The Veil Is Torn:Understanding Our Access To God.

Bible Passage: Hebrews 9:1–9

Hebrews 9:1–9 describes the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, highlighting the limitations of the old covenant and the necessity for a more perfect way to approach God.

This passage reminds believers of the open access we have to God through Christ, encouraging us to embrace our relationship with God rather than returning to ritualistic practices or feelings of separation due to sin.

The passage teaches us that the old covenant's sacrificial system was temporary and foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, which grants us direct access to God's presence.

Through Christ, we no longer need to rely on external rituals for access to God; we have an intimate relationship with Him.

1. Structure: Symbol of Separation

Exodus 25:8 ESV

And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.

The tabernacle held a central position in the Israelite camp, both physically and spiritually. It was placed "in the midst of the camp" with its entrance facing east. The twelve tribes were arranged in a specific order around the tabernacle, with three tribes on each side. The Levites, responsible for the tabernacle's care, camped closest to it on three sides, while Moses, Aaron, and his sons were positioned near the entrance on the east. This arrangement symbolized the Lord's prominence and centrality in the Israelites' lives. The tabernacle's position reminded the people that God lived among them, even as they moved from place to place during their wilderness wanderings. Its central location also taught the important lesson that Christ (symbolized by the tabernacle) should be at the center of believers' lives, determining how they order their activities. The tabernacle's placement and the camp's organization remained consistent, providing a sense of stability and order amidst the uncertainties of nomadic life in the wilderness

Hebrews 9:1–2 ESV

Now even the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly place of holiness. For a tent was prepared, the first section, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence. It is called the Holy Place.

You could begin by exploring the detailed layout and furnishings of the earthly tabernacle described in these verses. Understand how each element serves as a symbolic representation of deeper spiritual truths. Perhaps highlight how this reflects the temporary nature of earthly rituals and prepares for a more direct access to God through Christ. This can emphasize God's desire for relationship beyond ritual.

2. Sacredness: Seeking a Mediator

Hebrews 9:3–5 ESV

Behind the second curtain was a second section called the Most Holy Place, having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron’s staff that budded, and the tablets of the covenant. Above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail.

In the old covenant these were all temporary measures pointing towards a future fulfillment in Christ. These pointed to the holiness of God and the separation caused by sin, highlighting our need for a mediator.

3. Service: Symbolizing Insufficiency

Hebrews 9:6–7 ESV

These preparations having thus been made, the priests go regularly into the first section, performing their ritual duties, but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the unintentional sins of the people.

Consider the continuous work of the priests entering the first room repeatedly as symbolic of the inadequate nature of rituals to grant true forgiveness and access to God. We Contrast this with Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice, showing the insufficiency of earthly mediations, thus placing faith in His finished work.

4. Spirit: Securing Access

Hebrews 9:8–9 ESV

By this the Holy Spirit indicates that the way into the holy places is not yet opened as long as the first section is still standing (which is symbolic for the present age). According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper,

The Holy Spirit uses these symbols to show that direct access to God was not achievable under the old covenant. The tearing of the veil upon Jesus’ death signifies our unhindered access to God now available. Its time to embrace this truth and live in intimate relationship with God.