Hebrews 9:1-7 Bible Teaching

Hebrews 9:7: Old Covenant Symbols, New Covenant Realities

In the exploration of Hebrews 9:7, we delve into the intricate comparison between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant in Christ. The passage begins by describing the first covenant, which included specific ordinances of divine service and a worldly sanctuary. This sanctuary, a tabernacle, was meticulously constructed with elements like the candlestick, the table, and the shewbread, all of which held significant religious symbolism.

The tabernacle was divided into two main areas: the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies. The Holy Place contained sacred items, but it was the Holy of Holies that held the most profound significance, as it was where the high priest entered once a year on the Day of Atonement. This entry was not without blood, which was offered for the high priest’s sins and the errors of the people.

The writer of Hebrews emphasizes the temporary nature of these physical elements, suggesting that they were mere shadows of the true heavenly realities. The focus shifts from the material to the spiritual, highlighting the transition from the old ways to the new, where Christ’s sacrifice offers a permanent atonement for sins.

This passage challenges us to reflect on the nature of worship and the significance we place on physical spaces and objects. It encourages a move towards a deeper, more spiritual understanding of faith, where the emphasis is on the eternal and the divine presence within us, rather than on earthly symbols and traditions. As we grow in our relationship with God through Christ, we are called to leave behind the old and embrace the new, continually seeking a more profound spiritual connection.