Opening the Curtain

   Well into the first century A.D., Jewish Greek-speaking Christians were having a hard time. They believed, but were being persecuted.

   The unknown writer of Hebrews wrote to strengthen their faith by explaining how redemption in Christ fulfilled provisions of the old covenant. 

   Today, Christians can better appreciate God’s plan (before creation) of salvation, by knowing the first covenant. 

   In chapter 9, the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. The first room of the tabernacle held a lampstand, table and consecrated bread. This was called the Holy Place.

   Behind a large curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place, with a golden altar of incense, and the gold-covered ark of the covenant. The ark contained a gold jar of manna, Aaron’s staff that had budded, and stone tablets (Ten Commandments) of the covenant. Above the ark were the cherubim of the Glory, over the atonement cover. vv. 1-5

   Priests managed their ministry in the first/outer room, but only the high priest entered the inner room, and only once a year. And never without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins of the people. vv. 6-8

   The gifts and sacrifices were not able to clear the conscience of the worshiper. They were food and drink, and various ceremonial washings – external regulations applying for a time - to prepare for Christ. vv. 9-10 

   When Jesus breathed his last, God tore open the curtain from top to bottom, signaling access to his presence - provided by the voluntary blood of the Savior, not involuntary blood of calves, goats and lambs.  

   But Israel will rise again.