Hebrews 9

In Colossians 2:17, writing about Old Covenant ceremonies and festivals, Paul states, "These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ." That verse could serve as an explanation of much of what we have been reading in the book of Hebrews... especially chapters 8 and 9. In Hebrews 9, I find much for which to thank God.

(Hebrews 9:11-12) When Christ appeared as a high priest... He entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of His own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption.

Lord Jesus, thank you that in your sovereign wisdom you prepared your people to look forward to a permanent sacrifice even as they were making their temporary sacrifice. Thank you that your sacrifice was "once for all."

(Hebrews 9:14) How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.

Father, there is nothing I could do to ever pay my own debt or rescue my own soul from judgment. Thank you for sending your Son to redeem me and purify my conscience.

(Hebrews 9:22) Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.

Hallelujah, It is finished; the chains of sin are now destroyed                                                                                 Forever glory, ever honor, our God and King, and our Reward

(Hebrews 9:26 & 28) He has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself... Christ will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for Him.

Come Lord Jesus! You are the substance. Everything else is just a shadow. Every good thing on this earth is merely a shadow of your infinite goodness. All beauty points to your beauty. All power reminds us of your omnipotence. All our longing for justice in this world reminds us that there is one coming to judge the living and the dead. Even our suffering and our own death reminds us that there is one who will wipe every tear from our eye. Come quickly Lord Jesus.

  BOBBY PRUITT  |  Lead Pastor

Bobby was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. He is the youngest of 13 children and was the first believer in his family. He graduated from Columbia Bible College and served in churches in North & South Carolina before coming to Texas in 1994. Bobby and Amy have been married since November of 1990 and have 3 children (Riley, Beau, and Emma Grace).