The concept of a "Turning Point in the Sanctuary" can be understood as a pivotal moment or event within the biblical narrative that signifies a significant change or transformation in the spiritual or physical realm, particularly in relation to the sanctuary or temple. The sanctuary, as described in the Bible, serves as a sacred space where God’s presence dwells and where His people come to worship, offer sacrifices, and seek atonement.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the sanctuary initially refers to the Tabernacle, a portable dwelling place for the divine presence during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Later, it refers to the Temple in Jerusalem, built by Solomon as a permanent house for God. A key turning point in the sanctuary's history is the dedication of Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 8:10-11 , it is recorded, "And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, the cloud filled the house of the LORD, so that the priests could not stand there to minister because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD." This event marks a significant moment where God's glory visibly fills the temple, affirming His presence among His people.

Another turning point occurs during the reign of King Josiah, who initiates a religious reform and restoration of the temple. In 2 Kings 23:21-23 , Josiah commands the observance of the Passover, which had not been celebrated in such a manner since the days of the judges. This revival of worship and adherence to the covenant represents a spiritual renewal and a return to the foundational practices of faith.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of the sanctuary evolves with the coming of Jesus Christ. The turning point here is the transition from the physical temple to the spiritual temple, embodied in Christ Himself and later in the Church. Jesus' cleansing of the temple, as recorded in John 2:14-16 , serves as a critical moment: "In the temple courts He found men selling cattle, sheep, and doves, and money changers seated at their tables. So He made a whip out of cords and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle. He poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those selling doves He said, 'Get these out of here! How dare you turn My Father’s house into a marketplace!'" This act signifies a call to purity and true worship, challenging the corruption that had infiltrated the sacred space.

The ultimate turning point is the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, which transforms the understanding of the sanctuary. At the moment of Jesus' death, the veil of the temple is torn in two, as described in Matthew 27:51 : "At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked and the rocks were split." This event symbolizes the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to God through Christ.

Theological Implications

The turning points in the sanctuary narrative highlight the transition from the old covenant, centered on physical structures and rituals, to the new covenant, focused on spiritual realities and the indwelling presence of God through the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in 1 Corinthians 3:16 : "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" This shift underscores the believer's role as a living sanctuary, called to embody holiness and reflect God's glory in the world.

Throughout Scripture, turning points in the sanctuary narrative serve as reminders of God's desire for a relationship with His people, His call to holiness, and the transformative power of His presence. These moments invite believers to reflect on their own spiritual journey and the ways in which they can become living sanctuaries for God's glory.