Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins. Hebrews 9:22
I continue my study of Hebrews, assisted by the commentary Christ Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in Hebrews. My focus this morning is Hebrews 9:11-22, specifically looking at the fourth division covering 9:16-22, which the commentary entitles "The Better Blood of the New Covenant." Here, the commentary seeks for believers to recognize the importance of not just what Christ did through His death on the cross but also how He did it. The commentary first describes how the author of Hebrews uses the analogy of a last will and testament and how it only takes effect upon someone's death. It then moves to how in both the Old and New Testaments, the shedding of blood inaugurates the old and new covenants. We are referred to Leviticus 17:11, where blood is described as key to life. Shed blood, then, is essential as a sacrifice to atone for sin - God's wrath must be satisfied. With Christ's blood, we have the new covenant and a direct path to God for not just forgiveness of sin, but also eternal life - praise Jesus!
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who shed His blood for me - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such grace and gift - the greatest gift of all time. Yet my sin is great...and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
