Hebrews 9:20
Saying, This is the blood of the Testament which God hath enioyned vnto you. Hebrews 9:20 (KJV)
The Book of Hebrews was addressed to Jewish believers in Christ who were enduring persecution and were tempted to return to the old rites of Judaism. The author repeatedly stresses the superiority of Christ and the New Covenant over the former system of law, sacrifices, and the earthly tabernacle. Hebrews chapter 9 sets the Old Testament sanctuary and the high priest’s service beside Christ’s once‑for‑all sacrifice as the perfect High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary.
Blood of the Testament
In this verse the author points to the shedding of blood that marked the Old Covenant established by God with Israel at Mount Sinai. The covenant was sealed by the sprinkling of animal blood on the people and on the book of the law (Exodus 24:5‑8), symbolizing the covenant relationship and the forgiveness that the sacrificial system could provide.
The New Covenant
The writer contrasts that old system with the New Covenant inaugurated by Jesus Christ. While the blood of animals could offer only temporary forgiveness, the blood of Jesus shed on the cross brings redemption and complete forgiveness (Hebrews 9:12). Because it rests on the perfect, final sacrifice of Christ, the New Covenant is presented as superior to the Old.
The Importance of Jesus’ Blood
The phrase “This is the blood of the testament” originally described the covenant‑blood spoken of by the high priest, but it is applied typologically to the blood of Christ. Jesus’ blood ratifies the New Covenant, sealing the forgiveness of sins for all who believe (Hebrews 9:15). Through His sacrifice He fulfilled the requirements of the Old Covenant and inaugurated a better covenant founded on grace and mercy.
God’s Enjoined (or Ordained) Covenant
The verse notes that the blood of the testament is “which God hath enjoined unto you,” underscoring the divine origin and authority of the covenant. Whether described as enjoined or ordained, the covenant reflects God’s gracious purpose for His people, grounded in the mercy shown through the sacrificial death of His Son.
Overall, Hebrews 9:20 highlights the pivotal role of covenant blood in establishing the New Covenant and serves as a reminder to both the original Hebrew audience and today’s believers that forgiveness and salvation flow solely through the precious blood of Jesus Christ.
