The title “The Epistle to the Hebrews†reveals to us the intended recipients of the letter. It is written to the Hebrews who had practiced the prescribed sacrifices and observances of the Mosaic Law before becoming acquainted with Christ.
Remember, Jesus was of the tribe of Judah. Every Hebrew living in the Holy Land realized that the priesthood was of the tribe of Levi.
The Epistle to the Hebrews reveals that although Jesus was of the House of David and not a Levite; He was a priest according to the Order of Melchizedek.
Hebrews 9: 8-15 “Whereby the holy Ghost this signified, that the way into the Holiest of all was not yet opened, while as yet the first tabernacle was standing. (9)Which was a figure for that present time, wherein were offered gifts and sacrifices that could not make holy, concerning the conscience, him that did the service, (10)Which only stood in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal rites, which were enjoined, until the time of reformation. (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, not of this building, (12) Neither by the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer, sprinkling them that are unclean, sanctifieth as touching the purifying of the flesh, (14) How much more shall the blood of Christ which through the eternal Spirit offered himself without fault to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God. (15) And for this cause is he the Mediator of the New Testament, that through death which was for the redemption of the transgressions that were in the former Testament, they which were called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. (Geneva Bible 1599)
“The drift and end of this Epistle, is to show that Jesus Christ the Son of God both God and man, is that true eternal and only Prophet, King, and high Priest, that was shadowed by the figures of the Law, and is now indeed exhibited: of whom the whole Church ought to be taught, governed and sanctified.†Geneva Bible 1599
“…the doctrine Jesus Christ brought is most excellent in that it is the knitting up of all prophesies.â€Â
Christ in these last times has come to us from the Father. He is preferred above the angels in both person and in office.
“And proveth by divers testimonies of the Scripture, that he far passeth all others.â€Â
“The first part of the general proposition of this Epistle; the Son of God is indeed that Prophet or teacher, which hath actually now performed that that God after a sort and in shadows signified by his Prophets, and hath fully opened his Father’s will to the world.â€Â(Footnote- Geneva Bible 1599)
“The same Son is appointed by the Father to be our King and Lord, by whom also he made all things, and in whom only he setteth forth his glory, yea and himself also to be beholden of us, who beareth up and sustaineth all things by his will and pleasure.â€Â(Footnote - Geneva Bible 1599)
The Son executed the office of the high Priest in offering himself, and is our only and most mighty Mediator in heaven.
His sacrifice is not only most acceptable to the Father but is everlasting. Jesus High Priesthood surpasses all other High Priests.
Throughout the first chapters of the Epistle to the Hebrews we see our Great High Priest Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophetic Mosaic Law which was a mere shadow of His ministry.
When we examine Hebrews 6:4-6, we should keep in mind the author isn’t speaking of sins committed through the frailty of men and women against the first and second table of the law.
He is addressing persons who reject Christ. He is also speaking to those who return to the prescribed sacrifices and observances of the Mosaic Law. Observance of the Mosaic sacrifices performed in the temple cannot possibly cleanse from sin and provide forgiveness. Hence, forgiveness through "repentance" by performing the perscribed sacrifices is impossible.
The sacrificial system pre-figured and foreshadowed Jesus High Priesthood and sacrifice. Hence, they openly crucify Christ each time sacrifice is performed bringing shame.
According to Roman Catholic doctrine, only a Catholic priest has the authority to change wine and bread – the elements – into the body and blood of Christ. This is commonly known as the doctrine of transubstantiation.
Many Protestants and Catholics do not know that each time the Mass is celebrated – Jesus Christ is sacrificed again…and again…and again.
Yet the Book of Hebrews clearly indicates that Jesus – the eternal Son of God – of infinite value and worth died once for mankind. The past – present – and future sins which his sheep commit have been paid in full.
Hence, celebration of the Mass is as returning to the sacrificial system of the Mosaic law observed in the Temple in Jerusalem.
Maranatha
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