Introduction

Access to God's presence is a central theme in Christian theology, reflecting the relationship between humanity and the divine. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, the Bible outlines the conditions, means, and significance of entering into the presence of God. This entry explores the biblical foundations and theological implications of accessing God's presence, emphasizing the transformative power of this divine encounter.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, access to God's presence was both a privilege and a profound responsibility. The presence of God was often associated with specific locations, such as the Garden of Eden, the Tabernacle, and the Temple. In Genesis 3:8, Adam and Eve experienced direct fellowship with God in Eden before the fall. However, sin disrupted this access, leading to their expulsion from the garden.

The Tabernacle, and later the Temple, served as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Exodus 25:8-9 describes God's command to the Israelites to build a sanctuary so that He might dwell among them. The Most Holy Place, or Holy of Holies, was where God's presence was most intensely manifested, and only the high priest could enter, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2-34).

The Role of Sacrifice and Mediation

Access to God's presence in the Old Testament was mediated through the sacrificial system and the priesthood. Sacrifices were necessary to atone for sin and purify the people, allowing them to approach God. Leviticus 17:11 states, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life."

The priesthood, particularly the high priest, served as the mediator between God and the people. The high priest's entry into the Holy of Holies symbolized the people's access to God, albeit limited and indirect.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of access to God's presence through Jesus Christ. The incarnation of Christ signifies God dwelling among humanity in a new and profound way (John 1:14). Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice, rendering the old sacrificial system obsolete (Hebrews 9:11-14).

Through His death and resurrection, Jesus provides believers with direct access to God. Hebrews 10:19-22 declares, "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith."

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in granting believers access to God's presence. The Spirit indwells believers, making them temples of the living God (1 Corinthians 3:16). The Spirit guides, empowers, and intercedes for believers, facilitating a continuous relationship with God (Romans 8:26-27).

Prayer and Worship

Prayer and worship are vital means by which believers access God's presence. Through prayer, Christians communicate with God, expressing adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to present their requests to God, promising that "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Worship, both individual and corporate, is an expression of reverence and adoration for God. John 4:23-24 emphasizes worship in spirit and truth, highlighting the intimate and genuine nature of accessing God's presence through worship.

Eschatological Hope

The ultimate fulfillment of access to God's presence is eschatological, pointing to the future reality of eternal communion with God. Revelation 21:3 envisions a new heaven and a new earth where "the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God." This hope inspires believers to live in anticipation of the full realization of God's presence.