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Study 10 of 49

The Sanctuary Plan of Salvation

The gospel taught in furniture, blood, and ministry

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

The sanctuary is God's own visual curriculum in salvation: an altar for substitution, a laver for cleansing, bread and light and incense for the sustained life, and a mercy seat where law and mercy meet. Each article teaches a step in the experience of the believer.

Key points

  • The sanctuary services teach the plan of salvation in sequence.
  • Blood always precedes access; the altar stands before the door.
  • The mercy seat over the law shows justice and mercy reconciled.

Key texts

  • Exodus 25:8-9
  • Hebrews 9:1-14
  • Psalm 77:13
  • Leviticus 16
  1. Comprehension

    1. Trace the believer's experience through the sanctuary furniture.

  2. Scripture

    2. Read Exodus 25:8. What is God's stated purpose for the sanctuary?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. Why does the altar stand at the entrance rather than deeper inside?

  4. Contrast

    4. Contrast the daily service with the Day of Atonement.

  5. Scripture

    5. Read Hebrews 9:11-14. How does Christ's ministry surpass the earthly type?

  6. Doctrinal Clarity

    6. What does the mercy seat above the tables of law teach?

  7. Application

    7. Which article of furniture describes the point at which you are living now?

  8. Application

    8. How would you use the sanctuary to teach the gospel to a child?