Hebrews 10:19

Hebrews 10:19

Confidence to enter the Most Holy Place

This verse has been, and always will be, an outrage so far as orthodox Judaism is concerned! The Most Holy Place was, of course, the innermost chamber of the Tabernacle / Temple. This was holy ground like no other, it was the place where the glory of God was contained, it was so holy and sacred that it was “off limits” for all ordinary people, even the priesthood. The highest honour amongst the ancient Jews was the role of High Priest and this man alone could enter the Most Holy Place but only once per year. His role, on what was called the Day of Atonement, was to make reparation, with blood, for the sins of the people and, as we know, only their unintentional sins. This ceremony was watched by the gathered crowds and the entire priesthood; they waited with bated breath to see if the anointed Priest would emerge unscathed from his meeting with the Lord God. Once the day and its ceremonies were completed, no one was allowed access to this inner chamber, the heavy curtain was closed and not opened again for 12 months. 

In the light of this we can understand why devout Jews would throw their hands up in horror at what is written in this verse. Why? The writer here dares to suggest that it is not only a High Priest who is invited to enter, or even an entire priesthood or even genuine Jewish believers! No, all who are brothers and sisters in the family of God are permitted to confidently enter this sacred, holy space and to meet, face to face, with Almighty God – whenever they choose!  This is radical to the extreme and still an abomination to the Jews, but for we who believe in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, it is an extraordinary privilege and honour. God no longer separates Himself from humans, He no longer bars our entry into His presence, sin no longer keeps us from a personal relationship with our Creator. Christ has torn the curtain apart and granted us entry into the Most Holy Place. And we are encouraged to approach this heavenly sanctuary with confidence, not with hesitation or fear. We are welcome, our Father is keen to spend time with us, no one can hinder our access, our times alone with our Father are both precious and authorised; because of Jesus. Let these thoughts sink in today, let’s realise afresh just how privileged we are. Let us treasure the honour that has been bestowed and revel in the glory of being welcomed into the throne room of our Father. Hallelujah! 

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