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“There was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron.”(verse 5)  24 divisions of priests.830 priests per division.Each division served two weeks out of the year.14 priests from each division served in the temple each year.Likelihood of serving in Temple = 1.6 %

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An opportunity of a lifetime “Both of them were upright in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commandments and regulations blamelessly.” (verse 6)  Can you relate?

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 “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard.” (verse 13) Are you more like Mary or Zechariah?  “Zechariah was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to go into the temple of the Lord and burn incense.” (verse 9)

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1. Gentile Courtyards

Israelite Meaning: Everyone has a place to be with God.

Spiritual Meaning: Are we interested in religion or Christ?

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2. Outer Courtyard

Israelite Meaning: Israelite Women were allowed in part of this section.

Spiritual Meaning: This is where the body is dealt with.

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A. Brazen Altar

Israelite Meaning: Animal sacrifice

Spiritual Meaning: Christ was the ultimate sacrifice. Four Meanings:

1. Forgiveness of past sins; 2. Liberated from the power of sin  3. Old, rebellious nature is put to death (Adam nature) 4. Now possible to totally dedicate yourself to the Lord.

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B. Brazen Laver

Israelite Meaning: Contains water for sacrificial washing of hands and feet of the priests.

Spiritual Meaning: Christ calls us to be sanctified.

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3. Inner Courtyard (“Holy Place”)

Israelite Meaning: Close to the dwelling Place of God. Few enter.

Spiritual Meaning: You are offering God your inner person, your inner holy place – mind, emotions, will.

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A. Table of the Bread of Presence

Israelite Meaning: The 12 loaves of bread are offered to God continually.

Spiritual Meaning: We offer our will to God. lifted up to God in worship.

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B. 7 branch Menorah

Israelite Meaning: Sign of God’s miracles. It’s always lit.

Spiritual Meaning: We let Jesus take control of our minds.

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C. Altar of Incense             Israelite Meaning: Burning the incense, is an offering of the prayers of Israel.            Spiritual Meaning: Our emotions of adoration and love are lifted up to God in worship.

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4. Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies)            Israelite Meaning: This is where God actually dwelled.            Spiritual Meaning: God is with us!

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A. 2 Angels (Cherubim)             Israelite Meaning: They worship God and face each other in fellowship.            Spiritual Meaning: the importance of worship and fellowship.

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B. Mercy Seat           

Israelite Meaning: The throne of God.            Spiritual Meaning: God wants us and our full attention.                  1.Tablets of Stone = Law of God placed on our hearts                 

2.Pot of Manna - fellowship with God                 

3.Rod of Aaron – we are given revelation and authority

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          The Challenge           The Opportunity

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