Whenever we read – anything – there is usually a history behind it that is helpful in understanding what we are reading.

A brief history about the Temple in Jerusalem helps us understand the letter to the Hebrews.  It was probably written between 67- 69 AD.  It had to have been written before 70 AD because the temple was destroyed by the Roman army in 70 AD.

Until it was destroyed, priests were still offering sacrifices of goats and calves every day.  The high priest would enter the Holy of Holies one time a year on the Day of Atonement with the blood of a lamb to atone for his own sins and the sins of the people.  (Hebrews 9:6-7)

The Jewish way of worship and life were centered around the Temple rituals.
When the temple was destroyed, the sacrifices ended.

(NASB) Hebrews 9:8-10 “The Holy Spirit is signifying this, that the way into the holy place has not yet been disclosed while the outer tabernacle is still standing,
9 which is a symbol for the present time.  Accordingly both gifts and sacrifices are offered which cannot make the worshiper perfect in conscience,
10 since they relate only to food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until a time of reformation.”

Christianity has its roots in the Jewish faith – and worship the living God.  Christians do not need to sacrifice animals or have a high priest atoning for our sins by the blood of a perfect animal.

The reason is Jesus.   He was the Lamb of God taking on our sins and sacrificing Himself.  It is His blood that atones for those who receive Him by faith.  His birth, life, death and His physical resurrection and ascension into heaven ~ He did it all and He did it for you and me…we have a wonderful Savior.

(NASB) John 1:29 “…‘Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”

The Temple housed the Ark of the Covenant…the symbol of God’s presence with His people…He is still Immanuel, God with us.

When Jesus is our Savior, we are given God the Holy Spirit…we become ‘the temple of God’ for He lives within.  And the reason is … faith in Jesus!

Isn’t it incredible!  Jesus, the living Lord Jesus is our Savior!  He did it all…He was the Lamb of God, it is His blood that was given for our sins, He is our High Priest…Savior, Sacrifice…and He didn’t stop with these wondrous things…He is the coming King!

Rejoice…
we have such a great Savior…
and His name is Jesus!