How does Mark 15:38 symbolize the removal of barriers between God and man? Mark 15:38 — the Curtain Falls “And the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” (Mark 15:38) Why a Veil Existed • Exodus 26:33 placed a thick curtain between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. • It marked the line between God’s blazing holiness and humanity’s sin. • Only the high priest crossed that line, and only once a year, “never without blood” (Hebrews 9:7). • The veil embodied every barrier separating mankind from God. What Makes the Tear So Significant? • Torn “from top to bottom” — God acted; no human hand could reach the top. • It happened the instant Jesus “breathed His last” (Mark 15:37; Matthew 27:50-51). • Split “in two” — the division is gone for good, not merely damaged. • Opens the way for “confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus” (Hebrews 10:19-20). Barriers That Came Down 1. Sin’s wall: Christ’s atoning death removes guilt (Hebrews 9:12; 2 Corinthians 5:21). 2. Ritual distance: no more animal sacrifices, priests, or annual Day of Atonement (Hebrews 9:24-26). 3. Ethnic and social separation: “He Himself is our peace… has torn down the dividing wall of hostility” (Ephesians 2:13-14). New Privileges Through the Torn Veil • Direct access — “let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22). • Bold confidence in prayer and worship. • Personal indwelling of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). • Ongoing heavenly advocacy by our eternal High Priest (Hebrews 7:24-25). Living in the Freedom Christ Opened • Approach the Father daily; nothing blocks the way. • Lay down lingering guilt; Christ already carried it beyond the veil. • Refuse to rebuild walls Christ demolished—extend His grace to everyone. • Worship with gratitude; the torn curtain proclaims, “The way is open—come.” |
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