The camp represents a worldly religious system, originally set up by God, making its appeal to the natural man and composed of people outwardly in relationship with God.

1. It was marked by a worldly sanctuary with magnificent vessels and furniture (Heb. 9:1–2).

2. There was an inner shrine to this worldly sanctuary, veiled from the outer and known as “the Holiest of all” (vv. 3–4).

3. In connection with this worldly sanctuary, there existed an order of priests, distinct from the people, who devoted themselves to the service of the sanctuary and over whom there was a High Priest (vv. 6–7).

4. There the people were distinct from the priests and had no direct part in the service of the sanctuary (v. 7).

5. The system, as such, signified that, while it lasted, there was no direct access to God (v. 8).

6. This worldly sanctuary, with its priests and sacrifices, could not give a purged conscience.

7. There is one significant omission: there is no thought of any reproach connected with this worldly religious system.

Such is the description of the camp in its significant features as presented in the Word of God. But the Word also presents Christianity in all its beauty as the exact contrast to the camp. The Christian company is composed of a people, not in mere outward relationship with God by natural birth, but in vital relationship by new birth. Instead of outward worship in magnificent buildings, it introduces living worship in “spirit and truth.” In place of a special class of priests distinct from the laity, all believers are priests with Christ their great High Priest. Additionally, Christianity carries with it the blessing of a purged conscience and direct access to God. Moreover, since it opens heaven to the simplest believer, it entails on earth the reproach of Christ.