QT 7/1/2026 Heb 9:1-8, A much better belief

Hebrews 8:1–6 (ESV) —

1 Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, 2 a minister in the holy places, in the true tent that the Lord set up, not man. 3 For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; thus it is necessary for this priest also to have something to offer. 4 Now if he were on earth, he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer gifts according to the law. 5 They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, “See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.” 6 But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises.

 

NOTE: There is a lot in this passage. The emphasis seems to be on where Jesus is as High Priest. First, he sits on the right hand of the throne of God, making him also royalty. Secondly, he ministers in the true tent (tabernacle) that the Lord set up, not the one on earth which is only a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. Third, it does not say it here, but it has been said, Jesus offered up his perfect life, God-man, as a substitutionary payment for our sins. Jesus did it once, not repeatedly like the earthly high priests, because Jesus' sacrifice was so much greater than any other possible offering. Consequently, Jesus' ministry is "much more excellent" than the old, and it is built upon better promises. Why? Nothing is temporary, but Jesus' work is complete and permanent. This new covenant makes everything permanent. At conversion, we are justified. As we live, indwelt by the Holy Spirit, we are in the process of being sanctified, made more like Christ. And at the rapture, we will be given new bodies and be like Christ, in terms of a sinless nature. So there is great hope in this covenant. In fact, one could say that this was the hope of the Old Covenant, a Messiah that would save them from their sins and the oppression of the enemy Satan.

 

PONDER:

1. Are we still clinging to religion and good works? Why?
2. There is no other salvation on earth but belief in Jesus' work on the  cross -- where are you placing your hope?

 

PRAYER: Father, I know that I am far from perfect and to fall into sin far too often. I see you changing me and it is dramatic, but also sometimes discouraging because I still fail. Be gracious and merciful to me, a sinner. Help me to change and honor you.