Hebrews Chapter 8
In this chapter the author begins this beautiful explanation of how we can relate to God through Jesus who is our High Priest. Until Jesus came, mankind had to go to an earthly priest to ask him to mediate on his behalf to God. Now there was a much better way, because a much better priest was now our mediator and our Savior.
Let's Reflect
1. Where does it say that Jesus is now? See also Hebrews 12:2
2. What does verse 5 tell us about the temple that was in Jerusalem and the priests that served in the temple?
3. The author tells us too that if Jesus were on the earth right now, He would not be serving as a priest in the temple because He is the great High Priest and there is no need for a temple any longer. He is our direct access to God the Father. He also calls this a much better covenant. There was a need for a second covenant because the first covenant had what?
4. This second covenant was established with the house of Israel (a reference to the northern kingdom) and with the house of Judah (a reference to the southern kingdom). This new covenant will be fulfilled completely when Jesus establishes His throne. What does verse 11 say about all people in the new covenant and their relationship with Him?
5. A covenant is made between two parties, and it is up to both sides to keep their end of the covenant. That was the issue with the old covenants God established in the Old Testament – mankind did not live up to their end of the covenant. The New Covenant is so beautiful because of what, as seen in verse 12?
We no longer relate to God through a mediator, a priest, or through laws and regulations of the old covenant. As we saw in verse 13 that old covenant is now obsolete. God accepts us completely based on the redemptive work of our High Priest, Jesus. This relationship we have with Him is unbreakable, sealed by the Holy Spirit. Our sins are forgiven, and God remembers them no more.
Romans 8:31-34What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33 Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.
