Counsel of Spiritual Life

Counsel #6 — The Sacrificial System Overview

Picture: Counsel #6 — The Sacrificial System Overview CSL 137.1

The sacrificial system and the earthly and heavenly sanctuary services outlined in the books of Leviticus and Hebrews serve as a blueprint for overcoming sin. This detailed system wasn't about appeasing God; it was a symbolic education plan portraying the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the ongoing process of cleansing from sin. CSL 137.2

The core purpose of the sanctuary service was to provide a way for repentant Israelites to reconcile with God. Through offerings and rituals, they symbolically transferred their sins onto the sacrificial animal, which was then slain. This act was to remind them of the future sacrifice of Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, whose blood would provide forgiveness and cleansing of humanity's sin.^[103] CSL 137.3

By understanding the sacrificial system and the sanctuary service as a foreshadowing of Christ's work, we gain a powerful perspective of what our salvation cost. Faith in Jesus' sacrifice for us personally brings us into grateful relationship with Him. Hallelujah!^[104] CSL 137.4

“Let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.” Exodus 25:8 NKJV CSL 137.5

“We can overcome. Yes, fully entirely. Jesus died to make a way of escape for us, that we might overcome every evil temper, every sin, every temptation, and sit down at last with Him.” Ellen White in Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 44 CSL 137.6

Reflect: What specific areas of your life do you need to bring to the altar of sacrifice, seeking God's cleansing and renewal? CSL 137.7