How does this verse connect to the New Testament understanding of Christ's priesthood? Setting the Scene in Exodus 28:35 “Aaron must wear it when ministering, so that the sound of the bells will be heard when he enters and leaves the Holy Place before the LORD, so that he will not die.” (Exodus 28:35) Why the Bells Mattered for Aaron • Audible testimony that Israel’s representative was accepted in God’s presence • Continuous reminder that blood‐covered ministry was happening on their behalf • Protection for the high priest—silence meant judgment and death • Assurance for the people outside; the bells preached, “Your mediator still lives and serves” Tracing the Theme to Christ’s Priesthood • Christ fulfills every element of the high-priestly office once foreshadowed by Aaron • His very person—sinless and eternal—guarantees uninterrupted acceptance (Hebrews 7:24) • The “sound” of His finished work echoes perpetually in heaven’s courts, so judgment cannot touch Him—or those in Him (Romans 8:34) • Whereas Aaron’s bells announced repeated entry, Christ’s single entry “once for all” renders further sacrifice unnecessary (Hebrews 9:12) Echoes in the New Testament Scriptures • Hebrews 4:14 – “Therefore, since we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess.” • Hebrews 7:25 – “Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them.” • Hebrews 9:24 – “For Christ did not enter a man-made sanctuary… He entered heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf.” • Revelation 1:13 – John sees the risen Lord “clothed in a robe reaching down to His feet and with a golden sash around His chest,” priestly imagery showing His continuing ministry From Shadow to Substance Bells on Aaron’s hem ➔ Ever-living voice of the Son in heaven Repeated entrances ➔ One decisive, eternal entrance Risk of death ➔ Indestructible life (Hebrews 7:16) People waiting outside ➔ Believers invited inside the veil (Hebrews 10:19-22) Living Confidence Today Because our High Priest is always heard before the Father, believers live with: • Bold access—“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16) • Settled security—no fear of silence from heaven, for Christ’s intercession never pauses • Joyful witness—the gospel now rings out on earth, just as the bells once rang in the Holy Place |
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