The Cross and Its Shadow by Stephen N. Haskell is a fascinating book that explores how the Old Testament sanctuary connects to Jesus Christ’s life and sacrifice. Written over a century ago, this book has become a favorite among Christians who want to understand how the sanctuary services in the Old Testament point forward to the New Testament, especially to Jesus. Haskell shows that each part of the sanctuary—the place where the Israelites worshipped—has a special meaning that helps us understand God’s plan for salvation.
One of the most interesting aspects of The Cross and Its Shadow is its focus on symbolism. The sanctuary wasn’t just a place for worship; it was designed with specific objects and ceremonies that represented important ideas. For example, there was an altar where sacrifices were made, symbolizing Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross. The Ark of the Covenant, which held the Ten Commandments, represented God’s promises. The high priest, who served in the sanctuary, represented Jesus’ role as a mediator between God and humanity. Haskell explains each of these symbols, helping readers see how God’s plan for salvation was already present in the Old Testament, long before Jesus came to earth.
Another reason The Cross and Its Shadow is so powerful is that it places Jesus at the center of the sanctuary services. Haskell shows how every sacrifice and ceremony in the sanctuary points to Jesus, making the book a deeply meaningful experience for readers who want to strengthen their faith.
Haskell’s book is also a great educational resource, even for those who aren’t experts on the Bible. His explanations are clear, detailed, and easy to follow. By using a lot of Scripture references, Haskell shows readers how the sanctuary is linked to other parts of the Bible, helping them understand the Bible as a whole. Each chapter is like a mini-tour through the sanctuary, with Haskell acting as a guide, explaining each part and its meaning. This approach makes The Cross and Its Shadow especially engaging.
For readers interested in prophecy, the book is especially compelling. Throughout the book, Haskell shows that the sanctuary and its services are like a “prophecy in action” with messages for people today. Throughout the book, Haskell shows that the sanctuary’s lessons aren’t just about the past; they also point to future events and God’s promises yet to be fulfilled.
The Cross and Its Shadow reveals the beauty and depth of the sanctuary’s symbolism and shows how God’s love is present in every part of the Bible. By helping readers see Jesus in every detail of the sanctuary, Haskell not only teaches but also inspires. He reminds us that God’s plan for salvation is carefully designed, and each part of the sanctuary helps us understand that plan a little better.
For anyone interested in understanding the connection between the Old and New Testaments, The Cross and Its Shadow is a particularly rewarding read. It explains complex ideas in a way that’s easy to understand and makes the story of Jesus even more meaningful. Whether you’re new to the Bible or already familiar with it, this book offers a unique look at the story of redemption—a story that’s all about a loving God reaching out to humanity. Through Haskell’s Bible-based insights, we see that every detail, every symbol, and every story leads us closer to understanding the significance of the cross.
