Hebrews 9:11

But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;

Hebrews 9:11 (KJV)

Context

The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians facing persecution and tempted to return to Judaism. The author demonstrates the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant over the old Mosaic system, contrasting the earthly tabernacle with the heavenly sanctuary.

Meaning

This verse presents Jesus Christ as the high priest of good things to come. In the Old Testament, the high priest mediated between God and the people, offering sacrifices and interceding on their behalf. Jesus fulfills this role perfectly, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins.

The greater and more perfect tabernacle refers to the heavenly reality, not a physical structure. The phrase “not made with hands” emphasizes its divine origin, contrasting with the earthly tabernacle built by human hands. This heavenly tabernacle represents the spiritual realm and the presence of God, eternal and not subject to decay or destruction.

The verse concludes by stating that this tabernacle is not of this building, meaning it is not confined to a physical location. The earthly tabernacle, built by human effort, is temporary and limited in comparison. The true sanctuary, where Christ ministers as high priest, transcends the earthly realm.

Biblical connections

The “good things to come” are the blessings of the New Covenant, already inaugurated by Christ’s coming. This verse underscores the transition from the shadow to the substance, from the earthly copy to the heavenly original. Christ’s entry into the heavenly tabernacle fulfills and surpasses the Old Testament sacrificial system, providing a once-for-all atonement.

Application

This passage calls believers to recognize the completeness of Christ’s work and to hold fast to their confession, confident in the efficacy of His heavenly ministry. Because Christ has entered the true tabernacle, believers can approach God with assurance, knowing that their salvation is secure in Him.

Reflection

Hebrews 9:11 highlights the superiority of Christ as the high priest, who ministers in a greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands. It emphasizes the heavenly nature of Christ’s ministry and the eternal significance of His sacrifice, surpassing the limitations of the earthly tabernacle and the old covenant system.