Hebrews 9:6

Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.

Hebrews 9:6 (KJV)

Context

The book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians facing various challenges and temptations to return to their old religious practices under the Mosaic Law. The author 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 gives a glimpse into the ancient Jewish worship system and the role of priests in the tabernacle. In the preceding verses, the author describes the tabernacle’s layout, its compartments, and the regulations governing priestly ministry. The phrase “these things were thus ordained” refers to the tabernacle being fully prepared and furnished with all its vessels, as described in Hebrews 9:1-5.

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 “first tabernacle” in this verse is the outer section, the Holy Place, which was distinct from the Most Holy Place that only the high priest entered once a year.

Meaning

The priests went “always” into the first tabernacle, meaning they entered continually, every day, morning and evening, to perform their ritual duties. The “service of God” refers to the duties and rituals the priests carried out, including offering sacrifices, burning incense, maintaining the lamps, and conducting other liturgical functions on behalf of the people.

This daily, repeated ministry highlights the ongoing nature of Old Covenant worship. The priests had to keep returning because their work was never complete. The regular repetition of these services showed that the old system could not perfect the conscience of the worshiper or provide permanent access to God’s presence.

Biblical connections

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 continually in the tabernacle and the superior ministry of Jesus Christ as the high priest. In subsequent verses, the author explains how the tabernacle and its rituals were symbolic of heavenly reality and foreshadowed the redemptive work of Christ.

The Holy Spirit signified through this arrangement that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest while the first tabernacle was still standing, indicating the temporary and preparatory nature of the old covenant. The repetition of sacrifices and the annual Day of Atonement pointed to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who offered Himself once and for all to atone for the sins of humanity.

Application

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. Believers no longer need earthly priests and repeated rituals to mediate their 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. Hebrews 9:6 encourages believers to place their faith in Christ alone, recognizing Him as the ultimate high priest who provides permanent access to God’s presence.

Reflection

The contrast between the priests’ continual service and Christ’s finished work invites gratitude. The old system required constant repetition because it could not perfect the worshiper. Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice accomplished what the repeated rituals could only foreshadow. Believers can rest in the completed work of Jesus, who has opened the way into God’s presence forever.