Why is the "Most Holy Place" important for understanding Christ's priestly role? Setting the Scene: The Most Holy Place in Hebrews 9:3 “Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place.” (Hebrews 9:3) • In the tabernacle (and later the temple) this innermost room housed the ark of the covenant, the mercy seat, and the tangible manifestation of God’s glory. • Only the high priest could enter—and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2, 29-34). • The curtain sealed off direct access to God, underscoring His holiness and humanity’s sinfulness. Old Covenant Shadows: What Happened Behind the Curtain • Sacrifice: The high priest carried blood from the sin offering “inside the veil” to sprinkle on the mercy seat (Leviticus 16:15-16). • Representation: One man acted for the entire nation; if the offering was accepted, Israel received atonement for another year. • Limitation: “The Holy Spirit was showing that the way into the Most Holy Place had not yet been disclosed as long as the first tabernacle was still standing.” (Hebrews 9:8) • Reminder of sin: “Such sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins, because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.” (Hebrews 10:3-4) Christ, the True High Priest: From Copy to Reality • Superior sanctuary – “But when Christ appeared as high priest of the good things that have come, He entered through the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made by hands, that is, not of this creation.” (Hebrews 9:11) – The earthly Most Holy Place was a “copy and shadow” (Hebrews 8:5); heaven itself is the true sanctuary. • Superior sacrifice – “He did not enter by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood, and thus secured eternal redemption.” (Hebrews 9:12) – One offering, once for all—no repetition needed (Hebrews 10:12-14). • Ongoing ministry – “Christ did not enter a handmade sanctuary that was a copy of the true one; instead, He entered heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf.” (Hebrews 9:24) – He continually intercedes for believers (Hebrews 7:25). Why the Most Holy Place Matters for Understanding Christ’s Priestly Role 1. It reveals the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God—only blood grants access. 2. It foreshadows Jesus’ unique entrance into heaven with His own blood, achieving eternal redemption. 3. It establishes Him as both sacrifice and priest, fulfilling every requirement once symbolized by the yearly ritual. 4. It anchors the believer’s confidence: • “Since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus… let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith.” (Hebrews 10:19-22) • “We have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God… Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” (Hebrews 4:14-16) 5. It guarantees permanent access—not behind a veil, but before God’s throne—because the curtain was torn at Christ’s death (Matthew 27:51). Living in the Reality • Freedom: No barrier remains; believers enter God’s presence without fear. • Assurance: Christ’s finished work cannot be undone; salvation rests on His blood, not human effort. • Worship: Grasping the cost of access fuels grateful, reverent hearts. |
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