The term "sanctuary" in the Bible refers to a sacred or holy place set apart for the worship of God. It is a place where God's presence dwells and where His people can come to offer sacrifices, pray, and seek communion with Him. The concept of the sanctuary is central to the worship practices of the Israelites and is deeply rooted in the Old Testament.

In the wilderness, God instructed Moses to build a tabernacle, a portable sanctuary, so that He might dwell among His people. Exodus 25:8-9 states, "And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. You must make it according to all that I show you—the design of the tabernacle as well as the design of all its furnishings." This tabernacle was a precursor to the more permanent Temple built by Solomon in Jerusalem, which served as the central place of worship for the Israelites.

The sanctuary was divided into distinct areas: the Outer Court, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place (or Holy of Holies). The Most Holy Place housed the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's throne and His covenant with Israel. Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16).

In the New Testament, the concept of the sanctuary is expanded. Jesus Christ is seen as the ultimate High Priest and the fulfillment of the sanctuary system. Hebrews 9:11-12 explains, "But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that have come, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made by hands, that is, not of this creation. He did not enter by the blood of goats and calves, but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption."

The sanctuary also symbolizes the believer's body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:19 states, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own."

Judgment

Judgment in the Bible refers to the divine assessment and decision-making process regarding human actions, both individually and collectively. It is a theme that runs throughout Scripture, emphasizing God's righteousness, justice, and sovereignty.

In the Old Testament, judgment often involves God's direct intervention in the affairs of nations and individuals. The Flood (Genesis 6-9), the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19), and the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12) are examples of God's judgment on sin and disobedience. The prophets frequently warned Israel and other nations of impending judgment due to their idolatry and injustice (e.g., Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel).

The New Testament continues the theme of judgment, with a focus on the final judgment at the end of the age. Jesus speaks of this in Matthew 25:31-46 , where He describes the separation of the righteous from the wicked, likening it to a shepherd separating sheep from goats. The righteous are rewarded with eternal life, while the wicked face eternal punishment.

The Apostle Paul also addresses judgment, emphasizing that all will stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Romans 14:10-12 states, "For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. It is written: 'As surely as I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow before Me; every tongue will confess to God.' So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God."

The Book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of the final judgment, where the dead are judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books. Revelation 20:12 describes, "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne. And there were open books, and one of them was the book of life. And the dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books."

Judgment is not only punitive but also redemptive, as it serves to purify and restore. Believers are assured that through faith in Jesus Christ, they are justified and will not face condemnation. Romans 8:1 affirms, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."