The Holy of Holies

A distinct analogy may be drawn between the tabernacle and the regenerated and sanctified lives: the first sanctuary is symbolic of the regenerated life; the second sanctuary or inner room is symbolic of the sanctified life. The difference between the two rooms is seen in the manner in which they were constructed and furnished.

The first thing realized on entering the holy of holies was the deep quiet. Heavy folds of drapery separated this inner room from the other parts of the tabernacle. In like manner one of the outstanding features of the sanctified life is the divine stillness which settles down over all the soul faculties. The soul possesses not only peace with God but the peace of God; the Dove of Peace spreads her wings above their restlessness, a strange and heavenly quietness fills the whole being. There is a sense of fullness, a sense of being inwardly healed, an exquisite experience of purity, while the soul fairly melts under the baptism of perfect love. And through all and in all the Spirit of God whispers to the soul, "This is sanctification."

The second noticeable fact on entering the holy of holies is that it was a hidden place. When the high priest entered the holy of holies on the great day of Atonement, the people gazed after him, but no one dared to follow him and he was hidden from the view of the people. Just so, the moment we are sanctified a curtain drops behind us and we enter upon a hidden life which the world and the unsanctified church fail to comprehend.

Third, we notice the ark. The ark typifies the sanctified heart. God's plan and purpose in redemption is to bring the human heart into the holy of holies.

Fourth, we observe the table of law known as the ten commandments.

Fifth, we behold within this ark the incorruptible manna. The manna which fell in the open plain was a blessing, but as the hours passed it melted or corrupted. Placed within the ark it remained sweet and fresh for hundreds of years. That this illustration has its spiritual meaning there can be no doubt.

Sixth, we notice Aaron's rod which budded, blossomed, and yielded almonds, all in one night.

Seventh, we note the abiding light in the tabernacle.

Finally, there was the Presence of God behind the second veil.
 

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