Chapter 8 Summary
- In Hebrews 8:1-5, the writer sums up the point of the previous chapter. Jesus is a far superior High Priest than those under the old covenant.
- Jesus is the High Priest of God’s people under the new covenant, and He has been exalted to the right hand of God (Hebrews 8:1). He serves in a better sanctuary. The priests under the old covenant ministered in the earthly sanctuary (temple), but Jesus ministers in the heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 8:2).
- The service of those priests under the Law was a mere shadow of things to come (Hebrews 8:3-6). Jesus has a more excellent ministry. He is also the meditator of a better covenant that contains better promises.
- Hebrews 8:7 marks a transition in the book. Up to this point, Hebrews has been focused on the “superiority of Christ.” Jesus is superior to angels, prophets, Moses, Joshua, and Aaron. The book will now shift to talking about the covenant instituted by Christ. Since Jesus’ work is superior to anything found under the Law, it should only make sense that His covenant is as well.
- Hebrews 8:7-13 primarily deal with the better promises found under the new covenant. The prophet Jeremiah foretold (600 years prior) a day when the “first” would be replaced with the “second.” This prophecy is found in Jeremiah 31:31-34. .
Chapter 8 Questions
- What was the main point of the teaching found in Hebrews 7? See Hebrews 8:1.
- In Hebrews 8:2-6, what differences does the writer give between the service of Jesus as High Priest and the priests under the Law?
- Why was a second covenant needed (Hebrews 8:7)?
- What makes the second covenant superior to the first (Hebrews 8:8-12)?
- According to Hebrews 8:13, what was about to happen to the old law?
