What is the meaning of Hebrews 13:10? We have an altar Hebrews 13:10 begins, “We have an altar…” • The writer speaks to believers who have trusted Christ; the “we” points to the redeemed community (1 Peter 2:9–10, 1 Corinthians 1:2). • This altar is not a physical structure in Jerusalem but the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus at Calvary (Hebrews 10:12–14, Hebrews 9:11–12). • At this altar our sins are removed, our consciences cleansed, and our access to God secured (Hebrews 10:19–22, Ephesians 2:13). • Because the altar is Christ Himself, it cannot be added to, repeated, or replaced (Acts 4:12, John 14:6). Those who serve at the tabernacle “…from which those who serve at the tabernacle…” • “Those who serve” refers to priests tied to the old covenant system—daily sacrifices, ritual washings, and dietary laws (Exodus 29:38–42, Numbers 18:1–7). • Their ministry was designed to be temporary and preparatory, foreshadowing the perfect Priest and sacrifice to come (Hebrews 8:3–5, Galatians 3:24). • Persisting in the tabernacle service after Christ’s cross shows a refusal to embrace the fulfillment of all those symbols (Hebrews 10:1, Colossians 2:16–17). Have no right to eat “…have no right to eat.” • Under the old covenant, priests ate portions of certain sacrifices (Leviticus 6:26, 7:6). Participation signified covenant fellowship. • Because Jesus’ sacrifice ends that system, anyone clinging to the tabernacle service forfeits the privilege of sharing in Christ’s altar—His saving grace (John 6:53–58, Hebrews 9:26). • The “right” is granted solely through faith in the finished work of the Son (Romans 5:1–2, Hebrews 4:14–16). No religious pedigree or ritual can qualify a person (Philippians 3:3–9). • The verse underscores an either-or: trust the obsolete shadows or come to the living altar; both cannot be mixed (Hebrews 13:9, Acts 15:10–11). summary Hebrews 13:10 contrasts two ways of approach to God. Believers possess a living altar—Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice. Those who stay with the tabernacle system, rejecting Christ’s fulfillment, are barred from its benefits. The verse calls every reader to leave the shadows and feed on the grace found only at the cross. |
    |