44 Days Through the New Testament – Day 36

Hebrews 7-9

I love the picture of Jesus ever living to intercede on our behalf.

…[Jesus] is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.

Hebrews 7:25, ESV

How cool is it that Jesus is even now talking to the Father on our behalf, and sending the Holy Spirit to live within us to lead, guide, and direct our steps.

Hebrews 10-12

I once visited a small Hebrew museum in Israel. It was not far from the Wailing Wall near the Temple Mount, in Jerusalem. The curators of the museum had some pretty amazing artifacts. It was an interesting and enjoyable visit, but the one thing that stood out to me from the visit was our talk with the tour guide about the sacrificial system of the Old Testament.

The guide had explained in great detail how the system worked, and she even pointed out some artifacts they had that would be used in the ceremonies. Our group was quite fascinated, and one of us asked a simple question: “Why don’t Jews still use that sacrificial system today?”

Her answer was quite amazing: “We just don’t.”

Hmm. That’s it. They just don’t. No explanation. No definitive moment in time that put a stop to the system in their minds. They just don’t do it anymore.

As followers of Christ, we have a very different reason for why we no longer slaughter animals as atonement for our sins.

… when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet. For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.

Hebrews 10:12–14, ESV

Praise God that we don’t have to offer animal sacrifices any longer. Jesus died once for all, and His sacrifice was more than sufficient for our sins. What a Glorious Savior!