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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 28, 2018 2:30:49 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:7, 27 December 2018
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2018 Thursday, 27 December 2018 But into the second part the high priest went alone once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the people’s sins committed in ignorance; Hebrews 9:7 The words, “the second part,” are speaking of the second and final room within the tabernacle, known as the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies, Holiest of All, etc – based on translation). It is the room where the items of verses 9:4 & 9:5 were described. No person was allowed to enter this room, under pain of death, with the exception of the consecrated high priest. And even he could only enter “alone once a year.” This was on the Day of Atonement. But even then, there were set restrictions on his entry into this inner room. He was never to come “without blood.” The shed blood signified that something had died in a substitutionary manner in place of the sin-filled offender. In this case, it was inclusive of all of the people in Israel, of whom he was not exempt. As it says, “which he offered for himself.” The high priest of Israel was a sinner. He was born in sin, and he sinned in his life throughout the year. If he came into this room without blood, he would die. This is not because the blood of an animal could actually cover over his sins, but because of the typology which was pointing to Christ’s perfect substitutionary blood, which alone can truly take away sin. And so the high priest first offered for himself, and then also “for the people’s sins.” No person was exempted from this. In Leviticus 23, further instructions concerning this day are given. There it says – “And you shall do no work on that same day, for it is the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the Lord your God. 29 For any person who is not afflicted in soul on that same day shall be cut off from his people. 30 And any person who does any work on that same day, that person I will destroy from among his people. 31 You shall do no manner of work; it shall be a statute forever throughout your generations in all your dwellings. 32 It shall be to you a sabbath of solemn rest, and you shall afflict your souls; on the ninth day of the month at evening, from evening to evening, you shall celebrate your sabbath.” Leviticus 23:28-32 These people could have actually worked, and who would be the wiser? And so it can be seen that these instructions come down to a single word for each person in Israel, which is “faith.” A person who didn’t have faith in what was occurring in the temple in Jerusalem would simply go to work or fail to afflict his soul. But a person who truly understood his deserved penalty for violating God’s law would be obedient to these precepts on this holiest day of the year. In this, it then acknowledges that their sins were “committed in ignorance.” In other words, and as an example, King David committed adultery with another man’s wife. He further, then, had that man killed. He knew the law and he knew the penalty for it. But his sin, though understood as such, was regarded as a sin of ignorance because of his heart first having gone astray, and then his remorse over his actions when he was confronted with them. Any person who failed to have this attitude on this most holy of days would not receive atonement, because he failed to acknowledge that his sin was deserving of death. Thus, the blood of the substitute was without meaning to him. This symbolism follows throughout the Bible. There must be a substitution for the sins people commit, or their life is forfeit. Jesus then is that Substitution. It is His blood, and His blood alone, which all of these rituals foreshadowed. Without His life in exchange for an individual’s sin, that individual’s life is forfeit; eternal condemnation awaits. Think on this and understand that you will face God either on your own merits, or on those of Jesus Christ. You will fail on your own; you will prevail in Him. The instructions for entering this second part of the tabernacle are minutely recorded in Leviticus 16. To understand the significance of each detail of this holiest of days, and how these things point directly to the Person and work of Christ, please refer to these sermons – Life application: Considering this precept in light of Christ Jesus, we can see that until someone realizes that Christ died for their sins, and then accepts that payment for what he has done wrong, it is to him as if Christ’s death was unnecessary to atone for his life. Thus, his sins are not considered as in ignorance, and he will have nothing to atone for his high-handed sin against God. His condemnation remains, and he will never enter into God’s paradise. It is only through the shed blood of Christ that anyone can enter into that Most Holy Place. Thank God that our High Priest has gone before us to accomplish this on our behalf. Thank You, O God, for the great blessing of knowing that all sins are forgiven through Jesus Christ our Lord. If we will but look to His great sacrifice on Calvary’s cross as our Substitution, we will be saved. Without that, we stand utterly condemned in Your perfect presence. All glory is from You, for You, and to You alone! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 29, 2018 1:10:31 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:8, 28 December 2018
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2018 Friday, 28 December 2018 ...the Holy Spirit indicating this, that the way into the Holiest of All was not yet made manifest while the first tabernacle was still standing. Hebrews 9:8 The words here are based on what was just stated in the previous verse. Taken together, they say, “But into the second part the high priest went alone once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the people’s sins committed in ignorance; the Holy Spirit indicating this, that the way into the Holiest of All was not yet made manifest while the first tabernacle was still standing.” As noted, a precept was being taught to the people through the total restriction of entry into the “second part,” meaning the Most Holy Place. As this place signifies a return to paradise that was lost at the fall of man, the people were being instructed that no return to God’s paradise was granted to the people through the Old Covenant. The cherubim on the veil symbolized the cherubim who stand guard at the entrance to Eden. This is certain because the author says, “the Holy Spirit indicating this.” The Holy Spirit issues forth the words of Scripture, and those same words of Scripture issued forth the instructions for the priestly duties of Israel. Further, the Holy Spirit also illuminates those same words to be understood by those who pay heed. The people were being instructed that even the high priest was not granted a return to paradise because of his office. He was only allowed in to make a picture of what the coming Christ would do in reality. He went in with blood, he left after his duties were complete, and he could not enter again until the next Day of Atonement. This was to show “that the way into the Holiest of All [the Most Holy Place, symbolizing a return to paradise] was not yet made manifest.” If the way into paradise had been made manifest, then once the rites of the high priest were complete, the veil would have been taken down and the people could have happily come streaming back in, assured of glory. But such was not the case. The high priest departed, the veil remained, and no person was authorized to enter under pain of death. This remained true the whole time that “the first tabernacle was still standing.” Although getting ahead in the commentary, the veil is said later in Hebrews to represent the body of Christ. Also, in Matthew 27, we read this – “And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit. 51 Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split.” Matthew 27:50-51 The symbolism is obvious. Christ performed the work of atonement in His suffering and death. When He died, the law died with Him (meaning the Old Covenant). That is seen in Colossians 2:14, where the law is said to be nailed to the cross. In His death, the veil (His Body) was torn. Likewise, the law, of which He is the fulfillment, was torn and ended at that time. At the same time, the veil in the temple (which was a foreshadowing of His Body) was torn from top to bottom, and thus access to Eden is restored once again for all who come through His torn Body. He is “The Way” to this restoration. As a side note concerning this, the Talmud (an extra-biblical Jewish writing) says that the veil in the temple, which was just before the Most Holy Place, was 40 cubits (60 feet) long, 20 cubits (30 feet) wide, and the thickness of the palm of the hand. It was made of 72 squares which were joined together, and was so heavy that it needed 300 priests to manipulate it. Whether this is an accurate description or not, it was exceedingly large, and yet it was torn “from top to bottom.” Due to its height and size, no human could have done this. Whether it occurred by an earthquake cracking the mantle from which it was suspended or not (as is speculated) is irrelevant. The fact that it occurred the moment Christ died is what is of significance. God was teaching Israel a lesson concerning Christ; we are to pay heed. Life application: Understanding what occurred in fulfillment of the Old Covenant types and shadows, no person should ever say, “We still need to observe the precepts of the Law of Moses.” The author has explained the same thing again and again. In addition to what he is saying, the words of all of the other New Testament writers are in complete agreement. And even more certain is that of the witness of the Holy Spirit – from both Testaments. We are under a New Covenant and we are in a new dispensation. To reintroduce the law is to reject the work of Christ. Who can do such a thing and be held guiltless? Come to Christ, and put away your arrogant, high handed attacks against the Lord who has already accomplished everything necessary to return His people to paradise. Lord God, we can only look with astonishment and complete gratitude at the work which you accomplished on our behalf – the death of Jesus – which opened a restored relationship with You! And even more, the resurrection! Now we also have the hope of eternal life! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 30, 2018 1:27:21 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:9, 29 December 2018
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2018 Saturday, 29 December 2018 It was symbolic for the present time in which both gifts and sacrifices are offered which cannot make him who performed the service perfect in regard to the conscience— Hebrews 9:9 These words are referring to the sacrifices that were still being conducted at the temple in Jerusalem. If you read it in other translations, you’ll see how various translators choose to state it. Some put it in the tense of “was” and “are;” others choose “is” and “were;” while others choose both verbs to be present tense. Translators choose to decide such things based on what they already believe concerning the 1) date of the original letter, or 2) if the letter was written to Christians in general or to first century Jewish believers in Christ, or 3) that the words are set from the eternal perspective of Scripture where what is stated, even if accomplished, continues on as if in the present tense. The NKJV is most surely correct because it places the tenses as “was” and “are.” “Was” refers to the state of the sacrifices from their inception, even to the time of the letter. “Are” indicates these sacrifices were ongoing at the time of the letter (the temple had not yet been destroyed), but also because of the eternal perspective of Scripture. And though the letter was certainly written to first-century Jewish believers, it also will apply to those Jews who will be alive when the temple in Jerusalem is rebuilt. Should they return to these rites and rituals? The author would emphatically tell them, “No.” Understanding these things, he says, “It was symbolic for the present time.” Here, the word translated as “symbolic” is parabole. It is the same word translated as “parable” in the gospels. The author is saying that the things of the Old Covenant – such as the layout, structure, and materials of the sanctuary, all of the rites associated with that sanctuary, and even the days associated with those rites (such as the Day of Atonement) were teaching aids and living lessons which only figuratively pointed to what Christ would do. He was writing to a Hebrew audience that had heard of Christ, but which was dealing with the decision of whether they should continue to adhere to temple rituals as well as following Christ. Did they need to make offerings for sin at the temple as prescribed by law? Again, the answer would be, “No.” He then continues by saying of the offerings, “in which both gifts and sacrifices are offered.” The words, “in which,” are referring to those things which are symbolic. A better rendering would be, “according to which.” As noted, the present tense is correct. The temple still stood, and there were Jews who were confused about what to do concerning making gifts and offerings in order to be right with God. And what does he continue saying about those offerings? That they “cannot make him who performed the service perfect in regard to the conscience.” The words, “him who performed the service,” are speaking of the person coming with his offering, not the priest. The person who takes such a gift or offering to the temple is performing a service in hopes of cleansing his conscience. However, it is not possible that this could happen. The reason why is because as soon as he turned around and walked away from the offering which was intended to cleanse, he might sin again in some way, even before he stepped outside the temple area. If he was honest, he would go get another animal and hurry back to the priest to have the sin corrected. Such a stream of sacrifices would, literally, be never-ending. Unless there was a one-time for all-time Sacrifice, no person would ever dare to leave the area around the temple. Sin in man is that deeply entrenched. The very thoughts in his head are vile and require atonement. The author will continue with this thought in the next verse, and then he will contrast what is stated here by showing the infinitely superior work of Christ, and its effect for the believer under the New Covenant. Life application: It’s important to study and understand where translators have done a poor job and why. As the memo in the preface to the original 1611 King James Version says, a “variety of Translations is profitable for the finding out of the sense of the Scriptures.” The reason is, “They that are wise, had rather have their judgments at liberty in differences of readings, than to be captivated to one, when it may be the other.” In other words, if someone sticks dogmatically to a single translation he is unwise. Translators are fallible, and therefore by studying and contemplating multiple translations, one is much more readily able to properly follow what is being said and why. This really is important because the wording and terminology used in the original languages is often difficult at best and sometimes completely unknown to modern scholars. Lord, how truly blessed we are to live in a day where Your word is translated into thousands of languages; and in some languages many times. We have study tools in abundance including commentaries, devotionals, computer programs, and more. Help us to use these to search out the wonders of Your word! May our knowledge of You be a joyous, lifelong pursuit! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 31, 2018 0:52:52 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:10, 30 December 2018
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018 Sunday, 30 December 2018 ...concerned only with foods and drinks, various washings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time of reformation. Hebrews 9:10 In the previous verse, it was explained that the things of the past which were recorded concerning the makeup of the sanctuary, the articles contained within in it, and the rites and rituals associated with it, were “symbolic for the present time.” As noted, the word “symbolic” means “a parable.” They were ineffectual in perfecting the conscience. The author now continues that thought by saying that they were “concerned only with foods and drinks.” The “foods and drinks” are those things presented to God as sacrifices, gifts, and offerings. They included animal, grain, and wine offerings of various sorts and for various reasons, such as peace offerings, thank offerings, and so forth. Some of these were partially eaten by the priests, some were shared between the Lord and the offerer, and so on. The “various washings” included washings by the people, by the priests, and even of the sacrifices – all accomplished according to laws prescribed within the law itself. An example for the people would be the washing of oneself after touching the carcass of anything. That is seen in Leviticus 11. An example of a priestly washing would, according to the ordination rites for priests, be found in Exodus 40:12. An example of washing the sacrifices is that of washing the entrails of a burnt offering in Leviticus 1:13. There is seemingly an innumerable number of such washings recorded for various reasons. These are the “fleshly ordinances” (note that the word “and” is not in the original Greek. It is superfluous and should be omitted. This simply describes the previous thoughts and is not a separate thought). They did nothing to change the people internally, and they were merely symbolic parables looking forward to their fulfillment in Christ. To understand that, literally, every single detail of these things points to the Person and work of Jesus Christ, take the next year or so and watch all of the Superior Word sermons in order from Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers. You will see how these fleshly ordinances look to spiritual truths revealed in Christ. From there, the author says that they were “imposed until the time of reformation.” The word “time” here is kairos. It signifies a particular point in time marked as “the right moment.” God instituted the law in order to effect certain understandings into the minds of the people. However, the law was never meant as a means to an end, except concerning its fulfillment in Christ. Once that was accomplished, then the “time of reformation” could come about. The word translated as “reformation” is one which indicates “to straighten thoroughly.” It is a straightening of something to its natural condition. In this case, it is speaking of the messianic restoration of all things. For those who trust in Christ, that restoration is realized in the sense that all of these shadows practiced under the law are actually accomplished for us in His work. However, such has not yet occurred for Israel. That time lies yet ahead. These rituals went on, with periods of interruption during the exile and at other times, for about 1500 years. Eventually, though, Christ came and fulfilled His ministry – a ministry which replaced all of these temporary regulations forever. After His fulfillment of the law, there was an overlap of time where the temple still stood in Jerusalem. That finally ended in AD 70 at the destruction of the temple. However, according to Daniel 9:24-27, there are still seven more years offered to the nation of Israel for them to “finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy” (Daniel 9:24, NIV). Even now, the people have prepared the implements for temple worship and each year they attempt to conduct sacrifices on the Temple Mount. In time, it will occur as prophesied. Sadly, they’ve missed the fact that these rituals point to the Person of Jesus. Life application: Though the time of the reformation spoken of here is realized for the believer in Christ, we have to trust that this is so. Do we accept the premise that we are not required to do the things of the law, or do we fall back on the law (in part or in whole) in an attempt to please God? The Bible says that Christ is the end of the law for righteousness for all who believe. Is that something we truly accept? If so, then you must not go back to the law in an attempt to please God. Stand fast on Christ’s complete and final fulfillment of everything necessary to reconcile us to God. Lord, may You open the eyes of the world to the truth of who Jesus is and why He came. We pray especially for the people of Israel who have, for so long, failed to see that their Messiah has already come and that He is even now holding out His hands to them in love. May Christ Jesus be seen for who He truly is, and may many come to a saving knowledge of Him! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 31, 2018 23:22:03 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:11, 31 December 2018
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2018 Monday, 31 December 2018 But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. Hebrews 9:11 The author now contrasts the earthly sanctuary that he has been describing – meaning its makeup, rituals, offerings, and services – with that of Christ’s. This is evident with the conjunction de, translated here as, “But.” In this contrast, he says, “But Christ.” In this, we have the contrast between the high priest of Israel under the Old Covenant, meaning Aaron and his sons after him, and Jesus, the “Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises” (Hebrews 8:6). He, not Aaron, “came as High Priest of the good things to come.” A point of correction: “Of good things to come” is wrong. It is “of good things having come.” One might say, “of the good things realized.” As Vincent’s Word Studies says, it speaks of “Blessings not merely prophetic or objects of hope, but actually attained; free approach to God, the better covenant, personal communion with God, the purging of the conscience.” Despite the translation, the obvious meaning of this is that what came under the Old Covenant was not “good” in comparison to what has come in Christ. Paul says in Romans 7:12 that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.” But Paul continues with the words, “Has then what is good become death to me? Certainly not! But sin, that it might appear sin, was producing death in me through what is good, so that sin through the commandment might become exceedingly sinful.” Now in Hebrews, the author is here making a contrast between the law and the grace found in Christ. The commandment is good, but its outcome – because of sin in man – is not. In Christ though, the outcome far outshines what the law could produce. The law brought death; Christ brings life. The law highlighted sin; Christ removes sin (see Hebrews 10:1). The law demanded a penalty; Christ grants grace and mercy. Such “good things” are not found under the law, but they radiantly shine forth in the New Covenant. And, along with these great outcomes, the author says that Christ came “with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands.” This is then a contrast to what he has already said about the tabernacle of the first covenant. In Chapter 8, he said, “there are priests who offer the gifts according to the law; 5 who serve the copy and shadow of the heavenly things, as Moses was divinely instructed when he was about to make the tabernacle. For He said, ‘See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you on the mountain’” (Hebrews 8:4, 5). What Aaron served at was an earthly tabernacle, and only a “copy and shadow” of a greater and more perfect tabernacle. Whereas that of Aaron was made by human hands, that of Christ is heavenly. It was “not made with hands, that is, not of this creation.” This is what Paul speaks of in 2 Corinthians 5:1-5 – “For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven, 3 if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. 4 For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5 Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.” In the fact that what Christ presents is heavenly, we see an undeniable truth. As the sanctuary, the implements in it, the offerings made there, and those who served there – all of it – pointed to Christ, and prefigured Him and His work, and as the author says that all of this is “not of this creation,” then the inescapable truth is that Jesus Christ is not a created being as claimed by cults such as the Jehovah’s Witnesses. Though He united with His creation, He is not created. As He is not created, then He must be the Creator, because only the Creator is not created. Who Christ is, and what He has done for us in the New Covenant, is not just “better than” anything connected with the Old Covenant. Rather, He is infinitely so. There is no comparison which can truly be made between the two when considering both their makeup and their outcome. Life application: What God established was good and it met its purposes perfectly, which is that we would realize we can never attain righteousness through the law, the temple, or the temple rituals. Rather, Christ fulfilled the law on our behalf, coming “with the greater and more perfect tabernacle.” Consider the glory of God, His absolute splendor. Now imagine how minuscule we are in comparison to creation. In fact, take 6 minutes to watch this video – After this, ask yourself the question David asked so long ago, “What is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?” (Psalm 8:4). Imagine the Creator of all of this caring so much for you that He united with human flesh and humbled Himself on a cross… all for you. When you are feeling low, useless, or lacking value, please remember that God feels completely the opposite about you. Through Christ, He has called you His precious child. Lord God, Your word reveals that we have true value to You, if we will but come to You in faith. You possess all of the power displayed in the universe, and even more. And yet You loved us enough that You sent Jesus to die for our sins so that we could be restored to You once again. Surely we have value to You, if we will but come to You in faith. Help us to do so, O God. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 2, 2019 1:46:51 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:12, 1 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2019 Tuesday, 1 January 2019 Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. Hebrews 9:12 Here, the author is describing the requirements of the Day of Atonement for the high priest of Israel. These requirements are minutely described in Leviticus 16. The symbolism of Christ fills the entire passage with picture after picture of His work. It is an astonishing study. First, the high priest had to take the blood of a bull (here called a calf) into the Most Holy Place. This was to atone for his own sins. After this, he took the blood of a goat for the sins of the people. The superiority of what Christ did is seen in the contrasting word de, translated here as “but.” Unlike the high priest of Israel, who is acknowledged as a sinner because of the need to offer blood for himself, such is not the case with Christ Jesus. Rather, He is the perfect sacrifice which these animals only pictured, and He entered “with His own blood.” The perfection implied in the animals which were sacrificed was due to an inspection of them first. There was to be no defect in them, and thus they represented Christ in His perfect, unblemished state. In His death, He presented Himself as the sacrificial offering. As it literally says in the Greek, “through however the own blood He entered.” The Greek word dia signifies “through,” “on account of,” or “because of.” It is by the instrumentality of His own blood that He entered the Most Holy Place. It is the same word used in verse 9:11 where Christ went dia, or through, the greater and more perfect tabernacle. Here His entering of the Most Holy Place was through His own blood, proving His sinlessness, and thus demonstrating His ability to fully cleanse those for whom His life was given. As it says, “once for all.” It is the same Greek word used by Paul in Romans 6:10 which says, “For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all.” Christ died once for all, and He entered the Most Holy Place once for all. Unlike the high priest who used an animal, a type of Christ, and who had to repeat the same sacrifices year after year, Christ died once. His death, validated in His shed blood, is fully sufficient to forever cleanse all those who come to Him. It is, when logically considered, the surest proof of the doctrine of eternal salvation. The icing on the cake is that in acceptance of this atoning sacrifice, one is sealed with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee (Ephesians 1:13, 14). With this understanding of surety, the author finishes with, “having obtained eternal redemption.” The word translated as “redemption” is found only here and in Luke 1:68 and Luke 2:38. It signifies “the payment of the full ransom-price to free a slave – particularly the redemption of an individual” (HELPS Word Studies). In other words, the individual so redeemed has been ransomed eternally – the price is paid, and freedom is granted. Vincent’s Word Studies explains the meaning – “Not mere duration is contemplated, but quality; a redemption answering in its quality to that age when all the conditions of time shall be no more: a redemption not ritual, but profoundly ethical and spiritual.” Again, the entire verse speaks of a one-time for all-time salvation. It is eternal in scope, and it is never to be repeated. Jesus Christ’s blood does not purchase eternal insecurity, but rather eternal security. The thought here takes us back to what was said in Hebrews 5:8, 9 – “...though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. 9 And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.” Eternal redemption equates to eternal salvation. The two are met and obtained through faith in the Person and work of Jesus Christ. To say one can lose what Christ died for is to say that the blood of Christ is a lie. Either the act is sufficient and forever complete, or we have placed our hope in a system which can fail by our own actions, meaning that what we do is greater than what Christ has done. This is impossible. Life application: The believer in Jesus Christ has no need to worry if he has “lost” his salvation for some heinous sin; it cannot happen. If a person came to Christ by faith and accepted His offer of peace, then he is eternally secure. All people fall, all stumble, all make mistakes, but the blood of Jesus Christ is infinitely more powerful to cleanse than we are to err. He has secured “eternal salvation” and “eternal redemption” for His people. Both Peter and Paul state that we “have” been redeemed. Paul says in Ephesians 4:30 that the Holy Spirit has sealed us for the day of redemption. If the two apostles say we “have” been redeemed and then Paul says we are sealed “for” the day of redemption, and Hebrews says that we have “eternal redemption,” then it logically follows that we are potentially redeemed now and that this will be actualized at a future date. It also means it can never be lost. Praise be to God that Jesus Christ’s blood was presented on our behalf! The perfect for the imperfect – what an honor to be called by the name of Jesus! Lord Jesus, we have failed you a million times and we loathe our failings, but there is no fear that You have turned from us, nor that You ever will. We are assured of the glorious promise of Your eternal redemption obtained for us on the cross of Calvary. When You said, “It is finished,” we can trust that it is so. Praises belong to You, O Christ! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 3, 2019 1:06:38 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:13, 2 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2019 Wednesday, 2 January 2019 For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, Hebrews 9:13 This verse initiates a thought which will continue through the next verse as well. And then, after that, it will be settled in verse 9:15. However, it is tied to the previous words with the connector, “For.” Thus, what is presented is explanatory of what has been stated in verse 12 where it said that Christ has obtained for us “eternal redemption.” With that in his view, he will have the thoughts tied together at the end of verse 9:15 using the words, “that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.” In other words, the “eternal redemption,” leads to obtaining the “eternal inheritance.” With that in view, and to get us to that point, he now says, “For if the blood of bulls and goats.” This takes us back to the explanation of the Day of Atonement which was just described in verse 12. However, the thought certainly extends to other sacrifices as well where the same animals were used in other rituals. This is all the more certain based on the next words which say, “and the ashes of a heifer.” The ashes of a heifer were not used on the Day of Atonement. Rather, how they were obtained, and the purpose they served, is found in Numbers 19. In verses 1-10 the process of obtaining these ashes is described. In verse 9, it says that these are for “purifying from sin.” This is then more fully explained in verses 11-13 – “He who touches the dead body of anyone shall be unclean seven days. 12 He shall purify himself with the water on the third day and on the seventh day; then he will be clean. But if he does not purify himself on the third day and on the seventh day, he will not be clean. 13 Whoever touches the body of anyone who has died, and does not purify himself, defiles the tabernacle of the Lord. That person shall be cut off from Israel. He shall be unclean, because the water of purification was not sprinkled on him; his uncleanness is still on him.” Number 19:11-13 As is seen, these ashes were for “sprinkling the unclean.” It is an outward cleansing of the flesh, but it actually does nothing to purify the person in their heart and soul. Like the other rites and rituals encountered throughout the law, this simply “sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh.” As can be seen, the author is setting up a contrast where he demonstrates the inferiority of the sacrificial system of the Law of Moses. Though he only mentions a few here, there were various animals that were used for those rituals – lambs, goats, bulls, doves, and even a red heifer’s ashes. Each served a particular purpose and some could serve several purposes, but they all had one thing in common – they only made the people outwardly clean, and most of these purifications were simply symbolic in nature. In some, hyssop was dipped into the blood or other mixture and then it was sprinkled on the people. This was done as a reminder of their unclean state in the presence of God. Some of these cleansings, such as in the case of the ashes of the red heifer, took seven full days to be accomplished, but they were still only external rites of purification. Such outward cleansings were only a foreshadowing of the greater work of Jesus and His shed blood. Peter uses such terminology in the greeting of his first epistle, applying it to the true cleansing power of Jesus – “...elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:2 Life application: People who want to please God through works of the law are attempting to have it both ways. First, they want to appear more holy and pious through external rites, like not eating pork. “Oh, I am way better than you because I don’t eat that dirty flesh of swine.” But yet, in their attempt to supposedly be clean in this way, they don’t observe any of the blood or sprinkling rituals required under that same law. Not one person in 2000 years has done this. And so their attempt to be symbolically clean, by not doing one thing, is entirely negated by not doing another. Epic fail. Do not follow such people, but come to the Fount of true cleansing. Come to Christ Jesus who is the fulfillment of all of these mere types and shadows. Indeed – Come to Christ. Thank You Lord God for the more perfect cleansing we have in the precious blood of Jesus, without which we stand unclean and condemned. Help us to remember always the high cost of our atonement and purification, and to accept it with humility, knowing we don’t deserve the least of Your favor. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 4, 2019 0:19:27 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:14, 3 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019 Thursday, 3 January 2019 ...how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Hebrews 9:14 These words contrast what was just stated in the previous verse. The author had started to pose the question, “For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh...” Now he asks a contrasting question beginning with “how much more shall the blood of Christ.” The rites of the Old Covenant were symbolic in nature, and they were simply external rites intended to purify externally. Further, this was done with sacrificial animals. They are brute beasts, and in a completely different category than a human being. Thus, they were actually ineffectual in doing anything more than symbolically representing what lay ahead in Christ. This will be made explicit in Chapter 10. However, under the New Covenant, Christ’s blood was shed. He was (and is) innocent, He is in the same category (being human), and He voluntarily gave Himself in exchange for the sins of others. The supremacy of Christ’s work is on a completely different level. Further, this offering was made “through the eternal Spirit.” The Greek has no definite article, and – though debated among scholars – it is most likely not speaking of the Holy Spirit, who is never designated this way in Scripture. Thus it should more likely read, “through an eternal spirit.” The word dia, or through, is used to convey the thought that Christ offered Himself through His nature as a human being, set apart unto holiness. To understand the contrast between the animals offered and the offering of Christ, one can refer to the words of Solomon in Ecclesiastes 3:21 – “Who knows the spirit of the sons of men, which goes upward, and the spirit of the animal, which goes down to the earth?” The spirit of man is contrasted to that of the animals in Ecclesiastes, and that is built upon by the author of Hebrews here by comparing the “blood of bulls and goats” (9:13) to “the blood of Christ” (9:14). To this thought is added that of the perfection of Christ as has been detailed in the gospels, explained in the epistles, and which has continued to be minutely detailed here in the book of Hebrews. It is this eternal Spirit by which Christ existed, performed His earthly role, gave His life, and was resurrected to never die again. That is contrasted to a mere animal which lives as an animal, dies as an animal, and which is then gone from the stream of existence. It is through this eternal Spirit by which Christ “offered Himself without spot to God.” The words, “without spot,” speak of perfection. In the Mosaic Law, animals were inspected for purity. If there was any spot or blemish on them, they were not to be sacrificed for the sins of the people. However, the record of Christ’s life shows that He was (and is) perfect in all ways. Thus, the sacrifice of Himself “to God” was perfectly acceptable to accomplish the fulfillment of all of the rites and rituals which symbolically only looked forward to His perfection. This is recorded, explicitly, by Peter – “And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:17-19 And so, with understanding this infinite difference in the blood that is shed by Christ, we can complete the question the author is proposing. If the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more can the contrasting shed blood of Christ “cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” The answer must be “completely and wholly.” It is a one-time for all-time cleansing. Nothing can undo it, and it is fully sufficient to carry the one who receives His offering past the cherubim, through the veil, and into God’s paradise once again. All of the symbolism of the sanctuary looked forward to Christ’s coming, and His work of restoring us – once and forever – to God. Life application: In Chapter 5 of the book of Romans, Paul says five times “much more” concerning the superlative work of Christ in regards to how it brings us near to God once again. Christ Jesus is superior to all things in all ways, including those blood sacrifices of the Old Testament. The people were outwardly cleansed by their participation in Old Covenant services, but with Christ, we are cleansed both outwardly and inwardly – from our dead works. Any sin causes separation from God and, therefore, man stands utterly condemned in the presence of pure holiness. But Christ placed Himself in the gap and presented His blood on our behalf. God accepted this and we now have complete peace with Him, if only we accept by faith what Jesus did. Are you ready to stop trying to please God on your own merits and good deeds and simply hand your life over to Christ? In Him, there is complete healing and restoration. Or, if you’ve come to Christ, are you still consciously carrying around the guilt of past sins? Let them go! We don’t want to forget where we’ve come from or the place we once were, but we also don’t need to continually bear the weight of our sins which have been washed away. Instead, have peace that Jesus Christ has truly – once and for all – cleared our guilty consciences and taken away the stains. And then… give a shout? Whoo hoo! Lord God Almighty, we are cleansed – wholly, completely, and forever – through the shed blood of Christ. And so why, Lord, do we continually bring up our past sin which has been purified and forgiven through His work? Help us to never forget where we came from, but help us to know for sure that we are freed from what we did while we were there. In Christ, there is life anew! Let us never assume that our sins were of greater magnitude than the cleansing power of Christ. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 5, 2019 1:43:53 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:15, 4 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2019 Friday, 4 January 2019 And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance. Hebrews 9:15 The author has just shown the superiority of the shed blood of Christ over that of the animal sacrifices of the Old Covenant. Christ’s offering was one which was fully capable of cleansing those who come to Him. And that blood was not taken into an earthly sanctuary, but into “the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands” (9:11). Through this offering, the author then said that, in that Most Holy Place, He obtained for His people “eternal redemption.” In this understanding, he now says, “And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant.” In what was presented in those previous verses, it is evident that Jesus Christ is the One, only, and true “Mediator.” What Aaron and his descendants did was merely typical of the work of Christ, but it was actually ineffective in bringing about reconciliation between God and man. Instead, it only anticipated what Christ would do when He introduced “the new covenant.” As a new covenant is introduced, it shows that the old was temporary and anticipatory. If there was no fault in the old, there would be no need for a new (see verse 8:7). But there was fault (sin in man) which required the fulfillment of the old through a perfect Man. The surety of His perfection was determined “by means of death.” The logic is that even though perfect and without sin, until Christ died, He could not be considered perfect in death. What if He violated the law just before dying? But in death, the record of man is set, once and for all. The death validated the life of perfection. This is why Christ’s death was necessary. First, it validated His perfection, and then secondly, it was suitable “for the transgressions under the first covenant.” Along with the two points just mentioned, it is hard to even comprehend how much else is involved in what Jesus did. The words look forward to those who accept His work after the cross and also back on those who lived by faith under the Old Covenant system. Violations of the law must be atoned for, even just one. This is because breaking any part of the law results in breaking the entire law (James 2:10). As the sins of the first covenant were only potentially atoned for in Christ until He came, it shows that Christ is truly the only Mediator between God and man. This is stated explicitly in 1 Timothy 2:5 and it excludes any other – such as Mary, whom Roman Catholicism accepts as a co-equal mediatrix. Such heresy must be addressed because a prayer to or through Mary (or anyone else) is an ineffective prayer; a reliance on anyone but Jesus is a lost hope. It is through Jesus alone “that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance.” The overall scope of what occurred in Christ’s work is both more effective, and broader in range, than that of the Old Covenant system. “Those who are called” are any from Israel under the Old Covenant, and those who come to Christ under the New. It is the final, finished, and fully sufficient work of Christ that is the guarantee for both that they “may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance. None under the Old could receive it apart from Christ, and in the introduction of the New, none will receive it apart from Christ. Christ alone is the way to reconciliation with God, for all people and at all times. Life application. It was said above that in death, the record of man is set, once and for all. As this is true, it shows that any person can come to Christ at any time before his death, and in that act, he is granted Christ’s perfection. In this, he then receives the promise of the eternal inheritance. For those who come to Christ many years before death, they are at that time granted His sinless perfection. After that, as sin is no longer imputed in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:19), they are deemed as perfect from that point on, even until death. And for the one who calls on Christ a moment before dying, he too is imputed Christ’s perfection, and he moves from death to life. No person who comes to Christ will be lost. Lord God, keep our hearts, thoughts, and minds focused on Jesus and His work. Protect us from heresy which can only take our eyes off the Prize which is Jesus alone. When we stray from Your precepts, send us correction that we may always be pleasing in Your eyes. Amen!
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 6, 2019 2:11:37 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:16, 5 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, JANUARY 5, 2019 Saturday, 5 January 2019 For where there is a testament, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. Hebrews 9:16 Note: It is highly debated whether this should read “testament” or “covenant.” Some translations state, “will,” to reflect the idea of a testament. The fact that the author’s entire thought has been concerning the covenant previously enacted and described, and that this is addressed to the Hebrews, among whom the covenant was made, and to whom the New Covenant is being introduced, the term “covenant” is certainly the author’s intent. He has been speaking of the sacrificial animals, typical of Christ, and now he turns to the main Subject, Christ, as the sacrifice – proved by His death. Noted scholars on both sides of the issue give their cases for which word is correct, but in a study of both sides, the surety that “covenant” is appropriate is realized. To see this, scholars such as Charles Ellicott and Albert Barnes (among others) should be referred to. The entire thought, both before this verse and in the words to come, demonstrate that the author is referring to the introduction of the New Covenant, not the receiving of an inheritance. Young’s Literal Translation rightly says, “for where a covenant is, the death of the covenant-victim to come in is necessary.” If your translation says, “testament,” or “will,” make a margin note. It should read, “covenant.” With that understood, the author says, “For.” It is speaking of those things he has said to this point concerning the introduction of the New Covenant as a replacement for the Old Covenant. This was highlighted by the words of the previous verse which say, “And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant.” Understanding this, he says, “For where there is a [covenant].” This is speaking of the New Covenant which is introduced as a replacement of the Old. Of this, there can be no doubt. As a New Covenant is being introduced, “there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.” To ensure what is said is properly understood, we will stick with Young’s usage and say, “the death of the covenant-victim.” In order to establish a covenant, there must be a death which solidifies the making of the covenant. This was seen in the covenant made with Abraham – “So He said to him, “Bring Me a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” 10 Then he brought all these to Him and cut them in two, down the middle, and placed each piece opposite the other; but he did not cut the birds in two.” Genesis 15:9, 10 This was seen in the Mosaic Covenant – “Then he sent young men of the children of Israel, who offered burnt offerings and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen to the Lord. 6 And Moses took half the blood and put it in basins, and half the blood he sprinkled on the altar. 7 Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read in the hearing of the people. And they said, “All that the Lord has said we will do, and be obedient.” 8 And Moses took the blood, sprinkled it on the people, and said, “This is the blood of the covenant which the Lord has made with you according to all these words.” Exodus 24:5-8 Even Jeremiah refers to this practice in Jeremiah 34:18. Death was called for at the introduction of these covenants, in order to ratify what was being covenanted. This is what is being spoken of now in Hebrews. Christ fulfilled the Old Covenant, and then He instituted the New Covenant. And what did He Himself says concerning this? It is recorded in Matthew 26, Mark 14, and Luke 22 – which Paul substantially repeats in 1 Corinthians 11. Christ said on the night before His crucifixion, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you” (Luke 22:20). In fact, Paul goes on to explain this with the words – “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.” 1 Corinthians 11:25, 26 The case of correct terminology is settled in the idea of “covenant” by the words of the Lord, and through the hand of both Paul and the author of Hebrews (be it Paul or another). The Lord died in order to introduce a New Covenant. We take the Lord’s Supper to acknowledge that fact, and in honor of what He has done. It is He who is the covenant-victim who died to grant us the grace of God in Himself. Life application: As is seen, and as is recorded in Scripture, the death of Jesus Christ accomplished two opposing things at the same time. First, He died in fulfillment of the Old Covenant, and secondly, He died to initiate the New Covenant. Jesus’ death was necessary for there to be a New Covenant. This is because the first covenant was already in place and was sealed, as will be seen in the coming verses. Only a more perfect Sacrifice could replace the Old Covenant where the blood used for it was ordained by God as befitting such an agreement. Therefore, only a more perfect blood – that of a sinless Man – could replace what was in effect. Hence, Jesus’ perfect, sinless life was given to nullify the Old Covenant and establish the New. As Paul noted in his directions, when we participate in the Lord’s Supper, we “proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” This is one of only two mandated ordinances in the Bible – the other being baptism. If you have never participated in baptism, or if you don’t frequently participate in the Lord’s Supper, make a commitment today to do so. Lord God, for those of us who have called on Jesus as Lord, may we be responsible, obedient followers by being baptized as You have so commanded us; and then may we regularly partake in the Lord’s Supper as we have been instructed in Your word. If we fail to do these simple things, then are we truly being obedient to You? May we walk in accord with Your precepts, and be faithful disciples all our days. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 7, 2019 0:24:09 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:17, 6 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, JANUARY 6, 2019 Sunday, 6 January 2019 For a testament is in force after men are dead, since it has no power at all while the testator lives. Hebrews 9:17 Again, as in the previous verse, the word “testament” is not correct. This has not been, is not, and will not be the subject of the discussion. It is a “covenant” which is being referred to. A proper translation of these words would be, “for a covenant over dead victims is stedfast, since it is no force at all when the covenant-victim liveth” (Young’s Literal Translation). It is with this proper translation that the words will be evaluated. As it says, “for a covenant over dead victims is steadfast.” The words in Greek literally read, “for a covenant over death.” In other words, a covenant is made over the death which occurred. From there, that covenant was in force, and it remained that way. The covenant was cut, the animals were slaughtered, and the agreement was made in the sprinkling of the blood, proving the death which sealed the covenant. If a new covenant were to be introduced, it would supersede the old one. This is why the author firmly stated in verse 7:18 that the “former regulation is set aside,” and in verse 8:13 that “he has made the first one obsolete.” However, the first could neither be set aside, nor made obsolete, while the covenant-victim of the coming covenant was alive. As Young’s says, “since it is no force at all when the covenant-victim liveth.” This was true with the Old Covenant. It had no power at all until the covenant-victims were slaughtered. And it is true with the New Covenant as well. In order for the New Covenant to come into effect, the covenant-victim, in this case Christ Jesus, had to die. The author will spend the next several verses speaking about this process, and he will finish the chapter with the thought of Christ’s death and what it means for those who have received Him. In this regard, the idea of a will is like that of a covenant. Can you imagine standing in a court with a superseded will, knowing it to be so, and arguing why it should be accepted and the newer one rejected? If all was in order with the newer will, the court could find no reason for your argument and your case would be dismissed. How much more, then, should we accept that God, as a fully competent Executor of the New Covenant, has ordained that we live by that same New Covenant which He provided at the cost of His own beloved Son! Clinging to the Law of Moses is actually an indication that one has failed to trust the promises and benefits of the New Covenant established over the death of the Lord. Hebrews, above all other books of the New Testament, makes the point absolutely clear that we are living under new guidelines and with better precepts. To reinstitute dietary laws, mandatory tithing, or any other precept from the law is to live by “another gospel” than that which has been proclaimed in the Person and work of Jesus Christ. Life application: We need to be exceedingly careful that if we follow precepts which were mandated under the Mosaic Covenant, it is because of our freedom in Christ and not because of a belief that we are somehow justified by our actions. Further, we are never (times infinity, plus one) to teach another person that they must adhere to a precept found in the obsolete and replaced Law of Moses. We are to teach the grace of Jesus Christ, and the principles laid out in the New Testament which are based on that. Heavenly Father – You alone know our failings and the areas where our doctrine is weak and ineffective. Transform our thinking to be in line with the precepts and guidelines that You have carefully and clearly laid out for us in the pages of Your word, the Holy Bible. And may those precepts and guidelines be in accord with the New Covenant of grace, found in Jesus our Lord. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 8, 2019 2:13:54 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:18, 7 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, JANUARY 7, 2019 Monday, 7 January 2019 Therefore not even the first covenant was dedicated without blood. Hebrews 9:18 The words here are based on the facts presented in verses 9:16 and 9:17. Because a covenant requires the death of a covenant-victim, and because a covenant only has force after the death of that covenant-victim, there must be blood presented to prove the death of the covenant-victim. That is the basis for the word, “Therefore.” From there, the author then explains the necessity of blood with the words, “not even the first covenant was dedicated without blood.” Here, the first covenant is speaking of the Mosaic Covenant, not the Abrahamic Covenant. Though both were dedicated through the death of covenant-victims, it is the covenant which came through Moses which is being referred to right now. That will be made explicit in the next verse. This verse actually settles the issue as to which translation is correct in the previous verses where some say “testament,” and some say “covenant.” The issue all along has been referring to the covenant of Christ in comparison to the covenant through Moses. Thus, translations which say, “testament,” are wrong and require a pen and ink note with the correct terminology. As a point of biblical theology, the term “scarlet thread” is used by some to indicate the symbolism which permeates the Bible concerning the need for substitutionary atonement. Substitutionary atonement is a big term, but one which is easily explained. The Bible says that the wages of sin is death. This means that a person must die for sin in their life – both original sin and sin committed in life. However, a substitute may die in place of the offender. From the first pages of the Bible in Genesis, until the last book of Revelation, this concept is held to and never deviated from. Either we die in our own sin, eternally separated from God, or a substitutionary life is given on our behalf. When Adam and Eve fell, God provided the offering on their behalf – “Also for Adam and his wife the Lord God made tunics of skin, and clothed them.” Genesis 3:21 When humans from all ages face God at the great white throne judgment, the same concept will apply – “But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.” Revelation 21:27 In the Genesis account, an innocent animal was killed to “cover” Adam and Eve, thus symbolizing the covering of their sins. It was a foreshadowing of the true Substitution fond in Christ. In the Revelation account, it is the “Lamb’s Book of Life” which records those who have received His substitutionary atonement – either looking forward to Messiah, or looking back on what He has done. Jesus’ death is the only true covering for fallen man. This is the scarlet thread which is poetically referred to concerning the blood of the Substitute. It all points to Christ. Life application: 1) Don’t get stuck on one translation of the Bible. Your theology will always suffer by following this unscholarly approach to Bible study. 2) Anyone who has not personally accepted Jesus’ work will be eternally condemned. It is a sacrifice of God’s choosing, not ours, which is acceptable. If you are relying on the sacrifices of donations, good deeds, or right living to please God, you’ve missed the mark…condemnation awaits. Trust in Jesus alone today. O God, open our eyes to the simplicity of Your gospel of peace. May we not stumble over it in our attempts to please You through our own works and lose our souls in the process. May we readily receive the grace revealed in the sacrifice of Jesus which opens the door of restoration and healing for us. And it is in His glorious and beautiful name we pray. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 9, 2019 1:38:52 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:19, 8 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2019 Tuesday, 8 January 2019 For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats, with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book itself and all the people, Hebrews 9:19 The words now give a general description of the rites associated with the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant as has been discussed in verses 9:16-18. “For when Moses” shows that the author has been referring specifically to the Mosaic Covenant. His words have not been speaking of either a “will” or a “testament,” but a covenant. At that time, “Moses had spoken every precept to all the people.” That is seen in Exodus 24:6, which will be cited below. The words he read out to the people were “according to the law.” In other words, he read the agreement which was to be ratified between the Lord and the people, openly and fully. There was nothing hidden from their ears concerning the covenant. After that, “he took the blood of calves and goats, with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled the book itself and all the people.” The details here do not specifically match what was stated in Exodus 24. For example, it only says “oxen” were sacrificed as burnt and peace offerings. However, the term, “calves and goats,” could be a simple all-inclusive idiom. Or, it could be that the goats were part of an unrecorded sin-offering. Further, the mixture of water, scarlet wool, and hyssop is not specifically referred to in Exodus 24. This doesn’t mean Moses didn’t do this, but rather that it is simply unrecorded. In this, the author is detailing what was known to have occurred. As an explanation of these things, the mixture mentioned included – 1) The blood of calves and goats. This indicates that young and innocent lives were sacrificed to seal the covenant when accepted by the people. The exact animals, and how they point to Christ, are discussed in the corresponding Superior Word sermons. 2) The water. This was mixed into the blood as a foreshadowing of the blood and water that came from Christ’s side – “But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.” John 19:34 3) The scarlet wool. This points to Jesus’ sacrifice and the cleansing it provides – “‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ Says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.’” Isaiah 1:18 4) The hyssop. This is a plant similar to mint and was symbolic of the cleansing power of Jesus. David uses the terminology of such cleansing – “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:7 The procedure Hebrews is alluding to is mentioned in the book of Exodus, and the mental picture it provides is sobering – “And Moses took half the blood and put it in basins, and half the blood he sprinkled on the altar. 7 Then he took the Book of the Covenant and read in the hearing of the people. And they said, ‘All that the Lord has said we will do, and be obedient.’ 8 And Moses took the blood, sprinkled it on the people, and said, ‘This is the blood of the covenant which the Lord has made with you according to all these words.’” Exodus 24:6-8 Even the people were sprinkled with the blood of the covenant. This made it binding on them as they said, “we will do, and be obedient.” However, as Paul states elsewhere – “But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident, for ‘the just shall live by faith.’” Galatians 3:11 As you can see, the people promised something they could never fulfill. God knew this, but in His great mercy He provided a covering for them each year on the Day of Atonement; a day which looked ahead to its fulfillment in Jesus. Life application: The rites of the Old Covenant continually looked forward to their fulfillment in Christ Jesus. They were only types and shadows of what was to come in Him. They actually did nothing but anticipate His fulfillment of these things. To understand what has only been briefly discussed in this verse’s commentary, go back and watch all of the Superior Word sermons in the Pentateuch. You will have a well-rounded understanding of the typology presented there, as well as its fulfillment in Christ. Lord God, looking at the intricacies of Your plan of redemption, we can see the absolute wisdom in all You have done, and the glory of the promises which are yet ahead for those who have come to You in faith through Christ. Truly, we stand in awe of this plan – from Genesis to Revelation. Glory and praises – they surely belong to You! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 10, 2019 0:37:27 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:20, 9 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2019 Wednesday, 9 January 2019 ...saying, “This is the blood of the covenant which God has commanded you.” Hebrews 9:20 This continues what was stated in the previous verse. The author explained what rites were accomplished in the cutting of the covenant at Sinai, and now he shows what words accompanied the rite of sprinkling. It is speaking of Moses’ ratification of the Old Covenant. Moses was given specific directions about every single thing he was to do and how he was to do it. When he did something, he did it speaking as an appointed instrument, subordinate to the One who appointed him. As it says, “which God has commanded.” The fact that God directed all things to be done, and that He also commanded the people within the covenant itself, shows that the covenant is one between a Superior and subordinates. The people agreed to accept the leadership of the Lord, and to do those things which He determined should be done. This then was ratified in the blood of covenant-victim. However, there is a difference between what occurred at Sinai, and what occurred in Christ. When Jesus gave the New Covenant, it was on His own authority: “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you” (Luke 22:20). This is similar to when prophets of old spoke or acted – “When Elisha came into the house, there was the child, lying dead on his bed. 33 He went in therefore, shut the door behind the two of them, and prayed to the Lord.” 2 Kings 4:32, 33 Elisa prayed to the Lord for restoration of the dead. However, Jesus spoke and acted under His own authority – “Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still. And He said, ‘Young man, I say to you, arise.’ 15 So he who was dead sat up and began to speak. And He presented him to his mother.” Luke 7:14, 15 Life application: The supremacy of Christ is a concept which has been and will continue to be analyzed in the book of Hebrews, sometimes subtly as in the verse looked at in this commentary. Jesus is “greater than” in all ways because He is the incarnation of the LORD Jehovah. The Old Testament conceals Him; the New reveals Him. Don’t miss the mark by worshiping a false Christ found in a false gospel, such as the “Jehovah’s Witnesses” of today do. Theirs is an ancient heresy going back to a man named Arius which has continued to infect right doctrine throughout the ages. Further, when verses speak of keeping the Lord’s commandments (such a 1 John 2:3, 4), it is referring to the commands of the Lord within the New Covenant context. It cannot be speaking of the Law of Moses, because that law is obsolete and set aside. This is an even older heresy put forth by Judaizers, which is warned about in Paul’s New Testament epistles, especially Galatians. Be aware of the deceit of such false doctrines. Worshiping incorrectly because of belief in a false Christ can only end in death and condemnation. Lord God, You have set us free from the bondage of our sin and from the bondage of the law which highlights our sin, through the blood of Christ. We can worship You in a way never possible before because of what Jesus did first. Help us to always hold fast to the glorious truth of the gospel which brings freedom from bondage, and also full fellowship with You. Help us to always walk in the light of Christ our Lord. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 11, 2019 2:50:52 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:21, 10 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, JANUARY 10, 2019 Thursday, 10 January 2019 Then likewise he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle and all the vessels of the ministry. Hebrews 9:21 After receiving the covenant from God, Moses slaughtered an animal and sprinkled the blood on the altar which had been erected. After that, he read the Book of the Covenant in the hearing of the people. Once that was completed, the people proclaimed, “All that the Lord has said we will do, and be obedient” (Exodus 24:7). From there, he sprinkled the blood on the people, thus binding them to the words they uttered. In this verse, it is noted that Moses likewise “sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle and all the vessels of the ministry.” It is not explicitly noted in Moses’ writings that the tabernacle (literally, the tent) was sprinkled with blood. It was, however, sprinkled with anointing oil as is indicated in Exodus 40. In Exodus 29, it is seen that, for the consecration of Aaron and his sons, they and their garments were to be sprinkled with the oil and with the blood that was on the altar as well. Thus, it was probable that the same procedure with blood was a part of the Exodus 40 sprinkling, though not specifically mentioned – “And you shall take the anointing oil, and anoint the tabernacle and all that is in it; and you shall hallow it and all its utensils, and it shall be holy. 10 You shall anoint the altar of the burnt offering and all its utensils, and consecrate the altar. The altar shall be most holy. 11 And you shall anoint the laver and its base, and consecrate it.” Exodus 40:9-11 A great deal of work went into making all of these things, and many of them were made of fabric which was extremely beautiful, such as the garments of Aaron and his sons. Here is a part of their description – “And these are the garments which they shall make: a breastplate an ephod, a robe, a skillfully woven tunic, a turban, and a sash. So they shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother and his sons, that he may minister to Me as priest. 5 They shall take the gold, blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and the fine linen, 6 and they shall make the ephod of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and fine woven linen, artistically worked. 7 It shall have two shoulder straps joined at its two edges, and so it shall be joined together. 8 And the intricately woven band of the ephod, which is on it, shall be of the same workmanship, made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and fine woven linen.” Exodus 28:4-8 The actual detail of the workmanship in these garments goes on for many more verses. After all of this care and attention, Moses sprinkled them with blood. This would have permanently stained those things which were made of fabric. This was a lesson that everything on earth was tainted at the fall, including the people. Therefore, to symbolize their corrupt nature and their need for atonement, they were sprinkled with blood to symbolically purify them. This is actually what Peter is referring to in the opening words of his first epistle – “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2 who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.” 1 Peter 1:1, 2 Life application: What does God see when He looks at you? If He sees you without the covering of Christ’s sacrifice, He looks upon you in wrath, because – by your very nature – you are a child of wrath. But if He looks upon the blood of His Son sprinkled on you, then you have moved to a propitious place of favor! As those things of the Old Covenant only anticipated Christ, why would anyone consider going back under it? The blood which was sprinkled was only effective in how it looked forward to Calvary’s cross. The law, which included the sprinkling of animal blood, did nothing to truly cleanse the people. Only in Christ does that occur. O God, Your word says that the blood of Jesus can cleanse our souls. It can take away all stain of sin. Now we can stand righteous in Your presence, but not because of our own goodness. Rather, it is because of the righteousness of Christ. It is in Christ alone that we are washed and cleansed! Thank You for Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 12, 2019 0:31:32 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:22, 11 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 2019 Friday, 11 January 2019 And according to the law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission. Hebrews 9:22 The idea is better expressed by the NAS, which says, “And according to the Law, one may almost say, all things are cleansed with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” There are exceptions where purification takes place apart from blood, but the overall idea of purification is that things “are purified with blood.” This is a general statement covering what has been said in the previous verses. The blood purifies because the blood testifies to the death of the covenant-victim. In such a case, that death must take place in order to ratify the covenant. Because of this, and because sin is dealt with through the giving of such a covenant, “without shedding of blood there is no remission.” With this absolutely stated, it should be reexplained that though it is true that there is no remission without the shedding of blood, it is also true that not all shed blood can atone for sin. Rather, the blood shed under the Old Covenant (except for Christ’s fulfillment of it) merely anticipated Christ. Hebrews 10:4 will explicitly state that the blood of the animals sacrificed for sin could not take away that sin. Thus, it is an ineffectual, anticipatory, and merely typical system of sacrifices. Further, no other shed human blood can atone for sins. This is because of the stain of original sin in man. All have sinned and, therefore, it is impossible that a sin-filled sacrifice could atone for the sins of another. This is true even with supposedly innocent babies which were sacrificed on altars throughout Israel’s history (based on the practices of surrounding nations). God rejected those sacrifices because original sin existed in them already. It was inherited from their first father, Adam. If these babies did not have sin, then they would have resurrected after being sacrificed, because “the wages of sin is death.” But only Christ resurrected. This proves that only Christ’s blood can truly remit sins. To sacrifice another for sin, such as a baby, a young virgin, one’s own sibling, and etc, is simply committing an act of murder. They already had sin, they died in sin, and there was no atonement for the one who sacrificed that person in hopes of being purified from sin. Life application: There are certain verses in the Bible that one would do well to remember because they carry key doctrine. When using such verses while discussing the gospel, salvation, sin, atonement, substitution, and many other major points, they will shed light on the subject matter. Hebrews 9:22 is one such verse. Many churches will no longer speak about the blood atonement mentioned in the Bible. But God’s word proclaims the necessity of shedding blood to atone for sin and – as clearly as could ever be stated – this verse avers “without shedding of blood there is no remission.” It is not those things cherished by many in today’s world which save. The bald guy on TV is completely wrong when he jangles a handful of gold and says, “This is the sound of security; this is the sound of gold.” When the gold is gone, those who trusted in it will be condemned for their misplaced trust. Rather, it is only through the precious blood of Christ that atonement for sin can be made. Don’t miss this key point. When God looks at a faithful believer, He sees the death of His Son and His shed blood – the Just for the unjust. Praise God! As is stated in Exodus, so the same truth carries through in us today, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you...” Lord God, how can it be that You would send Jesus to the cross in our place? We have failed you since birth, and each day we continue to fall short of Your glory. And yet, You opened Your heart to us, giving us the precious blood of Christ as our atonement. Thank You for having covered us with His perfect righteousness. Glory belongs to You alone! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 12, 2019 23:36:50 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:23, 12 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, JANUARY 12, 2019 Saturday, 12 January 2019 Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. Hebrews 9:23 The word, “Therefore,” is given based on everything mentioned in the previous seven verses concerning the shedding of the blood of the covenant-victim and the purification of the things associated with the tabernacle, its implements, and its rites. Those verses ended with, “And according to the law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission.” With that understood, he says, “Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens.” Note: The archaic KJV incorrectly says “patterns” instead of “copies.” This is exactly the opposite of what is occurring. It is the heavenly which is the pattern, and it is the earthly which is a copy. See Exodus 25:9 and Hebrews 8:5. If you use this version, a margin note correcting the error is necessary. These “copies of the things in the heavens,” meaning the earthly tabernacle and associated implements, “should be purified with these.” The word “these” is speaking of the blood of purification obtained from the covenant-victims. There was defilement in these earthly things, and they required a sacrifice of atonement to cover their defilement. However, this entire process was only typical of Christ’s greater work. As the author notes, “but the heavenly things.” That is referring to those things associated with the true and more perfect tabernacle in heaven which is the pattern for the earthly copies. These are purified “with better sacrifices than these.” First, the word “sacrifices” is plural. Though Christ died once (see Romans 6:10 and Hebrews 9:26), the author’s intent is to show that His single sacrifice is the fulfillment of all of the various types of sacrifices found under the Old Covenant, and which were typical of His one-time sacrifice. Everything of the past which foreshadowed Christ is summed up in His one act. Secondly, this raises an obvious question – “Why would the heavenly things require sacrifices for purification?” Scholars debate this, and several interesting suggestions have been proposed, but which miss the fact that these are spiritual realities in heaven, not physical things. Under the Old Covenant, the author has already said that all things were sprinkled with blood in order to purify them, including the people (9:19). As we are the purpose of Christ’s coming, meaning the redemption of man, then it is necessary that we be purified by Christ’s shed blood. Christ presented Himself before the Father to purify those things which will be accepted into His eternal realm – His people, who are being built into “a dwelling place of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22). Though Ephesians is written to the Gentile led church and Hebrews is written to the Hebrew people, the same truth applies to both. A purification is being accomplished in us which was only prefigured in the earthly sanctuary of the Old Covenant. Life application: The Bible tells of the heavenly dwelling – perfect in all ways, but entrance to it comes at a cost – “But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life” (Revelation 21:27). In order to be accepted into God’s paradise, one must be cleansed by the blood of the Lamb. To reject His gracious sacrifice is to remain outside of God’s favor and outside of His eternal dwelling. Come to Christ, be purified through His shed blood, and be reconciled to God once and for all eternity. Glorious! O God, You are glorious. You have given us access to You once again through the blood of the Lamb. If we are willing to accept the truth of Your word, and to come to You through Christ Jesus, we shall be reconciled to You for all eternity. You have done it all, and You ask us to simply believe. How gracious You are to Your people! Thank You, O God! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 13, 2019 23:22:15 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:24, 13 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, JANUARY 13, 2019 Sunday, 13 January 2019 For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; Hebrews 9:24 The word, “For,” explains what was said in the previous verse concerning “the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these” being purified. The purification that Christ brought about will be explained through the end of the chapter, but the final point of it is found in verse 9:28 which says that “Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many.” This is the ultimate point of the sacrificial system. Sin is the problem, shed blood (proving the death of the covenant-victim) was what was ordained to atone for sin. The types and shadows of the Levitical priesthood in regards to this only looked forward to the actual work of Christ. The Levitical priests entered into an earthly sanctuary, but it says that “Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands.” Thus, the earthly, physical sacrifices which were conducted by the Levitical priests were an inferior type of sacrifice conducted in an inferior place. What they did simply prefigured Christ. Year by year, the anticipation was that the Messiah would come and fulfill these types and shadows. Finally, He did come. But in the fulfillment of His work, His blood wasn’t presented in these places made with hands, “which are copies of the true.” Again, the author reveals (as he has already done) that the earthly sanctuary was a copy of something greater, something heavenly. As he says, it wasn’t into these copies, “but into heaven itself.” It shouldn’t be supposed that the physical structures that were made are physically seen again in heaven. Rather, the physical structures represented spiritual realities found in Christ. The colors, shapes, sizes, etc. of all of the things of the sanctuary pointed to spiritual realities. For example, the type of wood chosen for the Ark of the Covenant pictured the incorruptible nature of Christ’s humanity. This doesn’t mean the physical nature of His body, but the spiritual incorruption of sinlessness. It is true that the spiritual incorruption then translates into an incorruptible physical body, but it is the spiritually incorrupt nature of Christ which is being conveyed to us. The same is true with all of these physical things. They represented spiritual truths, not corresponding physical things in heaven. The thought then continues in the next words, which say, “now to appear in the presence of God for us.” God is Spirit; He does not have parts. God is. Therefore, Christ’s death, in fulfillment of the Mosaic Covenant, conveyed a spiritual reality. The sins of those who anticipated Christ under the Mosaic Law were atoned for, once and forever. At the same time, a New Covenant was initiated for those who receive this atonement. All of this is done by Christ in the presence of God. As God is – without change of any kind – then this is a one time and for all time atonement; it is eternal. The author will continue to explain this in the coming verses. Life application: Christ said during His ministry, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17). People misinterpret this verse and teach that the law is still in effect for believers; it is not. The law is in effect for all persons until they come to Christ. When one comes to Christ in faith that He fulfilled the law on their behalf, the law is then set aside and a new law takes effect. This is the purpose of Jesus’ death. In one mighty act, Jesus fulfilled the Old Covenant, set it aside for believers, and also established the New Covenant. The cross then is God’s glorious way of demonstrating His infinite grace, truth, mercy, love, holiness, righteousness, and justice. All of these eternal and unchanging attributes are reconciled at the cross of Jesus. Without this moment, a tension between these attributes remains between God and man, resulting in eternal separation and condemnation. Ensure you understand this! If you misinterpret Jesus’ statement concerning the law, you will feel bound to it when in fact you are not. If you misinterpret God’s eternal nature, then you will miss the point, and you will flounder in an ocean of uncertainty. Instead, have faith in Christ and be at peace with God! What an amazing gift, O God! That you would unite with Your creation in the Person of Jesus in order to reconcile us to You. It’s beyond comprehension how glorious You are and we can only shout praises and thanks to You for sending Jesus to reveal that glory in a way in which we can comprehend! Hallelujah and Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 15, 2019 0:04:30 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:25, 14 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 2019 Monday, 14 January 2019 ...not that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another— Hebrews 9:25 The High Priest of Israel had to enter the Most Holy Place in the sanctuary once each year and follow the exacting details prescribed in Leviticus 16. Included in these rituals was the presentation of the blood of animals. One was to atone for his sin and one was to atone for the sins of the people. This ritual was absolutely necessary because, as verse 9:22 said, “without shedding of blood there is no remission.” As it says in this verse, He offered his own. This is the idea behind substitutionary atonement – one life is given on behalf of another. With this understanding, the specific idea of this verse is that of entry into heaven. In other words, though not in the Greek, the idea is connected to the previous verse and should mentally bring to thought, “not that He should enter to offer Himself often.” The two verses, placed side by side, will show this – For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; …not that He should enter to offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another— Christ gave of Himself once on the cross of Calvary, and at that time He entered into heaven. However, every entry into the Most Holy Place (which was a foreshadowing of Christ’s entry into heaven) required that the blood of an individual sacrifice be presented by the high priest. Therefore, if Christ was required to offer Himself every time He entered into heaven, He would have to “offer Himself often.” This will be stated explicitly in the next verse to come. Such was not the case though. Unlike the high priest who “enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another,” Christ’s entry was a one time and for all time presentation. Life application: In contrast to the annual ritual conducted by Israel’s High Priest, Jesus did not enter heaven through a repeated offering of Himself. Please remember that life is forfeit because of sin – either your life, or that of a Substitute. And that Substitute must be acceptable to God. It is by Jesus’ death alone that we are reconciled to our heavenly Father. Be sure to receive God’s offer of pardon through Christ! Heavenly Father, Your word tells us that Christ Jesus entered into heaven once for the forgiveness of our sins. He did not need to suffer many times for us, coming again and again with the proof of another time of suffering. He died once for our sins, and that one entry into Your presence was sufficient for all of man’s sins from Adam until the end of the age. How powerful is the blood of Christ! May we not fail to receive the gift of eternal life, granted through His one great act on Calvary’s cross. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 16, 2019 0:45:16 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:26, 15 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2019 Tuesday, 15 January 2019 He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. Hebrews 9:26 The previous verses said that Christ did not enter a holy place made with hands, but heaven itself, and this was “not that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another” (9:25). If this were so, “He then would have had to suffer often.” A repeated entry for purification from sin would necessitate a repeated sacrifice for sin. Thus, every time he entered for sin, he would have to suffer and die, even “since the foundation of the world.” What this implies is that Christ’s sacrifice, which occurred four thousand years after the foundation of the world, was sufficient to cover the sins of those who anticipated Him in faith even back to the first sin committed since the world was founded. That is why Adam and Eve were covered by the Lord with the tunics of skin which He made for them (Genesis 3:21). It was a symbolic covering of Christ’s righteousness in anticipation of Christ’s coming. Adam demonstrated faith through the naming of his wife Eve (in anticipation of the coming Messiah and the granting of life once again), and God covered Adam because of that act. Thus, even from the “foundation of the world,” faith in Christ was sufficient to atone for sin. This is then confirmed in the last book of the Bible where Jesus is called “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” Peter states the same thing in his first epistle – “He indeed was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you 21 who through Him believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.” 1 Peter 1:20, 21 This logic is confirmed, and it is explicitly stated, by the author next with the words, “but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.” The author uses the term, “the end of the ages,” to signify the time “when the former ages had reached their moral consummation under the old Levitical economy. Comp. Hebrews 1:2” (Vincent’s Word Studies). This thought is explained by Paul in Galatians – “Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all, 2 but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father. 3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world. 4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” Galatians 4:1-5 In His coming in the fullness of time, Christ did not need to suffer repeatedly. God accepts the faith of those who anticipated the coming Messiah, and He accepts the faith of those who believe that Jesus is the Messiah who has come. His sacrifice on Calvary’s cross is a one time and for all time act. To think on what is being described, a review of several thoughts which led up to this verse would be helpful: 1) Blood must be shed before forgiveness can be granted; something must die for sin – the sinner because of his sin (this is implied), or a substitute in place of the sinner. 2) Blood was required to purify the people, the sanctuary, and all of the implements associated with the rites of the sanctuary. 3) Jesus’ sacrifice was not made to purify the earthly sanctuary, nor heaven (which is already pure). It was to provide proof of a substitutionary death on our behalf as a covering for man’s sin. 4) Jesus’ sacrifice is once for all time, and it provides eternal cleansing from sin. All of this demonstrates the superiority of the New Covenant. It also clearly shows that salvation is eternal. No sin committed after salvation can separate the person from God because there is no imputation of sin for one who is in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:19). Once a person is purified, he or she is eternally clean, and thus free from condemnation. Were this not so, as Arminianism teaches, then Christ’s blood would be insufficient for any sin. Life application: Christ suffered once, the godly for the ungodly; the righteous for the unrighteous. There is nothing more that can add righteousness to an individual. His blood, therefore, is fully able to perfect those who have accepted God’s offer of peace through Him. As this verse makes abundantly clear, He has appeared “once at the end of the ages … to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.” As Paul jubilantly proclaims – “For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.” Romans 11:36 O God, from the first sin of man, and throughout all of human history, there has been one, and only one, true Sacrifice for sin – Jesus. Your word is written and proclaims that nothing else is sufficient. The types and shadows of the past are fulfilled in Him, and it is by faith in His coming, or in His having come, that all sin is atoned for. Thank You, O God, that Christ’s suffering and death has released us from the penalty of sin, once and forever. Thank You for Jesus our Lord. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 17, 2019 2:14:37 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:27, 16 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2019 Wednesday, 16 January 2019 And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, Hebrews 9:27 The author, after speaking of Christ’s death which was “to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself,” now states something which is considered a biblical axiom. He says, “And it is appointed for men to die once.” This was ordained in Genesis 3 after the fall of man. It is an appointment which will be met at the time determined by God, and its effects are final. Further, it is an appointment “for men.” Adam is the federal head of man, and all in Adam (male and female) are included in this appointment. It is true that Scripture records several instances where someone dies and is brought back to life. And it is true that people die today, but they are resuscitated by CPR or in other ways. But what is stated here is no less true. Those people who died and were brought back to life in the Bible were raised in order to glorify God. They are not exceptions, in the sense that God determined they would die in order for Him to demonstrate His power over death. When a prophet prayed for a dead child (for example, see 2 Kings 4:8-37), he did so in the name of the Lord. It is the Lord who healed. When Jesus came, he raised the dead under His own authority (for example: see John 11:1-44). And, when an apostle raised a dead person (for example: see Acts 4:36-43), he did so under the authority of Christ Jesus. Taken together, it is understood from such accounts that Jesus is the Lord (Yehovah) incarnate. This was the purpose of these displays of raising the dead. Each of these eventually went on to die again in the normal manner. When a person dies today, and he is later brought back through medical procedures, it cannot be considered a resurrection, but rather a medical healing. There is a point where the body can no longer be resuscitated. At that point, the door is closed and it is final. The only exception in human history, outside of those miraculous restorations intended to bring light to the nature of Christ (to come or in Person), is the resurrection of Christ Himself. But it doesn’t change the fact that He died. After His death, His life was judged. God determined that His life was sinless, and He was resurrected. The wages of sin is death; He had no sin; and therefore, it was impossible for death to hold Him (see Acts 2:24). The word, “once,” in this verse is in the emphatic position. The point of the emphasis, and the purpose of the entire thought, is to explain what has been previously submitted in the previous verses. Christ died once, and that death was sufficient for all sin ever committed. He does not have to suffer often, but has put away sin forever through His one all-sufficient atoning death. Concerning the death of men (meaning all humans), the author continues with, “but after this the judgment.” This is another inescapable aspect of the existence of humanity. We are born, we live, we die, and then there will be a judgment. Christ’s life was judged and He was found without sin. There will be a similar judgment upon all humans. However, there is also the doctrine known as the rapture. That speaks of a time when believers in Christ will be translated to glory without actually physically dying. How can this be, and yet this verse here in Hebrews still be true? The answer to that is found in Paul’s words of Romans 6 – “For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, 6 knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. 7 For he who has died has been freed from sin. 8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9 knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. 10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11 Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:5-11 The judgment spoken of by the author in Hebrews is that of judgment upon sin. It is one which leads to either condemnation or salvation. As believers in Christ have had their sins judged at the cross of Christ, we have “died to sin” through Christ who “died to sin.” We are positionally in Him, and thus we can never spiritually die again. We have died once, and though our body may die physically, we must – it is impossible for it not to happen – resurrect someday to eternal life. For those who are alive at the rapture, they will simply skip the physical death part and they will be translated to their glorified state. Paul explains this in 1 Corinthians 15 and in 1 Thessalonians 4. Another point which is tied into this verse concerning death and judgment is that Scripture records two people were translated to heaven without dying – Enoch, the seventh man from Adam, and Elijah the prophet. We can infer from several passages in the Bible (both Old and New Testaments) that it is probably these two men who will be back during the tribulation period to witness to the world as stated in Revelation 11:3 – “And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.” However, they will be killed as is recorded in verse 7 of the same chapter. After this, they will be raised to life and taken to heaven in the presence of an unbelieving world. One thing is for certain, neither of these men will be Moses. That would be contrary to the tenor of this verse in Hebrews, but it is still proposed by scholars who incorrectly analyze the verse in order to justify their presupposition that Moses is one of the two witnesses. In the end, the verse does not bear complication in any of the scenarios above when taken in the context of Scripture, and in light of what God is doing in redemptive history. It is a verse which is absolute in the truths it conveys. The context of seeming exceptions (such as those who are “dead to sin” in Christ being raptured) dispels any thought of the verse being faulty in any way. Life application: This is an often quoted verse during sermons – and rightfully so! We try our best to not think of death, but it is coming for each and every one of us. Death is awaiting all people and we need to be prepared to meet our Maker. And the duration of our stay, even if not cut short, is not a long one – “The days of our lives are seventy years; And if by reason of strength they are eighty years, Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; For it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” Psalm 90:10 In comparison to eternity, seventy or eighty years is utterly insignificant. Are you willing to step out in faith during these brief years and live a life of holiness and honor to Christ Jesus? He paid the greatest price imaginable to save you from condemnation. Consider this and determine today to bring credit and glory to His name during your brief and tenuous stay here! Call on Christ, and you will be – from that point on – dead to sin. Then live out the rest of your days acting as if it is true. May your life be in accord with the position which God has granted you in His beloved Son. Lord, as the Psalm says, “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Let us not fail You in our duties. Strengthen us to bring Your name the renown that it deserves. Praises, glory, and honor belong to You alone! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 18, 2019 0:29:00 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 9:28, 17 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019 Thursday, 17 January 2019 ...so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation. Hebrews 9:28 There is an article before “Christ” which is left out of most translations. The Greek reads, “...so the Christ having been offered once.” It is speaking of the offering God made, through Christ Jesus as the anointed One of God. This then complements what was stated four times during this chapter where Christ is said to have “offered Himself.” There is a harmonious working between the two ideas. God offered the Christ, but Christ also offered Himself. It reveals a perfect agreement within the Godhead concerning what would be accomplished when the Christ was offered by God “once to bear the sins of many.” This offering of the Christ by God for the sins of many indicates that not all will be saved. Though He potentially died for all, the offering actually only applies to those who come to Him. This bearing of the sins of the people was spoken of by Isaiah many centuries earlier – “Surely He has borne our griefs And carried our sorrows; Yet we esteemed Him stricken, Smitten by God, and afflicted. 5 But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:4-6 After His resurrection, Jesus marveled that those who saw Him crucified, and then who heard of the resurrection, had failed to understand the very words of Isaiah and the other prophets who spoke of these things – “Then He said to them, ‘O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?’ 27 And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” Luke 24:25-27 The law itself pointed to the coming work of Christ, demonstrating that the law needed something more in order for the people to be truly reconciled to God. In other words, if the law spoke of the need of such things, then the law was only an anticipatory step towards something greater which was still yet ahead. For those who accept this, they have a better hope than the law could ever provide. The author explains this as he closes out the chapter with the words, “To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.” Here we have the better hope found in Christ, and which is seen by placing verses 27 and 28 side by side – 27 – And as it is appointed for men to die once /// but after this the judgment, 28 – so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many /// To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation. Men have an appointment with death. At some point after that, they will receive the judgment of God. As all have sinned, there must be judgment on that sin. As the law was unable to cure the sin problem, without something more, all would remain under sin and, thus, all would be condemned. That is why, even after the giving of the law, Christ still needed to come. The law only looked forward to His coming. And so the Christ came, offered by God and having offered Himself, to bear the sins of those who would come to Him. And just as there must be judgment after death, so Christ’s death is reckoned to us for our judgment. This is why Paul says in Romans 6 that we have “died with Christ.” Christ’s death was for the sin of man. For those who come to Christ, they die with Him, and their judgment is rendered at that time. That is why, whether alive or asleep (meaning having died) in Christ, we have received our judgment. And that is why the author can then say, “To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.” In Christ, the judgment for condemnation is done. There is no expectancy of being condemned, but rather He will appear the second time, apart from sin (which has been judged in Him), for salvation. This is the marvel of what God has done for us in Christ. We have gone from condemnation to salvation. It is finished. With that understanding, there is still the truth that Hebrews is directed to the Jewish people. And so there are actually a few things which must be understood. First, the second coming referred to here is not speaking of the rapture. He is dealing with the literal return of Christ to the earth. The words hold true for those in Christ, and the rapture is when it will be realized in those who await Him. However, the salvation that is specifically referred to here is the salvation of Israel. When they call out to Him, as a nation, they will be saved and cleansed. This is referred to in Zechariah 12:10-14, and then it is expressly stated in Zechariah 13:1 – “In that day a fountain shall be opened for the house of David and for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin and for uncleanness.” The sin of Israel will be dealt with when Christ comes, the second time, apart from sin. He will come to them for salvation, and thus “all of Israel will be saved” (Romans 11:26). Paul’s words are not to be taken that all (every single Jew) will be saved, but that all of Israel who is alive when Christ returns will be saved. Therefore, “those who eagerly wait for Him,” is speaking of those who have come to faith in Christ. It is those in the church now, but it is also those after the rapture. The multiple levels of what is going on in Scripture are all realized in the work of Christ. Life application: The truths found in Christ apply to all who are in Christ, but the context of what is being spoken of must always be considered. As the book of Hebrews is directed specifically to the Jewish people, the truths revealed there, many of which apply to those in the church now, must first and foremost be considered in light of what God is doing and will continue to do in and for Israel. Context is king, and it must be maintained in order to have a proper understanding of what is going on in God’s unfolding plan of redemptive history. This verse, along with so many others in Hebrews, clearly points to eternal salvation. If in fact we are set apart from sin unto salvation by His death, then His return for us is a guarantee. Are you stressing over sins you have committed since coming to Christ? Are you scared of condemnation because of the words of a pope, priest, or pastor? Put those fears to rest once and for all. Yes, you will be judged for your waywardness, but not for condemnation, only for loss of rewards. Christ’s death has secured your eternal destiny. All we need to do is accept His work and trust that it is sufficient! Lord God, help us to keep our evaluation of Your word in its intended context. When we get away from that, we will certainly err in our theology. And so, give us the wisdom to understand what You are saying, to whom You are saying it, and to not pull verses out of those parameters. From there, we will certainly be doing what is right according to Your wonderful, perfect word. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 19, 2019 0:09:00 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 10:1, 18 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2019 Friday, 18 January 2019 For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect. Hebrews 10:1 Chapter 10 continues with the idea of the sacrifices found under the Mosaic Law which have been contrasted to the more perfect sacrifice of Christ in fulfillment of the Old Covenant, and which then introduced the New. The author will now explain the deficiency which is found in the law (meaning the Mosaic Law) beginning with, “For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come.” Here we have two ideas which have already been stated separately, and which are now brought into one verse. The first is the “shadow” of the law in distinction to the reality found in the New Covenant. That was stated in verse 8:5, where the author said, “who serve the copy and shadow of the heavenly things.” The second speaks of “the good things to come.” That was seen in verse 9:11, which said, “But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come.” This “shadow of the good things to come” is then explained as being “not the very image of the things.” What Moses was told to construct, and what was then used by the people for their religious rites, was a shadowy reflection of that which is found in the coming Messiah. The Greek word, translated as “image” here, gives the sense of a representation, just as a statue represents the person who is being emulated. What was found in the sanctuary of Israel was only a shadow of such an image; nothing more than a vague representation of the reality found in Christ. Because of this, the author continues by saying that it “can never with these same sacrifices.” Here it speaks of the sacrifices referred to in verses 9:12, 13, meaning the blood of calves and bulls and goats, as well as the ashes of a heifer. These, along with any other sacrifices mandated under the law, were offered to God, but they were only shadows given in anticipation of the time Jesus would come and fulfill what they only anticipated. Because of this, they were repeatedly made. As the author continues to say about them, the people would continually offer them, year by year. What he is doing is demonstrating that because of their being continually offered, they actually accomplished nothing. If they did accomplish something, the people would be cleansed, purified, and perfected, but they weren’t. This is evident in his final words of the verse. He says that they can never “make those who approach perfect.” How he comes to this conclusion is obvious, but it won’t be revealed until the next two verses are given. For now, he simply takes it as an axiom that the sacrifices were wholly ineffectual in doing anything other than typifying Christ Jesus and His more perfect sacrifice. If this is true, and it is, then this means that the entire system of the Mosaic law is also ineffectual in bringing people to a state of true holiness. If the sacrifices which were mandated for violation of the law couldn’t purify the people, and all people under the law were required to observe them, then – 1) They could not have been perfect before their observance. If they were, they would not have been required to observe them for their atonement. 2) As they did not perfect them after they were made, then they were ineffectual in doing what they were given to do. Thus, 3) In order for those under the law to be perfected, the institution of a New Covenant with a more perfect Sacrifice must be necessary. And therefore, 4) If a such a New Covenant is introduced, the Old Covenant, by default, must become obsolete for those who are brought into the New Covenant. Life application: The author is, once again, demonstrating the utter folly of going back to observance of the Mosaic Law in any way, shape, or form. It was an ineffective system which could never perfect anyone. As perfection of the individual can (and does) come through Christ, then who in their right mind would come to Christ and then return to those things which were made obsolete by Christ? Come to Christ, rest in Christ, and continue to rest in Christ forever. Be done with those things which can never bring us closer to God. Yes, Lord God! We are ever so grateful for what you have done on our behalf. We are made perfect, not through repetitive sacrifices and law observance, but through Your mighty work, accomplished on our behalf through Christ Jesus. To You we cry out, “Hallelujah!” Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 19, 2019 23:59:34 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 10:2, 19 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 2019 Saturday, 19 January 2019 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? For the worshipers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins. Hebrews 10:2 The Greek word translated as “For then” is one given to, “Assume what precedes is true, and understand what follows to be appropriate and applicable” (HELPS Word Studies). The author has just been speaking of the sacrifices which were offered “continually year by year.” He noted that they could never “make those who approach perfect.” The reason for this is that if they could, then would they not have ceased to be offered?” The Greek is more forceful, using a present participle. It should say, “cease being offered.” The idea is the constant, unending stream of sacrifices which is being highlighted. Despite this, the question is obvious, and it shows the inherent imperfection in the annual rite. The very fact that the Day of Atonement came about every year, and that the people needed to observe it every year, actually highlighted that it was incapable of bringing those who observed it to perfection. If those sacrifices could have made them perfect, they would, in fact, have ceased to be offered. This is in contrast to Christ. His offering was a one-time for all-time offering for sin as verse 9:28 so poignantly noted. The author next continues after his question by pronouncing the reality of the situation – Question: For then would they not have ceased to be offered? Statement of fact: For the worshipers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins. If, in fact, the Day of Atonement rites could have made those who approach perfect, those who observed it “would have had no more consciousness of sins.” The author, using the term, “once purified,” shows that no such one-time purification took place. The idea of the word “perfect” doesn’t mean “almost perfect.” Rather, there would have been a single observance of the Day of Atonement for any given individual, and that person would then be perfected; no longer needing to go back for a sin-covering tune-up. But the high priest was high priest for life, and he had to sacrifice for his own sin each and every time he went in. If he wasn’t perfected, then neither were those on whose behalf he ministered. The very rites performed witness to their inability to resolve the situation they were supposed to resolve. The “consciousness of sin” spoken of here does not mean “memory,” as if there is no more memory of having sinned. It rather speaks of an understanding of the need for atonement for sins committed after the sacrifice. In other words, and as an example, one could think of one’s own health – If a person had a sickness that might lead to death, he would obviously go to a doctor to receive the cure for his ailment. If the person was cured, the question proposed by the author here would then be valid. If he went one time and was cured forever, never to get sick and possibly die again, then he would never need to go to a doctor again. He would have passed from being mortal to immortal. However, if he could get sick again, then – if and when he got sick – he would need to go again for treatment. This would demonstrate that he was not perfected by the doctor each time he went. Anytime a sickness arose, it would be a reminder of his mortal state. However, if he was cured, one-time and for all-time, then he would no longer have a consciousness of his mortality. This doesn’t mean he wouldn’t remember that he was once mortal, but he would no longer have a consciousness of bearing that mortal state. This is what the author is saying about our fallen state. We have an infection, sin, which under the Law of Moses could not be completely cured. It only received a temporary fix, but it never perfected those who came for their hoped-for cure. Taking the verses (Hebrews 10:1, 2) and simply changing the appropriate words to physical health reveals the spiritual state of Israel under the law – “For the hospital, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same medicines, which they administer continually (any time that a person got sick), make those who approach immortal. For then would they not have ceased to be administered? For the mortals, once cured completely, would have had no more consciousness of their mortal state.” Think of it! If the wages of sin is death, and Jesus is the cure for that state, then when one comes to Jesus, he goes from sin, leading to death, to no sin, having obtained immortality. The cure is Christ. Life application: As with every newly introduced thought in the book of Hebrews, the author assures, and reassures, the reader of the concept of freedom from guilt. He also assures the reader of eternal salvation. In Christ, all things are made new. Jesus asks you to leave all of your feelings of guilt at His cross, and then to accept that you are saved. Jesus Christ did not die to grant eternal insecurity, but rather eternal life. If someone tells you that you can lose your salvation, gently remind them that they have no idea what they are talking about. Then tell them to go get sound theology, and to stop harming the faith of those who have been, once and forever, purified by the precious blood of Christ. Who would dare call the sufficiency of His atonement into question? Make the effort today to trust Christ, and to trust that He has eternally cleansed you from your offenses. O God we thank you for the complete and eternal cleansing power of the cross. Glory, honor, and majesty belong to You for the mighty deliverance You brought about on our behalf. Truly no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him! But now in Christ, we have seen that marvel. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 20, 2019 21:52:19 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 10:3, 20 January 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, JANUARY 20, 2019 Sunday, 20 January 2019 But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. Hebrews 10:3 Verse 10:1 spoke of the “same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year,” and how they were insufficient to perfect the worshipers who made them. Instead, they did exactly the opposite of what the people thought they were doing. They judged themselves free of sin and guilt because of them, but in the sacrifices there was actually a reminder to them that they were sin-filled. As the author says, “in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year.” The very fact that these sacrifices continued to be made each year, it demonstrated to the people that they had an ongoing need to have their sins atoned for. This is exactly what happens in churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples all around the world every day. It is also the same thing that happens in the hearts of the people who deny an all-wise Creator. When they do acts of charity for others – for whatever reason – they are attempting to justify themselves in the presence of God (whether they acknowledge Him as such or not). A good example of incorrect justification is Canon 10 of the Council of Trent, to which Roman Catholicism adheres – “If any one saith, that by faith alone the impious is justified; in such wise as to mean, that nothing else is required to co-operate in order to the obtaining the grace of Justification, and that it is not in any way necessary, that he be prepared and disposed by the movement of his own will; let him be anathema.” The claim here is that man is not justified by the work of Jesus Christ alone. Instead, the claim is made that there is more than faith that is “required to co-operate in order to the obtaining the grace of Justification.” It goes on to say that anyone who claims they are justified in this manner (by faith in Christ alone) is anathema. In fact, making this statement is, by default, calling 1) Jesus anathema; 2) Paul anathema; 3) the Bible insufficient as a source for understanding holiness, and thus not God’s infallible revelation to man. Our sacrifices – whether in the temple of old or in our charitable deeds of today – can never justify us, nor add to our justification. Instead, we are “justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24). Life application: The words of the Roman Catholic church, which state that more than faith is required for “the obtaining of the grace of Justification,” are a logical contradiction. One cannot merit grace. By its very definition, grace is unmerited favor. When listening to, or reading the works of, scholars and theologians, don’t assume that because they have a certain degree, a special title, or speak for a certain church or denomination that this means they are speaking out biblical truth. One of the greatest errors of all is to believe someone simply because they speak in an authoritative way, or because they fill an authoritative position. Proper doctrine comes from Scripture, and from it alone. Commentaries are often a great help in understanding what is being said, but they must be presented in accord with Scripture. Lord Jesus, let us not miss the mark. We are truly, surely, and completely justified by faith in You and Your work alone. Let us not be so prideful or haughty as to ever claim we could add to what You have done in order to stand right in the presence of God. All glory – every last bit of it – belongs to You alone. Amen.
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