Question:
Where in the Scriptures is there evidence that the Israelites understood their sacrifices to be typical rather than real? I can’t find any indication that even Moses recognized them as typical.
Answer:
Take a moment to reflect on the powerful insights found in the eighth, ninth, and tenth chapters of Hebrews, alongside Colossians 2:16-17. Paul beautifully illustrates how the old covenant practices, including those related to meats, drinks, sabbaths, and new moons, serve as a “shadow of things to come,” with Christ being the true substance at the center of it all. These chapters really show that the activities of the earthly sanctuary were just reflections of the divine realities in heaven, with Christ serving as our High Priest and embodying the “good things to come.” Hebrews 9:8 suggests that people back then might not have fully understood the gospel significance woven into these ceremonies, but we are truly blessed to grasp these truths with even greater clarity today.
When Moses received instructions for building the earthly sanctuary that was central to the Old Covenant, he was told to “make them after their pattern, which was showed thee in the mount” (Exodus 25:40). This emphasizes an important truth: the Israelites recognized the deep typological meaning behind their services, all pointing toward the Redeemer who was to come.
Consider the prophet Simeon, who eagerly awaited Christ’s first advent, as noted in Luke 2:25 and beyond. Alongside him, Anna the prophetess proclaimed Christ to all who were longing for redemption in Jerusalem (Luke 2:38). Those with spiritually discerning hearts were genuinely anticipating Christ’s coming. The prophecies of the time fueled their hope and were intricately tied to the teachings surrounding the sanctuary service.
Even David, while in the sanctuary, gained insight regarding the fate of the wicked (Psalm 73:17). Other verses, like Psalm 20:2, 63:2, and 68:24, show that there was a special enlightenment accessible through the sanctuary service during the old covenant.
Embracing these teachings not only deepens our understanding but also ignites our enthusiasm for the hope we have in Christ!
