How does Hebrews 10:20 connect to Jesus' role as our High Priest? The Old Curtain and the Closed Door • Under the Law, only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year (Leviticus 16:2, 34). • The heavy veil symbolized both God’s holiness and humanity’s separation from Him (Exodus 26:33). • Every Israelite knew: without a priest and a sacrifice, direct access was impossible. Jesus Tears the Veil • Hebrews 10:20: “by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body.” • When Jesus died, “the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:51)—God’s decisive sign that access was now open. • The “curtain” is identified as Christ’s own flesh. His crucified body replaces the physical veil; His death literally removes the barrier. A New and Living Way • New—never available under the old covenant. • Living—because the risen Christ remains forever, this way never closes (Revelation 1:18). • Unlike dead animals offered yearly, Jesus offers Himself “once for all” (Hebrews 7:27). High Priest Forever • Hebrews 10:21 links directly: “and since we have a great priest over the house of God.” • Jesus fulfills every high-priestly duty: – Enters the true sanctuary “not made by human hands” (Hebrews 9:24). – Presents His own blood, securing eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:12). – Lives forever to intercede (Hebrews 7:25). • Because He is both Priest and sacrifice, He escorts believers through the opened curtain, not merely pointing the way but personally bringing them in (Hebrews 6:19-20). Practical Implications for Us • Confidence: “Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22). • Cleansed consciences: His blood purifies us “from dead works to serve the living God” (Hebrews 9:14). • Ongoing help: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy” (Hebrews 4:16). • Unshakable hope: the opened curtain is “an anchor for the soul, firm and secure” (Hebrews 6:19). Supporting Scriptures • John 14:6 — “I am the way… No one comes to the Father except through Me.” • 1 Peter 3:18 — “Christ… suffered once for sins… to bring you to God.” • Isaiah 25:7 — He destroys “the shroud that enfolds all peoples.” • Revelation 5:9 — “You were slain, and with Your blood You purchased for God persons from every tribe.” Because Hebrews 10:20 identifies Christ’s crucified body as the torn curtain, His role as our High Priest is inseparable from His sacrifice: He opens the way, ushers us in, and lives to keep us there. |
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