What does the "veil" in Exodus 40:28 symbolize in our spiritual lives? Setting the Scene: Exodus 40:28 “Then he hung the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle.” (Exodus 40:28) What the Veil Meant for Israel • A visible boundary between a holy God and a sinful people • Protection from God’s overwhelming glory (Exodus 26:33) • A continual reminder that access to the Most Holy Place was limited to the high priest, once a year, and only with blood (Leviticus 16:2, 34) • A symbol of God’s willingness to dwell among His people, yet on His terms of holiness How the Veil Points to Christ • Hebrews 10:19-20—“Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body.” • Matthew 27:51—“At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” • The torn veil declares Christ’s atoning sacrifice fully satisfied God’s justice, opening direct access to the Father. • Jesus Himself is both High Priest and Veil; through Him alone we draw near (John 14:6). What the Veil Teaches Our Spiritual Lives Today • God’s holiness has never changed; sin still separates. • Christ’s cross removed the barrier permanently—no more yearly sacrifices or human intermediaries. • We now approach confidently, yet reverently, in prayer and worship (Hebrews 4:16). • Any attempt to reach God apart from Christ tries to re-hang the veil that God has already torn. • The veil imagery warns against a casual view of sin while assuring us of complete forgiveness in Jesus. Living on the Right Side of the Veil • Cultivate a heart of thanksgiving for unrestricted access. • Keep short accounts with God—confession keeps fellowship clear (1 John 1:9). • Walk in the Spirit rather than under old covenant shadows (Galatians 5:1). • Reflect unveiled glory by beholding Christ daily in the Word (2 Corinthians 3:18). • Invite others to step through the torn veil by proclaiming the gospel. Key Takeaways • The veil originally proclaimed separation; in Christ it now proclaims access. • God’s holiness and mercy meet perfectly at the torn curtain. • Spiritual vitality flows from living consciously “inside” the Most Holy Place, enjoying unbroken fellowship with the Father through the Son. |