Read Hebrews 10:19-22. What invitation do we have in this passage?
The book of Hebrews argues that Jesus has entered into the heavenly sanctuary and invites us to follow His lead. This idea agrees with the conception introduced before that Jesus is the “captain” and forerunner of believers (Hebrews 2:10; Hebrews 6:19-20; Hebrews 12:2). The “new and living way” is the new covenant that Jesus inaugurated with His sacrifice and ascension.
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The expression “new and living” contrasts with the description of the old covenant as “obsolete and growing old” (Hebrews 8:13, NKJV). It is the new covenant, which has provided forgiveness of sin and has put the law in our hearts, that makes it possible for us to approach God with confidence, not because of ourselves or anything we have done, but only because of what Jesus has done for us by fulfilling all the covenant obligations.
Hebrews noted that the inauguration of the old covenant involved the inauguration of the sanctuary and the consecration of the priests (Hebrews 9:18-21; compare with Exodus 40:1-38; Exodus 19:4-6; Leviticus 8:1-9:24). The purpose of the covenant was to create an intimate relationship between God and His people (Exodus 19:4-6). When Israel accepted this relationship, God immediately commanded that a sanctuary be built so that He could live among them. The inauguration of the sanctuary and God’s presence in the midst of His people was the moment when the covenant between God and Israel was completed.
The same is true of the new covenant. The new covenant also implies the inauguration of Jesus’ priestly ministry in our behalf (Hebrews 5:1-10, Hebrews 7:1-8:13).
Jesus’ ascension before God has inaugurated a new era for the people of God. Zechariah 3:1-10 mentions that Satan was in the presence of God to accuse God’s people, who were represented by the high priest Joshua. This accuser is the same that raised questions about Job’s loyalty to God (Job 1:1-2:13). With the sacrifice of Jesus, however, Satan has been cast out of heaven (Revelation 12:7-12, compare with John 12:31, John 16:11). Now it is Jesus who intercedes for us and through His sacrifice and faithfulness claims salvation for us!
| What accusations could Satan make against you before God, if He were allowed? Though he is a liar, how much would he have to lie about you in order to seek your condemnation? What’s your only hope? |
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