July 27, 2021 — A Study on the Book of Hebrews

“Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being. Every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices, and so it was necessary for this one also to have something to offer. If he were on earth, he would not be a priest, for there are already priests who offer the gifts prescribed by the law. They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises.” Hebrews 8:1-6

Hebrews 8:6 is a pivotal verse in the epistle. It closes the first major argument. The book was written to prove the following proposition: The New Testament in Jesus’ blood is superior to and takes the place of the First Testament in animal blood. The writer has proved this to be true on the basis of pure logic and the Old Testament Scriptures. Using the logical argument that a superior workman turns out a superior product, he has shown that Messiah, the Founder of the New Testament is better than the founders of the First Testament, who were the prophets, angels, Moses, Joshua, and Aaron. Therefore, the testament He brought in is superior to and takes the place of theirs.” (Commentary on Hebrews 8:4-6, Precept Austin)

Jesus is both our sacrifice – and our gift. Jesus sacrificed his life so that we all can have life. As such, one of Christ’s many gifts, if not his greatest gift to us, is his gift of Grace. Now you may ask, what is Grace? Well, that is a great question. So let me answer that for you. Grace is unmerited love. Grace is the unexpected gift when you least expect it or deserve it. Grace is receiving love when you feel the most unloved – or the most unworthy of love. This is what Jesus gives to you – and to me.

We get many gifts throughout our life – at Christmas, at weddings, at birthdays, and at anniversaries. Those gifts are temporary and transitory. The gift of Jesus and the Grace he offers us is permanent and eternal. It is a gift we must cherish often.

Pastor Dave