Hebrews 9:6
“Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.”
Context: The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians who were facing various challenges and temptations to return to their old religious practices under the Mosaic Law. The author of Hebrews presents Jesus Christ as the fulfilment of the Old Testament covenant and the ultimate high priest who provides access to God’s presence.
Hebrews 9:6 provides a glimpse into the ancient Jewish worship system and the role of the priests in the tabernacle or temple. In the preceding verses, the author of Hebrews discusses the layout of the tabernacle, its various compartments, and the regulations governing the ministry of the priests.
In the Old Testament, the tabernacle was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings, while the temple was its permanent counterpart in Jerusalem. The tabernacle had two primary sections: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (also known as the Holy of Holies). The priests regularly entered the first section, the Holy Place, to perform their service to God.
The “service of God” mentioned in Hebrews 9:6 refers to the duties and rituals the priests carried out in the tabernacle. These tasks included offering sacrifices, burning incense, maintaining the lamps, and conducting other liturgical functions on behalf of the people.
Importance and Application:
Hebrews 9:6 serves as a transitional verse within the broader context of Hebrews. It points to the contrast between the earthly priests who served in the tabernacle or temple and the superior ministry of Jesus Christ as the high priest.
In subsequent verses, the author of Hebrews explains how the Old Testament tabernacle and its rituals were symbolic of the heavenly reality and foreshadowed the redemptive work of Christ. The repetition of sacrifices and the annual Day of Atonement in the Old Testament pointed to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who offered Himself once and for all to atone for the sins of humanity.
The significance for Christians today lies in recognizing that Jesus Christ fulfilled the role of the high priest and His sacrifice provides forgiveness and access to God for all who believe in Him. We no longer need earthly priests and their rituals to mediate our relationship with God, for Jesus has opened the way for direct communion with the Father. This truth highlights the superiority and sufficiency of Christ’s work in comparison to the temporary and symbolic practices of the Old Testament.
In summary, Hebrews 9:6 emphasizes the service of the priests in the tabernacle and sets the stage for the subsequent discussion on the superior priesthood and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It encourages believers to place their faith in Christ alone, recognizing Him as the ultimate high priest who provides access to God’s presence.
