Under the Christian Arrangement

Under the Christian Arrangement

We now live under the Christian arrangement. There is no longer a physical temple in which priests represent all of God’s people or toward which we can turn when we pray to God. Nevertheless, Jehovah still has an arrangement in place for us to approach him. What is it?

In 29 C.E., when Christ was anointed and appointed High Priest, a spiritual temple came into operation. This spiritual temple was the new arrangement for approaching Jehovah in worship on the basis of the propitiatory sacrifice of Jesus Christ.—Hebrews 9:11, 12.

Many features of the temple in Jerusalem well picture the provisions of the spiritual temple, including those related to prayer. (Hebrews 9:1-10) For example, what was represented by the incense that was offered, morning and evening, upon the altar of incense in the Holy compartment of the temple? According to the book of Revelation, "the incense means the prayers of the holy ones." (Revelation 5:8; 8:3, 4) David was inspired to write: "May my prayer be prepared as incense before you." (Psalm 141:2) Thus, in the Christian arrangement, the sweet-smelling incense appropriately represents acceptable prayers and praise to Jehovah.—1 Thessalonians 3:10.

Who may approach God at this spiritual temple? At the physical temple, the priests and Levites were privileged to serve in the inner courtyard, but only priests could enter the Holy. Anointed Christians with the heavenly hopeenjoy a unique spiritual condition foreshadowed by the inner courtyard and the Holy, which enables them to render prayers and praise to God.

What about those with an earthly hope, the "other sheep"? (John 10:16)The prophet Isaiah indicated that people of many nations would come to worship Jehovah "in the final part of the days." (Isaiah 2:2, 3) He also wrote that "foreigners" would join themselves to Jehovah. Indicating his willingness to accept their approach, God said: "I will . . . make them rejoice inside my house of prayer." (Isaiah 56:6, 7) Revelation 7:9-15 gives further details, telling of "a great crowd" from "all nations" who gather in worship and prayer to God "day and night" as they stand in the outer courtyard of the spiritual temple. What a comforting thought that all of God’s servants today can freely approach God with full confidence that they are heard by him!

What Prayers Are Accepted?

The early Christians were people of prayer. Concerning what matters did they pray? Christian elders requested guidance in selecting men for organizational responsibilities. (Acts 1:24, 25; 6:5, 6) Epaphras prayed in behalf of fellow believers. (Colossians 4:12) Members of the congregation in Jerusalem prayed for Peter when he was imprisoned. (Acts 12:5) The early Christians asked God to give them boldness in the face of opposition, saying: "Jehovah, give attention to their threats, and grant your slaves to keep speaking your word with all boldness." (Acts 4:23-30) The disciple James urged Christians to pray to God for wisdom when under trial. (James 1:5) Do you include such matters in your petitions to Jehovah?

God does not accept all prayers. How, then, can we pray with the assurance that our prayers will be accepted? Faithful people to whom God listened in former times approached him in sincerity and with the right heart attitude. They showed faith and backed this up with fine works. We can be assured that Jehovah will listen to those who approach him in like manner today.

There is an additional requirement. The apostle Paul explained this, saying: "Through him we . . . have the approach to the Father by one spirit." To whom was Paul referring when he wrote, "through him"? To Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 2:13, 18) Yes, we can have free approach to the Father only through Jesus.—John 14:6; 15:16; 16:23, 24.