Getting Closer to God
Posted by: godsword in Untagged on
Jun 15, 2009
One of the underlying principles found throughout the Old Testament is that of separation. Not only did God call a nation of people His own, but even within the Nation of Israel there was a hierarchical separation of God's people. They were separated by two things: the first of which was totally out of their control, their birthright or ordination. The second criterion for separation was sanctification, which actually means to be set apart, and was accomplished by compliance with a rigid set of sacrifices and rituals.
Even the physical place of worship was constructed according to this principle of separation; from the outside to the inside were Solomon's Porch, the Outer Court of the Gentiles, the Court of the Women, the Court of the Priests. All of these led upward to the Holy of Holies. These were places where one could come progressively closer to God. Still, as one entered into the temple in Jerusalem he could only go so far based on those two criteria. Only specifically qualified people could go to the next level.
The new birth experience provides both the birthright and sanctification that allows New Testament believers to enter into the most Holy place - the very presence of God.
Each of the synoptic gospels records that the veil in the temple was torn in two from top to bottom at the moment when Jesus died. This signified the access that was now available to any believer. No longer was the intimate presence of God a place reserved for the High Priest.
Hebrews 10:14-22
14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,
16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;
17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
21 And having an high priest over the house of God;
22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.