What does Hebrews 9:7 reveal about the limitations of the Old Covenant sacrifices? A one-man, once-a-year entrance Hebrews 9:7: “But only the high priest entered the second room, and only once a year, and never without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance.” • Access was severely restricted—just one representative of the nation. • Frequency was minimal—only on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2, 34). • The curtain stayed closed the other 364 days, signaling that ordinary worshipers remained at a distance (Hebrews 9:8). Blood required every time • “Never without blood” underscores that sin always demanded a life-for-life payment (Leviticus 17:11). • The ritual emphasized guilt rather than removing it permanently (Hebrews 10:3). • Repetitive shedding of animal blood hinted that stronger blood would be needed (Hebrews 9:12). Confessing his own guilt first • The high priest “offered for himself” because he was a sinner, too (Leviticus 16:6). • His personal sacrifice exposed the weakness of a mediator who needed mediation. • Contrast: Jesus “is holy, innocent, undefiled … exalted above the heavens” (Hebrews 7:26). Covering, not cleansing • The offering targeted “sins … committed in ignorance,” leaving willful, high-handed sins outside its scope (Numbers 15:27-31). • Annual repetition proved it brought only a temporary covering, never a final cleansing (Hebrews 10:1-4). • Conscience remained burdened; worshipers longed for inward purity (Hebrews 9:9). Pointing forward to a better covenant • The limitations spotlighted the need for a superior High Priest who could open the way permanently (Hebrews 9:11-12). • Christ entered the true Most Holy Place “once for all” with His own blood, securing eternal redemption. • The torn temple veil at His death (Matthew 27:51) publicly announced that unrestricted access was now granted. |
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