The concept of a "turning point" in the sanctuary of God is a profound theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of worship, repentance, and divine revelation. The sanctuary, as described in the Bible, serves as a sacred space where God meets with His people, offering a place for atonement, instruction, and transformation.

Biblical Context

The sanctuary, initially established as the Tabernacle in the wilderness (Exodus 25:8-9), and later as the Temple in Jerusalem, represents the dwelling place of God among His people. It is a place where the divine and human intersect, and where significant turning points in the spiritual life of Israel occur. The sanctuary is central to the covenant relationship between God and His people, serving as a constant reminder of His holiness, mercy, and justice.

Turning Points in Worship

One of the most significant turning points in the sanctuary is the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), as described in Leviticus 16. This annual event is a time of national repentance and purification, where the high priest enters the Holy of Holies to make atonement for the sins of the people. The rituals performed on this day symbolize a turning away from sin and a turning towards God, seeking His forgiveness and restoration. The Berean Standard Bible captures this in Leviticus 16:30: "For on this day atonement will be made for you to cleanse you, and you will be clean from all your sins before the LORD."

Turning Points in Revelation

The sanctuary also serves as a place of divine revelation, where God communicates His will and purposes. A notable turning point occurs in the life of the prophet Isaiah. In Isaiah 6, Isaiah receives a vision of the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, in the temple. This encounter marks a turning point in Isaiah's life and ministry, as he is commissioned to be a prophet to the nation. The BSB records Isaiah's response in Isaiah 6:8: "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'"

Turning Points in the New Covenant

The New Testament presents the ultimate turning point in the sanctuary through the person and work of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, Jesus refers to His body as the temple (John 2:19-21), indicating a shift from the physical temple to the spiritual reality of His presence. The crucifixion and resurrection of Christ represent the pivotal turning point in salvation history, where the veil of the temple is torn in two (Matthew 27:51), signifying direct access to God through Christ. Hebrews 9:11-12 emphasizes this transformation: "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."

Personal Turning Points

For believers, the sanctuary represents a place of personal turning points, where individuals encounter God, experience conviction, and receive guidance. The Psalms often reflect this personal aspect, as seen in Psalm 73:16-17 : "When I tried to understand all this, it was troublesome in my sight until I entered God’s sanctuary; then I discerned their end." Here, the psalmist experiences a turning point in understanding and perspective upon entering the sanctuary.

In summary, the sanctuary of God is a central theme in Scripture, representing moments of profound change and transformation. Whether through worship, revelation, or personal encounter, the sanctuary serves as a pivotal place where God's presence brings about turning points in the lives of His people.