Old versus New

Hebrews 9:1-10

Inspired thots

v1-10 talk about the old covenant, the old style of worship, the old place of worship.

It is surprising to read, or is it a fresh reminder, that the priests of old enter the Holy of Holies only ONCE a year? and with a sacrifice of blood or a blood offering.

Wow! coming to God only ONCE a year... perhaps the time is now that people only come to God once a year too.. Christmas. How sad! My God is so loving and personal; why should I meet up with Him once a year? well, busyness and own agenda usually keep us away from God. Yes, just like when I go back north once a year, giving a lot of excuses not to go. I empathise.

Next, the priest goes in with a blood offering; serious, man. Bringing the best is important when meeting up with God, even if it is a sacrifice. Give till it hurts, as the saying goes. Yes, Lord, this Christmas I must reconcile with the north. You know what I mean, Lord; You put that thot into me.

v7 - the priest offered a sacrifice for himself and the people - this is the amazing part - for sins committed in IGNORANCE. It is not for sins that are purposedly acted on with full knowledge. It is a time to seek forgiveness of sins that were done without the conscience being pricked.

That is really purity (holiness) before God. Before He can accept His people, they must be cleansed of every sin, even if done in ignorance. 1 Peter 1:15 Be holy for I am holy.

v8 - the Holy Spirit
He is my teacher; He reminds me and reveals the things of God to me as to God's people.
John 14:26 and Romans 8:26 records the working of the Holy Spirit.

External regulations and practices cannot clear the conscience before a worshipper of God draws near to Him. The Holy Spirit must reveal and prompt. Yes, Maranatha, Holy Spirit!