Hebrews 10:20 is about Jesus Christ opening a new and living way for believers to draw near to God through his sacrificial death, symbolized by the tearing of the temple veil.
20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh,
Setting the Scene for Hebrews 10:20
In Hebrews chapter 10, the author is emphasizing the significance of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice as the ultimate atonement for sins. The scene described in this chapter is set in the heavenly sanctuary, where Jesus, the High Priest, has entered the Most Holy Place once and for all with His own blood. The author contrasts the temporary sacrifices of the Old Testament with the permanent and perfect sacrifice of Jesus, highlighting the superiority of Christ’s atonement.
In this scene, we see Jesus as the central figure, having offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. Surrounding Him are the heavenly hosts, including angels and saints, who bear witness to the momentous event. The atmosphere is one of awe and reverence, as the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice reverberates throughout the heavenly realms. The scene serves as a powerful reminder of the new covenant established through Christ’s blood, which grants believers access to God’s presence and forgiveness of sins.
The author of Hebrews paints a vivid picture of Jesus as the ultimate High Priest who has secured eternal redemption for all who believe in Him. The scene captures the culmination of God’s redemptive plan, where Jesus, through His sacrificial death, has opened the way for humanity to be reconciled to God. It is a scene of profound spiritual significance, underscoring the central role of Jesus Christ in the salvation of mankind and the establishment of a new covenant based on grace and faith.
What is Hebrews 10:20 about?
Isn’t it amazing to think about the significance of Jesus opening a new way to God through His sacrifice? This verse from Hebrews reminds us of the incredible gift of salvation that Jesus offered through His death on the cross. He paved the way for us to have a direct, personal relationship with God, breaking down barriers and allowing us to approach Him with confidence and assurance.
It’s important to reflect on the immense love and sacrifice that Jesus made for us. Through His death and resurrection, He made it possible for us to have forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Let’s challenge ourselves to fully embrace this new way to God that Jesus has opened for us as we meditate on this verse. Let’s approach God with boldness, gratitude, and faith, knowing that we have been reconciled to Him through the ultimate act of love and grace.
Understanding what Hebrews 10:20 really means
Introduction
In the Book of Hebrews, the author addresses Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and the temptation to revert to Judaism. Hebrews 10:20 holds a pivotal place within the chapter and the book as a whole, emphasizing the unique access believers have to God through Jesus Christ.
Contextual Background
In the Old Covenant, the high priest served as the intermediary between God and the people, offering sacrifices for their sins in the tabernacle or temple. However, with the arrival of Jesus Christ, the New Covenant was established, ushering in a new way of relating to God. Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice, once and for all, to atone for the sins of humanity.
Key Phrases and Their Meanings
“By a new and living way,” signifies the revolutionary change brought about by Jesus’ sacrifice, providing a direct and vibrant connection to God. This contrasts with the old sacrificial system, highlighting Jesus as the exclusive path to God, as He proclaimed in John 14:6. “Opened for us,” underscores the inclusive nature of this new way, granting all believers unrestricted access to the Father through the Spirit, as stated in Ephesians 2:18. “Through the curtain, that is, his body,” symbolizes the tearing of the temple curtain at Jesus’ crucifixion, signifying the removal of barriers between humanity and God. Jesus’ body represents the new curtain, offering believers direct access to the presence of God.
Relevance to People Today
Having direct access to God without the need for intermediaries is a profound privilege for believers today. This access allows for a personal and intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ, enabling individuals to approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, as Hebrews 4:16 encourages. Romans 5:1-2 further reinforces this idea, highlighting that through faith in Jesus, believers have peace with God and stand in His grace.
Anecdote
Consider Sarah, who, after grappling with feelings of unworthiness and distance from God, encountered Hebrews 10:20. The realization that Jesus’ sacrifice granted her direct access to God transformed her faith. Sarah’s newfound understanding led to a deepened prayer life and a sense of peace and purpose in her daily walk with God.
Cross-References
Hebrews 4:16 reminds us to approach God’s throne with confidence, knowing that we have direct access through Jesus. Romans 5:1-2 reinforces the truth that faith in Christ grants us peace with God and access to His grace.
Conclusion
Hebrews 10:20 illuminates the unparalleled access believers have to God through Jesus Christ. Reflect on the significance of this truth in your own life. May this understanding deepen your faith and inspire you to cultivate a closer relationship with God.
How can we draw near to God with confidence?
We can draw near to God with confidence because the verse is telling us that Jesus opened the way for us to enter the presence of God by His death on the cross. Jesus served as the ultimate High Priest and His sacrifice made it possible for us to approach God boldly and without fear. We can now confidently come before God in prayer, worship, and relationship by acknowledging and accepting the sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf, knowing that our sins have been forgiven and we have been made righteous through faith in Christ.
Furthermore, the verse implies that the process of drawing near to God with confidence involves a deep understanding and belief in the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. It is this act of faith and trust in Jesus’ finished work that enables us to approach God boldly, knowing that we are accepted and loved by Him. We can have unwavering confidence in our relationship with God and boldly come before Him in times of need, praise, or seeking guidance and strength by fixing our eyes on Jesus and the assurance of salvation that He has provided.
Application
Fellow believers, let us grasp the life-changing revelation of Hebrews 10:20 – the path to God is now open wide through the sacrifice of Jesus. It demands a resolute faith, a relentless quest for goodness, and a dedicated embodiment of the gospel in our modern lives. Are you prepared to stride boldly into this transformative avenue that God has unveiled for us through His beloved Son?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.