Chapter 10 Summary
- This chapter transitions from talking about the superiority of the new covenant, to talking about the superiority of Jesus’ sacrifice. One of the significant flaws of the old covenant had to do with the animal sacrifices. That sacrificial system could not fully appease the justice of God. It was merely a shadow of what was to come (Hebrews 10:1).
- If animal sacrifices under the Law were sufficient, then why did it not cleanse the conscious of those offering them (Hebrews 10:2)? Also, why did they have to offer the sacrifices continually? The blood of animals cannot take away sins (Hebrews 10:4)!
- The purpose of the animal sacrifices was to demonstrate the seriousness of sin. Innocent animals were killed because of man’s sin! It also reminded men that a superior sacrifice was needed to make atonement (Hebrews 10:3).
- Hebrews 10:5-9 are quoted from Psalm 40:4-6. They are messianic. Since animal sacrifices could not appease God, He sent His Son to do His will. Jesus would live a sinless life and offer up Himself as a perfect sacrifice. Through the Lord’s death, the first covenant was taken away, and the second was established.
- Hebrews 10:10-18 bring us to the end of the discussion of Jesus’ priesthood. As a perfect High Priest, Jesus has provided a path to complete forgiveness from God.
- Hebrews 10:19-39 provide words of encouragement and warning. The fact that Jesus is our King and High Priest should provoke us to draw near and hold fast to Him.
Chapter 10 Questions
- What could the sacrifices offered under the old covenant not do (Hebrews 10:1-4)?
- Why did Jesus come into the world? What was accomplished by His coming (Hebrews 10:5-18)?
- Since Jesus has offered Himself as a sacrifice for us, what does the writer exhort us to us (Hebrews 10:19-25)? What warning does he give us in Hebrews 10: 26-31?
