Three Steps in the Atonement

By studying the plan of salvation as illustrated in the Old Testament sanctuary services, we learn much about the great work of atonement.

The word “atonement,” or at-one-ment, refers to the process whereby man is reconciled to God. A study of the sanctuary reveals three steps in the process: sacrifice, intercession, and cleansing.

Sacrifice

This step was symbolized in the Old Testament by the daily slaying of animals. A perfect lamb without blemish was required, and it was sacrificed in the courtyard of the sanctuary. Every drop of blood that was shed in those rituals pointed to the sacrifice of Jesus for lost mankind. His death paid the full price for our redemption.

Intercession

This step was symbolized by the daily duties performed by the priests in the Holy Place, or first apartment of the sanctuary. Incense was continually offered before God, mingled with the prayers of the saints. This represented Christ’s priestly intercession for His people, which He began after His ascension to heaven. Through Christ’s first apartment ministry the sinner’s guilt is pardoned, and Christ’s righteousness is imparted to His people.

Cleansing

The third step was illustrated once each year in the Old Testament ceremonies. The tenth day of the seventh month was called the Day of Atonement. It was the day on which the sanctuary was cleansed. This was considered the most solemn and significant event of the year. On that day the whole congregation appeared before the Lord that they might be made “at one” with Him. Sins that had been brought to the sanctuary throughout the year were figuratively removed from it on that day. But those who failed to humble themselves before God were cut off from the people.

On that day the high priest alone appeared before God behind the veil of the Most Holy Place. He took with him the blood of a goat and a censer of coals from the altar of incense. This service represented the final phase of Christ’s work in the heavenly sanctuary, performed in “the time of the end.” The work of atonement is not complete until the sanctuary is thus cleansed.

Bible references to the Old Testament Day of Atonement include Leviticus 16 and Leviticus 23:27-32. Information on the end-time cleansing of the sanctuary is found in Daniel 8:14; Malachi 3:1-5; and Hebrews 8 and 9.