For centuries, only one man could enter the Most Holy Place. And he could only enter once a year. When Jesus tore the veil, He changed everything.
The Most Holy Place
The Most Holy Place wasn’t just a sacred room. It was the epicenter of God’s dwelling on earth. Hidden behind a heavy veil, it was where heaven and earth touched most intimately, above the Ark of the Covenant between the golden cherubim. Here, God’s glory descended in a cloud so intense that even Moses could not enter.
This separation wasn’t cruelty. It was protection. Perfect holiness cannot mingle with sin without consuming it. That’s why the high priest entered only once a year, on the Day of Atonement.
God's instructions were clear.
This is how Aaron is to enter the sanctuary area: with a young bull for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering. He is to put on the sacred linen tunic, with linen undergarments next to his body; he is to tie the linen sash around him and put on the linen turban. These are sacred garments; so he must bathe himself with water before he puts them on. From the Israelite community, he is to take two male goats for a sin offering and a ram for a burnt offering. Aaron is to offer the bull for his own sin offering to make atonement for himself and his household. Then he is to take the two goats and present them before the Lord at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. He is to cast lots for the two goats—one lot for the Lord and the other for the scapegoat. Aaron shall bring the goat whose lot falls to the Lord and sacrifice it for a sin offering. But the goat chosen by lot as the scapegoat shall be presented alive before the Lord to be used for making atonement by sending it into the desert as a scapegoat. (Leviticus 16:3–10)
It wasn’t just ritual. It was survival. The blood created a bridge across the gap between holy God and sinful people.
Then came the cross. When Jesus breathed His last, the veil was torn from top to bottom. The barrier was gone. The blood of Christ accomplished what centuries of animal sacrifices could never do. It opened permanent access to the very presence of God.
But here’s the part many miss. Jesus didn’t just give us access to visit God. He made it possible for God to dwell within us. The same Holy Presence that once filled the Most Holy Place now fills the hearts of those cleansed by His blood. You don’t just approach the throne. You carry it within you.
3 Takeaways for Your Week
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Access is a gift – You don’t earn God’s presence. It’s yours because of Jesus. The same voice that once warned, “Do not come closer,” now says, “Draw near with confidence.” When shame tells you you’re unworthy, or fear says you’re too broken, remember the right to stand in God’s presence is not based on your track record, but on the unshakable record of Jesus. Access is not a reward for the spiritual elite. It’s a gift for every believer.
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Holiness is still the standard – God didn’t lower the bar. Christ met it for you. The same holiness that made Mount Sinai untouchable and the Most Holy Place dangerous hasn’t changed. What’s changed is that Jesus met every requirement of God’s law on our behalf. Holiness is still the atmosphere of God’s presence, but now we enter clothed in the righteousness of Christ. This means grace doesn’t erase God’s standard. It empowers us to live in it. Holiness is not a ladder we climb to reach God. It’s the fruit of His presence already within us.
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You are a living temple – His presence isn’t a place you go. It’s a life you live. For centuries, God's presence dwelt in tents and temples. But how His Spirit makes His home in you. That means you carry His presence into every room, every conversation, and every decision. Church isn't the only "holy place" in your life. Your kitchen, your commute, your workplace, and your neighborhood all become sanctuaries where His glory is revealed. Being a living temple isn't about perfection. It's about surrendering to the Spirit's work so that your life reflects the God who lives within.
Thoughts
This is a short excerpt from a new book I am writing titled Fueled By Fire. I'm not sure this will even make the cut as a chapter. Hopefully, it gave you something to think about.
If you would like a copy of my first book, Fire It Up and Floor It, click the book cover above. If you read it and liked it, refer it to someone else.
Signoff
Have a fantastic week ahead!
Greg
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