How does Hebrews 9:15 explain Jesus as the mediator of a new covenant? “Therefore Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, now that He has died to redeem them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.” Mediator—The Go-Between • A mediator stands between two parties to bring reconciliation (1 Timothy 2:5). • Jesus bridges the gap separating humanity from God, fulfilling every requirement on both sides. Why a New Covenant Was Needed • The first covenant (the Law) exposed sin but could not remove it (Hebrews 10:1-4). • Animal sacrifices pointed forward to the true, final sacrifice (Hebrews 9:12). • Jeremiah 31:31-34 foretold a better covenant with God’s law written on hearts, not stone tablets. His Death Secures Redemption • “He has died to redeem them” — redemption requires a life given in place of the guilty (Leviticus 17:11). • Christ’s blood satisfies divine justice once for all (Hebrews 9:26-28; 1 Peter 1:18-19). • Past, present, and future believers are cleansed, including those under the first covenant who trusted God’s promise (Romans 3:25). Those Who Are Called • Refers to people God draws to Himself in salvation (Romans 8:30). • Includes Jews and Gentiles alike (Romans 1:16; Ephesians 2:13-16). The Promised Eternal Inheritance • Not merely land or earthly blessing, but everlasting life with God (1 Peter 1:3-4). • Guaranteed by Christ’s resurrection and sealed by the Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14). • Because the will-maker has died, the will now goes into effect (Hebrews 9:16-17). Features of the New Covenant • Forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 10:17). • Inner transformation by the Spirit (Ezekiel 36:26-27). • Direct access to God without earthly priests (Hebrews 4:14-16). • One perfect sacrifice, never to be repeated (Hebrews 10:12-14). Connecting Verses • Luke 22:20 — “This cup is the new covenant in My blood.” • Hebrews 8:6 — Jesus is mediator of a better covenant established on better promises. • Hebrews 12:24 — We have come to “Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant.” • Galatians 3:13 — Christ became a curse for us to redeem us from the Law’s curse. Takeaway Because Jesus personally paid the ransom for sin, He now mediates a covenant that guarantees total forgiveness, inward renewal, and an unshakable, eternal inheritance for everyone God calls. Trusting Him means standing on promises already secured by His own priceless blood. |
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