Scripture to Read: Hebrews 9:8-10
A good reminder today is that the book
of Hebrews was first written to Jewish Christians who
were considering going back to their old way of life,
under the Levitical priestly system of worship. We need
this reminder because God, in Hebrews 9:8-10, is reminding
these Jewish Christians of some important
facts to consider. First, God the Spirit lets it be known
that the only way into the true Holy of Holies, and the
presence of God the Father, is through a relationship
with Christ alone. If these Jewish Christians chose to
allow the Levitical system of worship to remain a recognized
practice of worship, then they would be closing
off what the Holy Spirit had opened up to them through
Christ. Why? Because the earthly tabernacle is merely
a symbol to point people to the true tabernacle where
God the Father dwells. Also, ALL of the gifts, offerings,
and sacrifices that are offered to God in the earthly
tabernacle are completely incapable of making anyone
perfect or renewing anyone’s soul who truly desire to
worship God the Father. God makes it clear, in Hebrews
9:10, that the gifts, sacrifices, offerings, and ceremonies
only deal with external things like ceremonial washings
and such but none of these things can cleanse someone
from sin. That is why in the Old Testament it says that
God overlooked or covered their sin. Christ’s blood is
the only blood that cleanses ALL sin. That is why Christ
makes perfect our new covenant with God the Father.
Challenge & Application
1. How do you sometimes fall into the trap of thinking
you have to do something to earn the right to come
into God’s presence?
2. What did you learn today about Christ’s perfect sacrifice?
Who will you share this Good News with this
week?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!