The opening included a series of worship songs, reflecting themes of reliance on God's strength and presence.
Matthew 7:24 was highlighted, emphasizing the importance of building one's life on the teachings of Jesus.
Introduction
Mike, a member of the teaching team, led the congregation in prayer and shared a thought from Hebrews 10:24-25 about the importance of mutual encouragement and gathering together as believers.
Sermon on Hebrews 9 by Pastor Blake
Context and Setup
Historical Background: Explained the significance of the Tabernacle and the temple in Jewish religious life.
Main Theme: The transition from the old covenant rituals to the new covenant in Jesus Christ.
Description of the Tabernacle
Outer Court: Accessible to all Jews; contained the bronze altar and wash basin for sacrifices and ceremonial cleansing.
Holy Place (First Room): Included the lampstand (symbolizing God as light), table of showbread (daily reliance on God), and altar of incense (prayers rising to God).
Most Holy Place (Second Room): Contained the Ark of the Covenant with the tablets of law, golden jar of manna, Aaron's budded staff, and The Mercy Seat with cherubim.
Curtain: Thick veil separating the holy place from the most holy place, symbolizing the separation between God and man.
Priestly Rituals and Their Significance
Day of Atonement: High Priest's ritual described, involving multiple sacrifices and cleansing processes. Significant rituals included entering the most holy place, sprinkling blood, and using a scapegoat to symbolically carry away sins.
Limited Access: Only the high priest could enter the most holy place, and only once a year, indicating the limitations of the old covenant.
Ineffectiveness of Old Sacrifices: These rituals could not perfect the worshippers' conscience or change their hearts; they were symbolic and temporary.
The New Covenant through Jesus
Jesus as High Priest: Unlike the high priests of the old covenant, Jesus entered the heavenly tabernacle to make an eternal sacrifice.
Jesus' Sacrifice: Public and once-for-all, contrasting with the hidden, repeated sacrifices of the old covenant. Jesus' blood cleanses our conscience and offers eternal redemption.
Fulfillment of the Old Covenant Symbols:
Lampstand: Jesus is the Light of the world.
Showbread: Jesus is the Bread of Life.
Curtain: Torn at Jesus' death, symbolizing open access to God.
Ark of the Covenant: Jesus fulfilled the law (tablets), the bread of life (manna), and became the confirmed high priest (Aaron's staff).
Mercy Seat: Jesus' resurrection was witnessed by angels at His tomb, similar to the cherubim at the ark.
Application and Response
Eternal Inheritance: Believers are promised eternal life through Jesus' sacrifice.
Service out of Worship: We serve God not to earn salvation but out of gratitude for what Jesus has done, waiting for His return.
Encouragement: Reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and respond in worship and service.
Conclusion
Encouragement to spread the message of Jesus Christ in daily life, recognizing that Christians are missionaries in all spheres of life.
Closing worship and invitation for prayer and personal response.
Key Verses
Hebrews 9:11-12: Christ entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, securing eternal redemption.
Hebrews 9:27-28: Christ will appear a second time to bring salvation to those waiting for Him.