Moving Into The Fullness

Hebrews 10:1–2 NRSV

Since the law has only a shadow of the good things to come and not the true form of these realities, it can never, by the same sacrifices that are continually offered year after year, make perfect those who approach. Otherwise, would they not have ceased being offered, since the worshipers, cleansed once for all, would no longer have any consciousness of sin?

Only a Shadow of the Real

The law here is described as a shadow of the good things to come. It is declared as not being the true form of the realities. Meaning, it is only a shadow of what being holy is. Only a shadow of what being in right relationship with God really is. As a result, the sacrifices made under the law are not the reality. Christ is the fullness. What does this mean?

Righteousness is not based on the law but based on faith in Jesus Christ.

What is the Purpose of the Law?

Romans 7:7–10 NRSV

What then should we say? That the law is sin? By no means! Yet, if it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin. I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.” But sin, seizing an opportunity in the commandment, produced in me all kinds of covetousness. Apart from the law sin lies dead. I was once alive apart from the law, but when the commandment came, sin revived and I died, and the very commandment that promised life proved to be death to me.

The Law is to Reveal the Sin in You

The law does not bring righteousness. Legalism does not bring righteousness.

Hebrews 11:6 NRSV

And without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Your Greatest Sin is the Sin of Unbelief

Pay attention to what is being said in the text. It is impossible to please God without faith. You can obey God and still not please God because you are obeying God out of legalism not faith.