What does "before the veil" signify about access to God in Exodus 30:6? Text in View “Place the altar in front of the veil that is before the ark of the testimony— before the mercy seat that is over the testimony—where I will meet with you.” (Exodus 30:6) What the Veil Was - A heavy embroidered curtain (Exodus 26:31–33) marking the boundary between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. - Behind it rested the ark and the visible manifestation of God’s glory. - Only the high priest could go beyond it, and then only once a year, on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2, 29–34). Why “Before the Veil” Matters - Boundary line: The altar of incense stood as close to God’s throne as any daily ministry could come without crossing the veil. - Unbroken routine: Priests tended the incense morning and evening (Exodus 30:7–8), yet the veil remained, reminding them—even at their nearest point—of the remaining separation. - Fragrant witness: Rising incense symbolized prayers ascending toward God (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3–4). The position “before the veil” showed that intercession could approach, but not yet penetrate, God’s immediate presence. Lessons on Access to God in the Old Covenant • Nearness and distance coexist – God welcomed daily fellowship, yet upheld His holiness (Isaiah 6:1–5). • Mediation is necessary – Priests represented the people; blood, incense, and ceremony stood between sinners and the Holy One (Hebrews 9:6–7). • Anticipation of something better – Every glance at the veil preached, “Your way is not yet fully open” (Hebrews 9:8). Fulfillment in Christ • Veil torn – “Suddenly the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:51). God removed the barrier Himself. • Confident entrance – “Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus… let us draw near” (Hebrews 10:19–22). • One Mediator – “For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit” (Ephesians 2:18). Living Response Because the veil has been taken away, believers now enjoy continual, unhindered access to the Father. Worship, prayer, and every act of service flow not from outside a barrier but from within His very presence (John 17:24; Hebrews 4:16). |
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