light-from-the-sanctuary-8-2-in-the-holy-of-holies/

Lesson 8.Light from the Sanctuary
Light and Redemption from the Sanctuary: Jesus’ Intercession and Perfection

In Lesson 8, we delve deeper into the understanding of the sanctuary, a central theme in biblical theology. The sanctuary served as a place of God’s presence and as the center for divine service and worship. It reveals important aspects of the divine character and His plan of redemption for humanity.

In this lesson, we will particularly focus on the significance of Jesus’ ministry in the heavenly sanctuary. We will examine how His sacrifice on the cross and His intercession in the heavenly sanctuary are connected and why this is crucial for our faith. Furthermore, we will consider the role of judgment in the plan of redemption and how our daily lives and faith are connected to this sublime concept.

Let us delve into the rich teaching of the sanctuary and discover how it helps us experience and reflect God’s love, mercy, and justice in our lives.

8.1 The Heavenly Sanctuary
Assurance of Redemption through Christ

Read Exodus 25:8–9, 40 and Hebrews 8:1–6. What two sanctuaries are described in these verses?

The distinction between the earthly and heavenly sanctuaries is crucial as it forms the foundation of Christian faith and Adventist doctrine concerning end-time events. The Holy Scriptures describe the earthly sanctuary, built by Moses according to God’s instructions, as a pattern or foreshadowing of the heavenly sanctuary. This earthly sanctuary and its ceremonies prophetically pointed to redemption through Jesus Christ, who offered the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity.

The fulfillment of the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 in 1844 marks a crucial turning point in prophetic chronology and points to the heavenly sanctuary as the place of end-time cleansing and heavenly judgment. Jesus Christ is portrayed as our High Priest who ministers in the heavenly sanctuary on our behalf, securing our redemption and protection from the power of sin.

The assurance of redemption through Christ and liberation from the bondage of sin are cornerstones of the Christian faith. Through His sacrifice on the cross and His ongoing intercession in the heavenly sanctuary, Jesus offers us the opportunity to be free from guilt and condemnation and to live in communion with God. These truths encourage us to hold fast to faith and embrace the hope of the perfect work of redemption realized in Christ.

What does it mean for you to know that Jesus ministers for you in heaven, that is, that He intercedes for you there? Why do you need a mediator? Why is this truth good news?

The certainty that Jesus ministers for us in heaven is a source of hope and comfort. It means that we are not alone, that we have a mighty advocate who intercedes for us and represents our concerns before God. This is particularly significant because as humans, we often fail, make mistakes, and succumb to temptation. In such moments, we need someone to advocate for us, someone who knows our weaknesses and stands up for our salvation.

The need for a mediator stems from our imperfection and sinfulness. As sinners, we cannot stand directly before a holy God. Our sins separate us from Him. A mediator, like Jesus Christ, who was without sin, stands in our place to bridge this gap. Through His substitutionary sacrifice on the cross, He bore the penalty for our sins and enables us to be justified before God.

This truth is good news because it gives us hope. It means that our past does not determine our destiny. Through Jesus, we have the opportunity to be reconciled with God and lead a new life. We can confess our sins, repent, and through faith in Christ, receive forgiveness and healing. It is an encouragement to know that our relationship with God is not based on our own merits but on His grace and love expressed through Jesus Christ.

The truth about Jesus’ ministry in the heavenly sanctuary and His role as our mediator has direct implications for our daily lives and our faith.

Firstly, it gives us hope and comfort in difficult times. When faced with challenges, temptations, or feelings of guilt, we can remember that Jesus intercedes for us and represents our concerns before God. We do not have to struggle alone or feel alone but can rely on Jesus being with us and supporting us through His intercession.

Secondly, this truth reminds us that we can confess our sins and ask for forgiveness. Since Jesus intercedes for us, we have the opportunity to approach God with a clean heart and receive His forgiveness. We do not have to be burdened by guilt and condemnation but can experience the freedom and healing offered through forgiveness in Christ.

Thirdly, this truth strengthens our faith and our assurance of redemption. By understanding that Jesus ministers for us in the heavenly sanctuary, we recognize the depth of His love and dedication to us. This strengthens our faith in His ability to save us and keep us in His grace, giving us the assurance that we are loved and accepted, regardless of our circumstances or mistakes.

Overall, the knowledge of Jesus’ ministry in the heavenly sanctuary encourages us to strengthen our faith, confess our sins, and rely on His infinite grace and love as we journey through life.

The certainty that Jesus ministers for us in heaven gives us hope in our weaknesses and comfort in our trials.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-light-from-the-sanctuary-8-1-the-heavenly-sanctuary/

Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 8.Light from the Sanctuary  |
Light and Redemption from the Sanctuary: Jesus’ Intercession and Perfection |

In Lesson 8, we delve deep into the significance of the heavenly sanctuary, a central theme of the Christian faith. We explore the role of Jesus as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary, his intercession for us before God, and the significance of his sacrifice on the cross for our redemption. This lesson illuminates the inseparable connection between God’s law and the Gospel, as well as Jesus’ invitation to follow him on the path of redemption and perfection. Let us immerse ourselves in the light emanating from the sanctuary, granting us hope, forgiveness, and strength.

Memory Text: hebrew 8:1.2 – “We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a Minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man.”

Content:
8.1 The Heavenly Sanctuary
Assurance of Redemption through Christ

The two sanctuaries described in the mentioned Bible passages are the earthly sanctuary built by Moses and the heavenly sanctuary. The earthly sanctuary served as a model or “type” for the heavenly sanctuary to which it pointed. With Christ’s sacrifice, the earthly sanctuary lost its significance, and the heavenly sanctuary of the new covenant came into focus.

The earthly sanctuary and the worship services therein were precursors to the divine plan of redemption, with each sacrifice pointing to Golgotha. Jesus Christ is depicted as the sacrificial lamb and eternal High Priest who lives for us and intercedes for us forever.

Through Christ, we are freed from the guilt and power of sin. His ministry in the heavenly sanctuary works for us by freeing our lives from sin and granting us assurance of redemption when we hold fast to faith in him.

8.2 In the Holy of Holies
The Day of Atonement: Repentance, Cleansing, and Christ’s Representation

The Day of Atonement was of crucial importance for ancient Israel, as it represented a time of repentance and cleansing where the people confessed their sins before God and humbled themselves. On this day, the High Priest entered the Most Holy Place with a blood sacrifice before God to cleanse the sanctuary and the people from sin. The scapegoat symbolized God’s assumption of sins as it was removed from the camp. These actions illustrated the cleansing of the people and the sanctuary from sin and guilt.

In the heavenly sanctuary, Christ serves as our representative, justifying us through his sacrifice and representing us before God. Our participation in his righteousness means turning away from sin and leading a life of holiness by humbling ourselves and growing in grace. Thus, we endure divine judgment through Jesus and have assurance of our redemption.

8.3 The Judgment Has Come
The Inevitable Judgment: Prepared through Christ

The Bible clearly speaks of the impending judgment, mentioned in Daniel 7:9–10 and Revelation 14:6–7, among other passages. It is an inevitable event where God reveals all the works of humanity and demands accountability. Jesus emphasized the importance and inevitability of this judgment. When Christ returns, the final destiny of each person is determined, and there is no second chance. The different treatment of believers in Matthew 25:1–13 underscores the importance of personal faith and readiness to follow Christ. Ultimately, we need not fear judgment, for through Christ, we have forgiveness, freedom from guilt, and ultimate victory.

8.4 The Good News from the Most Holy Place
Redemption in the Most Holy Place: Invitation to Forgiveness and Obedience

The verses in Hebrews 4:14–16 and 10:19–22 convey powerful assurance and divine invitation. We are encouraged to come boldly to our great High Priest Jesus, who has saved us and now meets us with compassion and grace. The blood of Jesus paves the way for our reconciliation with God, and his mercy surpasses his justice. The vision in Revelation 11:19 emphasizes the importance of the heavenly sanctuary in the Great Controversy and demonstrates the inseparable connection between God’s law and the Gospel. In the sanctuary, we find forgiveness for our sins and the power to lead an obedient life, as Jesus writes the law in our hearts and saves us completely.

8.5 Jesus, Our Advocate in the Judgment
The Immeasurable Grace: Jesus’ Intercession and Perfection

Hebrews 10:9–14 highlights the crucial difference between the priest’s service in the earthly sanctuary and Jesus’ service in the heavenly sanctuary. While the sacrifices of earthly priests were temporary and could not completely remove sin, Christ, with his unique sacrifice on the cross, brought eternal redemption and then entered as our advocate in the heavenly sanctuary. His invitation to follow him is a call to participate in his perfect sacrifice and mediation for us before God. Through Jesus, we can understand the true meaning of redemption and receive the power of his intercession in the heavenly sanctuary to withstand the Great Controversy against evil.

8.6 Summary
The Sanctuary: Center of Redemption and Intercession

In Lesson 8, “Light from the Sanctuary,” important aspects of the heavenly sanctuary and its significance for Christian redemption are illuminated. Through passages like Hebrews 4:14–16 and 10:9–14, it is shown that Christ serves as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary and offers us redemption and intercession before God. His unique sacrifice on the cross allowed for the removal of sin and opened the way to forgiveness and perfection. The inseparable connection between God’s law and the Gospel is also emphasized, and Jesus invites us to follow him in the midst of the Great Controversy, accepting his path of redemption and intercession.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-lesson-8-light-from-the-sanctuary-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 7.Motivated by Hope  |
The Hope of Christ’s Return: Light in Dark Times |

In the seventh lesson, we delve into the depths of Christian hope, which is inseparably linked to the promise of Christ’s return. We explore how this hope has provided comfort and assurance throughout the centuries, serving as a firm anchor in times of trial. Additionally, we take a closer look at significant events and figures that have shaped the hope of Christ’s return, such as William Miller and his discovery of prophetic time periods. This lesson invites us to be motivated by this hope and to prepare ourselves for the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Memory Text: Isaiah 25,9 – “And it will be said in that day: ‘Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for Him; we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.’”

Content:
7.1 The Promise of His Return
The Longed-for Hope: The Promise of Christ’s Return

The hope of Christ’s return has brought comfort and confidence to Christians throughout the centuries. This hope offers a perspective on the end of suffering and injustice, as well as a vision of a world of peace and communion with Christ. The biblical promises in John, Thessalonians, and Titus have provided believers with a solid anchor in times of trial and loss. The prospect of resurrection and eternal communion with God and the redeemed of all ages fills the hearts of believers with joy and confidence.

7.2 Anticipating the Time
Christ’s Return: Clarity Amidst Human Misunderstandings

The return of Christ, a central truth of faith, has undergone different interpretations over time. From the concept of an earthly kingdom to spiritual lethargy, it highlights the challenges of human misunderstandings. However, scripture clearly describes his return: an event that will be unmistakable, seen and heard by everyone. In this expectation lies a precious hope, a call to preparation and steadfast devotion to withstand the day of the Lord.

7.3 William Miller and the Bible
The Biblical Journey of Discovery: William Miller and Understanding Christ’s Return

William Miller was an example of an eager Bible student who discovered the truth about Christ’s return through thorough study. His method of comparing scripture with scripture and studying prophecy with the same seriousness as other biblical passages shows us the importance of a methodical and open-minded approach to scripture. The revelation of God’s word through the Holy Spirit and the understanding of prophetic symbols are essential for understanding end-time events.

7.4 The 2300 Days in Daniel 8:14
Unlocking Prophetic Time: William Miller’s Quest for Understanding

The discovery of the 2300 days in Daniel 8:14 was a significant milestone in William Miller’s quest for understanding divine schedules. Through careful study of prophecy and meticulous comparisons within scripture, he concluded that God has a precise timetable for fulfilling his promises. The connection between Daniel 8 and Daniel 9 led to a deeper understanding of the 2300 days and their significance for end-time events.

7.5 The Longest Prophetic Time Line
The Timeframe of Prophecy: Daniel 8:14 and the Advent Movement

The prophecy of the 2300 years in Daniel 8:14 marks a crucial point in Adventist history. The precise calculation of the beginning of this period, based on the decree of the Persian King Artaxerxes in 457 BC, led to important insights into the timing of the beginning and end of this prophecy. The 70-week prophecy in Daniel 9 led to an understanding of the timing of the first coming of the Messiah and other important events in salvation history. The expectation of the year 1844 as the endpoint of the 2300 years shaped the beliefs of early Adventists about Christ’s return and the cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary.

7.6 Summary
Hope that Inspires: Prophetic Time and Christ’s Return

The lesson “Motivated by Hope” takes us through various aspects of Christian hope, particularly those connected with Christ’s return. We see how this hope has provided comfort and assurance over the centuries, offering a firm anchor in times of trial. The discovery and understanding of prophetic time periods, especially the 2300 days in Daniel 8:14, played a significant role in Adventist history and shaped the community’s understanding of end-time events. This lesson encourages us to be motivated by this hope and to prepare for the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-lesson-7-motivated-by-hope-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 6.The Two Witnesses  |
Bearers of Divine Truth and Triumph  |

In the sixth lesson, we immerse ourselves in the fascinating symbolism of the “two witnesses” as presented in the biblical Revelation. These enigmatic figures, representing the Old and New Testaments, are more than mere characters in an apocalyptic narrative – they are messengers of divine truth and transformation. Their story and significance invite us to delve deeper into the prophetic time periods that reveal the continuity of divine faithfulness amidst darkness. Yet, even as they endure a time of martyrdom and suppression, they prophesy the unstoppable triumph of truth and its resurrected power that will ultimately prevail.

Memory Text: Isaiah 40,8 – “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.”

Content:
6.1 Two Witnesses
The Witnesses: Bearers of Divine Truth and Transformation

The two witnesses in Revelation 11 powerfully symbolize the proclamation of the Word of God. Their ability to speak prophecy and influence natural laws echoes the deeds of prophets like Elijah and Moses. The fire that comes from their mouths represents the transformative power of the divine Word, bringing both light and judgment. These witnesses represent the Old and New Testament scriptures, together presenting God’s testimony to the world. Their role is to spread God’s truth and light and to warn those who oppose them.

6.2 Prophetic Time Periods
The Continuity of Divine Faithfulness Amidst Darkness

The prophetic time periods in Revelation and Daniel reveal a remarkable alignment. The 1260 days during which the enemies of God trample the truth correspond to the three and a half times of persecution of God’s people according to Daniel. These timeframes, whether interpreted as days, months, or years, indicate a period of spiritual darkness and persecution, especially during the papal rule in the Middle Ages. Nevertheless, the Word of God remains steadfast and effective through its witnesses, even though cloaked in mourning attire, and there are always faithful followers who adhere to its teachings.

6.3 The Two Witnesses Are Killed
The Martyrdom of Truth: The Killing of the Two Witnesses

The prophetic verses in Revelation 11:7-9 symbolically reveal the fate of the two witnesses of God, represented by the Old and New Testaments. Their killing symbolizes the suppression and attack on biblical truth during the papal rule in the Middle Ages and the French Revolution. The subsequent public humiliation of their bodies symbolizes the triumph of atheism and immorality over divine authority. Yet even amid this darkness, the fidelity of Scripture is preserved for the coming days and half a time before the powers of unbelief wane.

6.4 The Two Witnesses are Resurrected
The Revival of Truth: The Resurrection of the Two Witnesses

Revelation 11:11 prophesies the resurrection of the two witnesses, symbolized by the Old and New Testaments. This signifies the powerful revival and spread of the Word of God after the French Revolution. The fear experienced by those witnessing this revival underscores the overwhelming power and effectiveness of the divine Word. This prophetic fulfillment demonstrates that despite all attacks and suppression, the Bible remains alive, and those who trust in it are filled with new strength.

6.5 Truth Triumphs
The Dominion of Christ and the Seal of the Law

Despite the dark hours and the attacks of the enemy, the ultimate triumph of truth is predetermined. Revelation 11:15-18 describes the glorious climax when Christ takes reign and the kingdom of God triumphs. The gospel will be preached to all nations, and evil will be defeated. Looking into heaven, John sees the divine presence in the temple and the significance of God’s law as a standard of judgment. This vision encourages us to hold fast to Christ and His truth in the face of all trials.

6.6 Summary
The Victory of Truth: The Prophecy and Fulfillment of the Two Witnesses

Lesson 6 highlights the symbolic significance of the two witnesses, represented by the Old and New Testaments. Despite the dark times of persecution and martyrdom, truth will ultimately prevail. The prophetic time periods demonstrate the continuity of divine faithfulness, even amidst the darkness of history. The resurrection of the two witnesses after their martyrdom symbolizes the powerful revival and spread of the divine Word, while the victory of Christ and God’s dominion over evil mark the ultimate triumph of truth.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-lesson-6-the-two-witnesses-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/