LESSON 08- LIGHT FROM THE SANCTUARY

READ FOR THIS WEEK’S STUDY:
Exodus 25:8-9; Exodus 25:40; Hebrews 8:1-6; Leviticus 16:21; Leviticus 16:29-34; Leviticus 23:26-32; Hebrews 9:23-28; Daniel 7:9-10.

MEMORY TEXT:
 “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” (Hebrews 8:1-2).

SABBATH AND SUNDAY LESSONS
SUNDAY TITLE: THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY
Important Points
1.    Two Sanctuaries: The Bible outlines two sanctuaries—the earthly sanctuary built by Moses and the heavenly sanctuary, the "true tabernacle" which the Lord erected. The earthly sanctuary served as a pattern of the heavenly one (Exodus 25:8-9, 40; Hebrews 8:1-6).
2.    Prophecy of 2300 Days: The Millerites initially misunderstood the 2300-day prophecy, thinking it referred to the Second Coming. They later realized it referred to Christ’s ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, marking the beginning of the pre-Advent judgment (Daniel 7:9-10; Daniel 8:1-27).
3.    Cleansing of the Sanctuary: The cleansing of the sanctuary in heaven parallels the earthly cleansing described in Leviticus. It signifies the pre-Advent judgment, which began in 1844 (Leviticus 16:21, 29-34; Leviticus 23:26-32; Hebrews 9:23-28).
4.    Christ’s Intercession: Jesus serves as our High Priest, mediating on our behalf in the heavenly sanctuary. His sacrifice on the cross and His ongoing intercession are crucial for our salvation (Hebrews 8:1-2; Hebrews 7:25).
5.    Freedom from Sin: Through Jesus' sacrifice and intercession, believers are freed from the condemnation and power of sin. His role as Mediator ensures our forgiveness and salvation (Romans 8:1-4; 2 Corinthians 5:21).
6.    Assurance of Salvation: Believers can have assurance of salvation through faith in Christ, knowing that He intercedes for them continually in the heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 9:23-28).
7.    Role of the Earthly Sanctuary: The services and sacrifices of the earthly sanctuary were symbolic of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice and His ministry in the heavenly sanctuary. They pointed to God's plan of salvation (John 1:29).

Discussion Questions with Answers
1.    What is the significance of the two sanctuaries mentioned in the Bible?
o    Answer: The two sanctuaries represent God's plan of salvation. The earthly sanctuary built by Moses was a type or shadow of the heavenly sanctuary. The earthly sanctuary's services foreshadowed Christ's sacrifice and His high priestly ministry in the heavenly sanctuary.

2.    How did the Millerites' understanding of the 2300-day prophecy evolve?
o    Answer: Initially, the Millerites believed the prophecy referred to the Second Coming of Christ. After the Great Disappointment of 1844, they re-examined the Scriptures and understood that the prophecy referred to Christ's ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, marking the beginning of the pre-Advent judgment.

3.    Why is Christ’s role as a High Priest and Mediator important for believers?
o    Answer: Christ’s role as High Priest and Mediator is essential because it ensures our continual intercession before God. His sacrifice and mediation secure our forgiveness, cleanse us from sin, and provide the assurance of salvation, freeing us from both the condemnation and power of sin.

4.    What does the cleansing of the sanctuary signify, and how does it relate to the judgment?
o    Answer: The cleansing of the sanctuary signifies the pre-Advent judgment, which began in 1844. This process involves the investigation and judgment of the lives of believers to determine who has accepted Christ’s sacrifice and is worthy of eternal life. It parallels the Day of Atonement in the earthly sanctuary, where the high priest would cleanse the sanctuary and symbolically remove the sins of the people.

MONDAY
TITLE: IN THE HOLY OF HOLIES
Important Points
1.    Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): The Day of Atonement was a pivotal event in ancient Israel, where the high priest entered the Most Holy Place to make atonement for the sins of the people. This day involved fasting, heart examination, and confession of sins by the Israelites (Leviticus 16:1-34; Leviticus 23:26-32).
2.    Atonement Rituals: The high priest performed specific rituals including taking the blood of the Lord's goat into the sanctuary, sprinkling it on the mercy seat, and applying it to the altars to cleanse the sanctuary. Afterward, he placed his hands on the scapegoat, confessing the sins of Israel, which was then led into the wilderness, symbolizing the removal of sin (Leviticus 16:20-22).

3.    Symbolism of the Scapegoat: The scapegoat (Azazel) represents Satan, who ultimately bears responsibility for the sin problem. The transfer of sins to the scapegoat signifies the final disposition of sin, showing God's justice and mercy (Jeremiah 17:1).

4.    Heavenly Sanctuary Ministry: Christ's ministry in the heavenly sanctuary reflects the earthly Day of Atonement. Since 1844, Christ has been ministering in the Most Holy Place, conducting the pre-Advent judgment, which determines who among the professed believers is truly righteous (Hebrews 9:23-28).

5.    Justification and Sanctification: Believers are justified by Christ's righteousness and are called to afflict their souls by turning away from sin. This process involves growing in grace and living a life of holiness, reflecting the cleansing and renewal intended by the Day of Atonement (The Desire of Ages, p. 25).

Discussion Questions with Answers
1.    What were the key activities and rituals performed by the high priest on the Day of Atonement, and what did they symbolize?
o    Answer: The high priest performed rituals such as taking the blood of the Lord's goat into the sanctuary, sprinkling it on the mercy seat, and applying it to the altars to cleanse them. He then placed his hands on the scapegoat, confessing the sins of Israel, and it was led into the wilderness. These rituals symbolized the transfer and removal of sin from the people and the sanctuary, showing the ultimate cleansing and reconciliation between God and His people.

2.    How does the Day of Atonement relate to Christ’s ministry in the heavenly sanctuary?
o    Answer: The Day of Atonement in the earthly sanctuary is a type of Christ's ministry in the heavenly sanctuary. Since 1844, Christ has been ministering in the Most Holy Place of the heavenly sanctuary, conducting the pre-Advent judgment. This ministry involves examining the lives of believers, ensuring that those who have truly accepted His sacrifice are justified and sanctified, ultimately preparing a people for His second coming.

3.    Why is the concept of the scapegoat significant, and what does it teach us about sin and atonement?
o    Answer: The scapegoat, representing Satan, is significant because it shows that while God provides atonement and forgiveness through Christ, the ultimate responsibility for sin lies with Satan. The transfer of sins to the scapegoat and its removal into the wilderness symbolize the final eradication of sin and the restoration of purity and holiness. This teaches us about God's justice in dealing with sin and His mercy in providing a means for our reconciliation with Him.

TUESDAY
TITLE: THE JUDGMENT HAS COME
Important Points
1.    Theme of Judgment in the Bible: Judgment is a central theme in Scripture. Passages like Ecclesiastes 12:14, Matthew 12:36, and 1 Corinthians 4:5 emphasize that God will judge every deed, word, and thought, both good and evil.
2.    Similarity Between Daniel 7:9-10 and Revelation 14:6-7: Both passages highlight the judgment process involving God and heavenly beings. Daniel 7 describes the judgment scene with thrones and the Ancient of Days, while Revelation 14 declares that the hour of God's judgment has come.

3.    Judgment Before Christ's Return: Revelation 22:10-12 indicates that there must be a pre-Advent judgment to determine the rewards Christ will give upon His return. This implies that everyone will have made their final decision for or against Christ by that time.

4.    The Parable of the Ten Virgins: In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus differentiates between the wise and foolish virgins, symbolizing prepared and unprepared believers. The parable underscores the necessity of being spiritually ready for Christ's return since the door of mercy will shut once probation ends.
5.    Assurance Through Christ: Believers need not fear the judgment. Through Jesus, they can receive forgiveness, freedom from guilt, power to live righteously, and assurance of final victory. Christ's intercession ensures that those who trust in Him are judged favorably.

Discussion Questions with Answers
1.    What similarities do you see between Daniel 7:9-10 and Revelation 14:6-7 regarding the judgment?
o    Answer: Both passages depict a divine judgment scene involving God and heavenly beings. Daniel 7:9-10 describes thrones being set up and books being opened in the presence of the Ancient of Days, suggesting a judgment process. Revelation 14:6-7 presents an angel proclaiming that the hour of God's judgment has come, calling for reverence and worship. Both emphasize the solemnity and universality of God's judgment.

2.    According to Revelation 22:10-12, what happens when Jesus returns, and why is a pre-Advent judgment necessary?
o    Answer: Revelation 22:10-12 states that Jesus will return to give out final rewards, indicating that the fate of all humanity is sealed by then. This necessitates a pre-Advent judgment to determine who receives eternal life or condemnation. It ensures that when Christ returns, the judgment has already been made, and every individual has had the opportunity to decide for or against Him.

3.    Why does Jesus relate differently to the wise and foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13, and what lesson can we learn from this parable?
o    Answer: Jesus relates differently to the wise and foolish virgins based on their preparedness for His coming. The wise virgins, who brought extra oil, represent those who are spiritually prepared and vigilant. The foolish virgins, who did not, symbolize those who are careless and unprepared. The lesson is the importance of being constantly ready for Christ's return, maintaining a vibrant and active faith, as there will be no second chances once He comes.

WEDNESDAY
TITLE: THE GOOD NEWS OF THE MOST HOLY PLACE
Important Points
1.    Assurance and Divine Invitation: Hebrews 4:14-16 and 10:19-22 emphasize that believers are invited to come boldly to the throne of grace, holding fast to their faith in Jesus as the great High Priest. This provides assurance of God's grace and mercy, encouraging steadfast faith and perseverance.

2.    Jesus’ Blood and Atonement: The imagery of Jesus' blood on the altars and the mercy seat in the heavenly sanctuary symbolizes the pathway to reconciliation with God. Jesus’ sacrifice and His blood prepare the way for our pardon and the blotting out of our sins, ensuring our reunion with God.

3.    Vision in Revelation 11:19: The vision of the ark of the covenant in heaven, seen in Revelation 11:19, highlights the inseparable link between God's law and the gospel. It signifies that God's law, enshrined in the heavenly sanctuary, remains unchangeable and central to His justice and mercy.

4.    New Covenant Promise: Hebrews 8:10 underscores the new covenant promise where God writes His laws on the hearts and minds of His people. This covenant relationship transforms believers, providing forgiveness for past sins and the power to live obediently through Christ.

5.    Jesus’ Intercession: The intercession of Jesus is incredibly good news because He saves believers completely, from both the penalty and power of sin. His ministry in the Most Holy Place ensures continuous pardon and empowerment for holy living, reflecting the fullness of His salvation.

Discussion Questions with Answers
1.    What assurance and invitation do we find in Hebrews 4:14-16 and 10:19-22, and how should this affect our daily lives?
o    Answer: These verses assure us that we can confidently approach God's throne of grace, where we find mercy and help in times of need. This invitation encourages us to hold fast to our faith in Jesus, our High Priest, and to rely on Him for strength and guidance. In our daily lives, this means living with confidence and hope, knowing that Jesus intercedes for us and that we have access to God's grace.

2.    How does the vision in Revelation 11:19 emphasize the connection between God's law and the gospel, and why is this significant?
o    Answer: Revelation 11:19 reveals the ark of the covenant in heaven, underscoring that God's law is central to His throne and unchangeable. This vision emphasizes that the gospel does not nullify the law but rather upholds it through Christ's atonement. It is significant because it shows that God's justice and mercy are perfectly balanced in His plan of salvation, and that obedience to His law is made possible through the transformative power of the gospel.

3.    Why is Jesus’ intercession essential for our salvation, and what hope do we have because of it?
o    Answer: Jesus’ intercession is essential because it ensures our continuous pardon and empowerment to overcome sin. Without His intercession, we would stand condemned by the law. However, because of His ongoing ministry in the heavenly sanctuary, we have hope and assurance of complete salvation. Jesus saves us from both the penalty and power of sin, enabling us to live righteous lives in accordance with God's law. This intercession provides us with the assurance that we are never alone and that our salvation is secure in Christ.

THURSDAY
TITLE: JESUS, OUR ADVOCATE IN THE JUDGMENT
Important Points
1.    Christ’s Perfect Sacrifice and Ministry: Hebrews 10:9-14 highlights the distinction between the earthly priests’ repeated sacrifices and Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice. Jesus' sacrifice effectively deals with sin permanently and His priestly ministry in the heavenly sanctuary sanctifies believers.

2.    Jesus as Our Advocate: Christ stands as our Advocate in the heavenly sanctuary, interceding on our behalf. 1 John 2:1 emphasizes that Jesus advocates for us in the judgment, ensuring that those who trust in Him are represented before God.

3.    Significance of Jesus' Intercession: Hebrews 6:19-20 describes Jesus as the forerunner who invites us to follow Him into the Most Holy Place. His intercession is essential to the plan of salvation, offering us a clearer understanding of redemption and access to God's throne.

4.    The Complete Plan of Salvation: Jesus’ life, death, and intercession form a complete plan that addresses the great controversy and provides salvation. His life reveals God's love, His death exposes the true nature of sin, and His intercession applies the benefits of atonement to believers.

5.    Necessity of the Judgment: The judgment is necessary to the plan of salvation because it vindicates God’s justice and mercy. It demonstrates the efficacy of Christ’s sacrifice and ensures that salvation is granted to those who have accepted Him by faith.

Discussion Questions with Answers
1.    What differences are revealed in Hebrews 10:9-14 between the priest’s ministry in the earthly sanctuary and Jesus’ ministry in the heavenly sanctuary?
o    Answer: Hebrews 10:9-14 reveals that while earthly priests repeatedly offered sacrifices that could never fully take away sins, Jesus offered Himself once for all as a perfect sacrifice. His ministry in the heavenly sanctuary involves sanctifying believers and advocating for them, providing a complete and effective solution to the sin problem.

2.    Why is Jesus' intercession in the heavenly sanctuary essential to the plan of salvation, and what does it mean for believers?
o    Answer: Jesus' intercession is essential because it continues the work of salvation that began with His death on the cross. By interceding, He applies the merits of His sacrifice to those who believe, ensuring they receive forgiveness and transformation. For believers, this means they have ongoing access to God’s grace and assurance of salvation as they trust in Jesus' advocacy.

3.    How does Christ’s death on the cross relate to His intercession in the heavenly sanctuary, and why is the judgment a necessary part of the plan of salvation?
o    Answer: Christ’s death on the cross provided the once-for-all atoning sacrifice for sin, while His intercession in the heavenly sanctuary ensures that the benefits of this sacrifice are applied to believers. The judgment is necessary to vindicate God's character and to show that His justice and mercy are perfectly balanced. It confirms that those who are saved have accepted Christ’s sacrifice and lived in faith, demonstrating the completeness and fairness of God’s plan of salvation.

FRIDAY
TITLE: FURTHER STUDY
Important Points
1.    Jesus as Our Advocate: Jesus does not excuse our sins but presents our penitence and faith before the Father, claiming forgiveness for us by showing His wounded hands. This highlights His personal knowledge and deep care for each believer.

2.    Humility and Self-Examination: Believers are encouraged to maintain humility and engage in deep self-examination, recognizing their sinful state and the need for Christ's righteousness.
3.    Sanctification Through Christ: While acknowledging their sinful condition, believers should rely on Christ for their righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. Christ alone can effectively plead on our behalf against Satan’s accusations.

4.    Day of Atonement Parallel: The current time is likened to the great Day of Atonement in ancient Israel, where believers are called to afflict their souls through repentance and humility to ensure their names remain in the book of life.

5.    Christ’s Intercessory Role: Jesus' role in the heavenly sanctuary includes interceding for believers, silencing the accuser with His merits rather than theirs. This emphasizes the importance of His continuous advocacy.

6.    The Work of Atonement: The atonement involves not just forgiveness but the complete restoration and sanctification of believers. This is a comprehensive plan of salvation that assures believers of God's ongoing work in their lives.

7.    Hope in the Judgment: The understanding that Jesus stands as our advocate in the judgment, lifting His wounded hands for us, is the foundation of our hope. His sacrifice and ongoing intercession provide the assurance of salvation.

Discussion Questions with Answers
1.    What emotions are stirred at the thought that Jesus is lifting His wounded hands for us before the Father? Why is this our only hope in the judgment?
o    Answer: This thought evokes emotions of deep gratitude, humility, and awe. It underscores the personal sacrifice Jesus made and His ongoing commitment to intercede on our behalf. This is our only hope in the judgment because His sacrifice is the only basis for our forgiveness and acceptance before God. Without His intercession, we would stand condemned by our sins.

2.    We are living in the Day of Atonement. Atonement is the work of God in saving lost sinners. Why, then, should any day dedicated to the work of God in saving sinners be good news?
o    Answer: The Day of Atonement is good news because it signifies that God is actively working to cleanse us from sin and restore our relationship with Him. It reassures us that our sins can be forgiven and blotted out, and that we can live in the hope of eternal life. This period is a time of grace where we can seek God's mercy and experience His transformative power.

3.    Notice what Ellen G. White wrote: “Christ alone can make an effectual plea in our behalf. He is able to silence the accuser with arguments founded not upon our merits, but on His own.”—Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, January 2, 1908. How can you make this hope your own?
o    Answer: We can make this hope our own by placing our trust fully in Christ, recognizing that our salvation depends entirely on His merits and not on our own. By daily surrendering to Him, seeking His forgiveness, and accepting His righteousness, we can have the assurance that He is interceding for us. This involves a constant reliance on His grace and a commitment to live according to His will.

4.    How does understanding Jesus' role as our Advocate impact your personal spiritual life and daily walk with God?
o    Answer: Understanding Jesus as our Advocate provides comfort and assurance, knowing that we have someone who constantly intercedes for us. It motivates us to live a life of gratitude and faithfulness, trusting in His ongoing support and guidance. This understanding fosters a closer relationship with God, encouraging regular prayer, repentance, and reliance on His strength.
5.    Why is it important to maintain a humble and contrite heart in the context of the judgment and Christ’s intercession?
o    Answer: Maintaining a humble and contrite heart is crucial because it reflects our acknowledgment of our need for Christ’s mercy and forgiveness. It helps us to stay connected to God, continually seeking His grace. This attitude aligns us with the spirit of repentance and transformation that Christ’s intercession aims to accomplish, ensuring that we remain receptive to His sanctifying work in our lives.