Introduction

The message begins with a prayer acknowledging God as the only true God and expressing gratitude for the Sabbath, a day of spiritual blessing and revelation. The speaker invites the audience to understand the work taking place in the heavenly sanctuary, particularly focusing on the role of Jesus Christ as the High Priest interceding on behalf of His people.

The Burning Sensor and Incense in the Sanctuary

• Definition: The burning sensor refers to the altar where incense is burned. Incense is symbolic and significant in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament sanctuary services.
• Biblical Reference: Exodus 30:1, 7-8 describes the altar of incense placed before the veil of the sanctuary, where Aaron (the High Priest) was to burn incense every morning and evening perpetually.
• Symbolism: The incense represents the prayers of the saints ascending to God. Revelation 8:3-4 connects incense with the prayers of God’s people mingled before His throne.
• Role of Jesus: Jesus is portrayed as the High Priest who ministers before God, offering our prayers like incense.

The Sanctuary and Its Symbolism

• Illustration: The sanctuary includes the altar of incense (prayer), the veil, the Ark of the Covenant (testimony), seven candlesticks (Holy Spirit), and the table of showbread (Word of God).
• God’s Presence: Behind the veil is God’s throne. Jesus stands before God as mediator for humanity.
• Colors:
  • Blue: Represents God’s law and character; associated with the sapphire stone seen by Moses and the blue fringes on priestly garments (Numbers 15:38-39).
  • White: Represents righteousness and purity, seen in Revelation 19:8 as the fine linen worn by the saints.

Law, Character, and Internalization

• The law is described as a transcript or reflection of God’s character (Psalm 119:142).
• True righteousness is not just external obedience but an internal transformation by God’s grace.
• Daily study of God’s Word, prayer, and connection with the Holy Spirit leads to this internalization.
• Faith without works is dead (James 2:14-20); genuine faith transforms life and character.

Day of Atonement and Judgment

• The Day of Atonement is a solemn holy day representing judgment and cleansing in heaven.
• On this day, no sacrifices or prayers are offered on earth; it symbolizes the end of probation.
• Leviticus 16 details the High Priest’s special garments and duties on this day.
• This day serves as a “dress rehearsal” every Sabbath for preparing for final judgment.
• Afflicting one’s soul means humbling oneself before God and repenting sincerely (James 4:8).

Christ’s Ministry in the Most Holy Place

• Hebrews 9 explains Christ entering the Most Holy Place once a year to offer Himself as a sacrifice for sin.
• Jesus’ work is to cleanse and put away sin completely (“cancel” or “disannul” – Greek 115).
• Living believers undergo a special work of purification during this investigative judgment period that began in 1844.
• This ongoing intercession continues until Christ returns.

Prayer, Repentance, and Cleansing

• Psalm 51 is emphasized as an example prayer for forgiveness and sanctification (David’s prayer after his sin with Bathsheba).
• True repentance involves admitting sin, desiring inward truth, and asking God for a clean heart and renewed spirit.
• Forgiveness must be followed by sanctification—actual change in life.
• The Holy Spirit aids believers in overcoming sin daily.

Practical Application for Believers Today

• Daily prayer life and Bible study represent the altar of incense, showing continuous communion with God.
• Sanctification is a daily process preparing believers for Christ’s return.
• Believers are called to reform their customs and practices to conform with God’s law, including Sabbath observance.
• The sanctuary services symbolize spiritual realities that are relevant today.
• The promise in Romans 8:38-39 assures believers that nothing can separate them from God’s love when they maintain daily fellowship with Christ.

Conclusion

The message closes with a heartfelt prayer asking God for mercy, forgiveness, a renewed heart, and strength to overcome sin. It encourages believers to boldly approach God’s throne of grace through Christ’s intercession while preparing for His soon return.

Key Takeaways

• Incense in the sanctuary symbolizes prayers ascending to God.
• Jesus Christ serves as High Priest interceding on our behalf in the heavenly sanctuary.
• God’s law reflects His character and calls for internal transformation, not just external obedience.
• The Day of Atonement represents heavenly judgment and final purification.
• Daily prayer, Bible study, and sanctification prepare believers for Christ’s return.
• Genuine repentance and faith result in changed lives empowered by the Holy Spirit.

This message emphasizes a deep understanding of sanctuary symbolism to enrich personal faith and readiness for Christ’s second coming.