What is the meaning of Hebrews 9:18? That is why - The author has just explained that “where there is a will, the death of the testator must be established” (Hebrews 9:16–17). - Because death is required to activate a covenant, “that is why” sets up the logical conclusion that follows. - Earlier, Hebrews 9:13–14 pointed to sacrificial blood cleansing the flesh and Christ’s blood cleansing the conscience, preparing us to understand this principle. Even the first covenant - The “first covenant” points to the Mosaic covenant God made with Israel at Sinai (Exodus 24:3–8). - By drawing attention to the “first,” the writer shows continuity between Sinai and Calvary: both rely on blood, yet Christ’s sacrifice surpasses the earlier pattern (Hebrews 8:6). - Galatians 3:19 reminds us that the law was “added because of transgressions,” highlighting why a blood-sealed covenant was necessary from the start. Was not put into effect - Exodus 24:8 records Moses sprinkling blood on the people and saying, “This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you.” - Until that moment, Israel had heard God’s words, but the covenant remained only a promise; the blood ceremony enacted it. - Hebrews 9:17 underscores that a covenant is ratified only after death occurs, emphasizing God’s unchanging demand for a life-given seal. Without blood - Leviticus 17:11 declares, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for your souls.” - Hebrews 9:22 echoes, “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” - The Passover lamb’s blood on Israel’s doorposts (Exodus 12:13) and the daily sacrifices (Numbers 28:3-4) reinforce this life-for-life principle that ultimately points to “the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:19). - The verse teaches that forgiveness and covenant fellowship can never be earned by human effort; they come only through divinely provided blood. summary Hebrews 9:18 reminds us that from Sinai onward, God required shed blood to ratify covenant relationship. The phrase “That is why” ties the Old Covenant ritual to the universal truth that death secures a testament. By recalling Exodus 24, the writer shows that even the earliest covenant stood on sacrificial blood, foreshadowing Christ’s once-for-all offering. Our confidence rests not in law-keeping but in the life poured out for us, fulfilling God’s unchanging standard and opening permanent access to Him. |
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