Friday 21 March 2008
- Bible Book:
- Hebrews
"Therefore, my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain (that is through his flesh), and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water". (v.19-22)
Background
I always find the letter to the Hebrews a little difficultbecause so much of its imagery is founded in the experience of theJewish sacrificial system of the time. This passage is a goodexample of this.
The sanctuary of the Temple in Jerusalem (known as the Holy ofHolies) was the place where Jews believed it was possible to getclosest to God. Hence, only the High Priest could enter to offersacrifice on behalf of the people. A large curtain was hung toseparate the sanctuary from the rest of the Temple precincts and toemphasise its holiness.
Nobody is sure who the writer of the Letter to the Hebrews was, buthe clearly saw the death of Jesus as the sacrifice to end allsacrifices. By his death, specially remembered on Good Friday,Jesus opened the curtain to the sanctuary to provide a 'new andliving way' for believers to relate to God. Jesus is depicted asboth the High Priest and the sacrifice who opened the way to Godfor others.
Have a look at
The writer is clear that the death of Jesus makes the believer'clean' and 'pure' and that this marks the beginning of a new wayof living - no more wilful sinning. This new way is about the waywe live together - encouraging love and good deeds.
This is why a day in which Jesus was so dreadfully done to death iscalled 'Good Friday'.
To Ponder
What is the best way for followers of Christ tomeet together and encourage one another to 'love and gooddeeds'?
In what ways could you practically offer 'loveand good deeds' in your community or place of work?