DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF SANCTUARY KEEPERS

Title: DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF SANCTUARY KEEPERS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 84:10
"For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness."

Supporting Texts:
Exodus 25:8
1 Corinthians 14:40
2 Chronicles 29:15-16
Psalm 122:1
Hebrews 10:25

INTRODUCTION:
The sanctuary is a sacred space dedicated to worship and fellowship with God. Sanctuary keepers, often referred to as custodians of the church, play a crucial role in maintaining the house of God as a place of order, beauty, and reverence. Their duties go beyond cleaning; they are partakers in God’s service, ensuring that the church is conducive for worship and ministry. This study explores their roles and how their faithfulness impacts the spiritual and physical atmosphere of the church.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF SANCTUARY KEEPERS

Sanctuary keepers are custodians of God's house, responsible for its upkeep and sanctity.

a) Guarding the Sanctity of the Church: Ensuring the church remains a holy and reverent space (Exodus 25:8).

b) Maintaining Cleanliness: Cleaning and organising the church environment to reflect God's glory (1 Corinthians 14:40).

c) Preparing the Sanctuary for Worship: Arranging seats, setting up communion items, and ensuring everything is ready for services (2 Chronicles 29:15).

d) Supporting Other Ministries: Assisting ushers, choir, and other ministries by creating a functional space for their activities (Romans 12:7).

e) Biblical Example: The Levites were responsible for the upkeep of the tabernacle and temple (Numbers 3:6-9).

2. SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF SANCTUARY KEEPERS' DUTIES

Sanctuary keepers contribute to the spiritual atmosphere of the church.

a) Honouring God’s Presence: Their work reflects reverence for God and His sanctuary (Psalm 26:8).

b) Creating an Atmosphere for Worship: A clean and orderly environment enhances the congregation’s focus on God (Psalm 122:1).

c) Demonstrating Faithfulness in Service: Their commitment exemplifies servanthood and humility (1 Corinthians 4:2).

d) Encouraging Congregational Participation: A well-maintained sanctuary attracts more people to worship (Isaiah 56:7).

e) Biblical Example: Nehemiah’s dedication to restoring the temple reflected his passion for God’s house (Nehemiah 2:17-18).

3. QUALITIES OF AN EFFECTIVE SANCTUARY KEEPER

Sanctuary keepers require specific qualities to fulfil their roles effectively.

a) Reverence for God: A deep respect for God’s house and His presence (Psalm 84:1-2).

b) Diligence and Commitment: Faithfulness in fulfilling their duties without supervision (Proverbs 22:29).

c) Team Spirit: Working harmoniously with other church workers and ministries (1 Corinthians 12:12).

d) Prayerfulness: Covering their work and the church in prayer for God’s blessings and protection (Colossians 4:2).

e) Biblical Example: The women who cared for Jesus’ needs demonstrated faithfulness in their service (Luke 8:2-3).

4. CHALLENGES SANCTUARY KEEPERS MAY FACE

Sanctuary keepers encounter unique challenges that require perseverance and divine grace.

a) Lack of Recognition: Their work is often behind the scenes and may go unnoticed (Matthew 6:4).

b) Physical Fatigue: The demanding nature of cleaning and preparation can be exhausting (Isaiah 40:29-31).

c) Limited Resources: Inadequate cleaning materials or equipment can hinder their work (Philippians 4:19).

d) Spiritual Attacks: Their service to God’s house can make them targets for discouragement (Ephesians 6:12).

e) Biblical Example: Martha faced the challenge of balancing service and spiritual priorities (Luke 10:40-42).

5. REWARDS OF FAITHFUL SERVICE AS A SANCTUARY KEEPER

God honours the diligent service of sanctuary keepers in both temporal and eternal ways.

a) Blessings of God’s Presence: Their service draws them closer to God (Psalm 65:4).

b) Joy in Serving God: They experience fulfilment in knowing they are serving the Lord (Psalm 100:2).

c) Impacting Lives Through Service: Their work contributes to the spiritual growth of others (Ephesians 4:12).

d) Eternal Rewards in Heaven: Faithful service will be rewarded by God (Colossians 3:23-24).

e) Biblical Example: Obed-Edom’s faithfulness in caring for the Ark brought blessings to his household (2 Samuel 6:11).

CONCLUSION:
Sanctuary keepers are vital to the church's function and atmosphere. Their diligence, reverence, and commitment ensure that God’s house is a place of beauty, order, and holiness. Though their work is often unseen, God sees and rewards their faithfulness. Sanctuary keeping is not just a duty but a ministry that honours God and impacts His people.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, grant sanctuary keepers the strength to serve with diligence and joy.

2. Father, bless their efforts and reward their faithfulness in Your house.

3. Lord, provide all the resources needed for their duties.

4. Father, protect them from physical fatigue and spiritual discouragement.

5. Lord, let their service bring glory to Your name and bless the congregation.

6. Father, fill sanctuary keepers with a deep reverence for Your presence.

7. Lord, raise more committed workers for this ministry.

8. Father, let every effort of sanctuary keepers lead to spiritual growth in the church.

9. Lord, bless their households as they serve Your house.

10. Father, grant them eternal rewards for their faithfulness.