Isaiah 44-45, Proverbs 26:17-28, Luke 23:32-37, Hebrews 10:1-18

Hebrews 10:1-18:

The author of Hebrews is continuing his argument that Christ’s sacrifice for sins is “once for all.” The law, the Old Testament covenant, was only a shadow of that which was to come. The reality is all found in Christ. Sacrifices in the Old Testament are merely an annual reminder of sins. A right thinking, godly Jew in the old covenant must have thought – and as the prophets testify, frequently did think – there must be more to this sacrifice than mere blood of goats and animals. And when Christ came, he was indeed the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

So:

“We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”

What significance does this argument have for us today? Much in every way! First, we can be sure that there is no need to return to the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. Second, we can be sure that if we trust in Christ, our sins are fully dealt with, over and done with, “once for all.” Third, we can therefore be sure that there is no point, no need, and it would be utterly foolish to even consider, going after some other “god” or ideology rather than staying faithful to Christ. Fourth, we can learn from the author of Hebrews his high view of the Bible – including the Old Testament – and how it all points to Christ.