How does Hebrews 9:18 emphasize the necessity of blood in covenant establishment? The Text at a Glance “Therefore even the first covenant was not inaugurated without blood.” — Hebrews 9:18 Why Blood? God’s Built-In Sign of Seriousness • Blood represents life itself (Leviticus 17:11). • Shedding it declares, “May my life be forfeit if this covenant is broken.” • God required a tangible, vivid picture so people would grasp the cost of sin and the solemnity of His promises. Looking Back: The Mosaic Covenant (Exodus 24:3-8) • Moses read the Law, and the people pledged obedience. • He sprinkled half the blood on the altar (signifying God) and half on the people (signifying their participation). • Hebrews 9:18 reminds readers that this well-known event set the precedent: no covenant with God ever takes effect without blood. Looking Forward: The New Covenant (Hebrews 9:11-14, 22; Matthew 26:28) • Animal blood could symbolize forgiveness, but only Christ’s blood achieves it fully. • “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). • Jesus declared, “This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28). • The pattern established in Exodus is completed at the cross—real, cleansing, final. Connecting the Dots Across Scripture • Genesis 15:9-18 — God alone passes between the divided animals, foreshadowing that He Himself will bear the covenant’s penalty. • Isaiah 53:5 — “He was pierced for our transgressions,” fulfilling the requirement indicated by previous covenants. • Revelation 1:5 — Jesus “has freed us from our sins by His blood,” showing the everlasting covenant sealed once for all. Implications for Believers Today • Assurance: Our relationship with God rests not on our performance but on blood already shed. • Reverence: Worship gains depth when we remember the life-price paid. • Gratitude: Ongoing thanksgiving flows from recognizing the covenant’s cost. |
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