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Nazarene Commentary 2000©

21^st Century Paraphrase of the Hebrew Scriptures© –
21^st Century Version of the Christian Scriptures© [NCMM]

THE LETTER TO THE HEBREWS

CHAPTER NINE:
“TABERNACLE TYPES AND ANTI-TYPES”

Hebrews 9:1-5 – Former Covenant’s Holy Place

HE9:1 Therefore, indeed, the first [Tabernacle] 324 had its righteous regulations of holy worship 325 and its orderly arranged Tabernacle. 326

324	The first [Tabernacle]: Or, The Greek is PROTE and “covenant” is implied from the context which most versions indicate. RHM: even the first indeed therefore.

325

Had its righteous regulations of holy worship: Or, KJV: ordinances of divine worship; RHM: righteous appointments of divine service; PME: certain rules for the service of God; BAS: rules of worship; MON: its ordinances of public worship; TCN: regulations for divine worship; NOR: forms of worship; KNX: ceremonial observances. The Greek is LATREIAS [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #2999, minister, service, worship of God (usually in a formal context)]. Compare Leviticus chapter 4.

326

Orderly arranged Tabernacle: Or, KJV: a worldly sanctuary; ASV: of this world; WEY: material world; BEC: earthly; MOF: mundane sanctuary; TCN: material; RHM: ritual well arranged; GDS: fully equipped. The Greek is KOSMIKON [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3886, often rendered “world” but fundamentally means something arranged in order]. Compare Exodus chapter 25.

HE9:2 For the first room – called the Holy Place 327 – was constructed in which there were a lampstand 328 and a table for the loaves of presentation. 329

327	The first room – called the Holy Place: Or, KJV: for there was a tabernacle made; the first; CON: a tabernacle was made [in two portions]: the first; TCN: an outer part; PME: outer compartment. Compare Exodus 26:33ff.

328

Lampstand: To the left as one enters the Tabernacle’s front curtain. As all things in the Tabernacle it was made of gold. Compare Exodus 40:24 and Numbers 4:9. This is the only light in the Holy Place. The symbolizing of light is repeated again and again. [Revelation 1:12] A symbol of the Light of the serving priests.

329

Table for the loaves of presentation: Or, showbread, presentation bread, consecrated bread. On the right entering the Tabernacle, a display of ring-shaped loaves for priestly communal sharing, replaced each day. [Compare Exodus 40:22ff] A symbol of the “daily bread” of the serving priests. [Matthew 6:11]

HE9:3 However, beyond the second curtain was [another room] called the “Holy of Holies.” 330

330

Beyond the second curtain was [another room] called the “Holy of Holies”: Or, KJV: and after the second veil the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; RHM: most holy. In Hebrew the whole building was identified by three words: dwelling, tent, sanctuary. In Greek it is called a SKENE which means a tent or dwelling. It is also referred to as “tent of meeting” and “Temple of Yehowah.” [1 Samuel 1:9, 24] The whole building was a perfect rectangle with the inner most room, the Most Holy, a cube 10x10 cubits. [13.4x13.4 feet] Compare Exodus 26:33, 34ff.

HE9:4 It had a golden censer 331 and the Ark of the Covenant 332 overlaid in gold. 333 Inside [the Ark] were a jar containing the manna, 334 Aaron’s staff which sprouted, 335 and the tablets of the covenant. 336

331

Golden censer: This was portable and used the fire of the incense altar in the first compartment, the Holy Place. Entering the Holy this altar would have been straight ahead about 20 cubits near the second curtain. [Leviticus 16:12] Revelation 8:3 alludes to this incense altar in the context of the Seven Trumpets.

332	Ark of the Covenant: A chest with a removable cover in proportions to the Tabernacle itself. Or, GDS: chest. [Exodus 40:21] There were three items kept inside the Ark. See notes below.

333	Overlaid in gold: Compare Exodus 25:11. Some view gold as a symbol of heavenly things, while copper is viewed as earthly. It is worthy of note that the sacrificial altar and water basin for cleansing in the courtyard outside the Tabernacle were made of copper.

334	A jar containing the manna: Compare Exodus 16:33. A possible symbol for the heavenly nourishment of the priesthood. See notes on Revelation 2:17 where “hidden manna” is mentioned. Compare also Paul’s quote of Exodus 16:18 at 2 Corinthians 8:14, 15.

335	Aaron’s staff which sprouted: Or, budded, blossomed. A symbol of priestly authority. Compare Numbers 17:10. It also remains a warning to those who murmur against authority.

336	Tablets of the covenant: Or, BAS: the stones with the writing of agreement; AMP: ten commandments. Compare Exodus 32:15. [Note centuries later the contents of the Ark – 2 Chronicles 5:10.] A symbol that God’s Law reigns sovereign over the priesthood and all who will worship Him.

HE9:5 On top of [the Ark] were the glorious cherubs overshadowing the propitiatory. 337 But, right now is not the time to discuss these things in detail. 338

337

Glorious cherubs overshadowing the propitiatory: Or, KJV: cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; TCN: cherubim of the Presence; GDS: the winged creatures of the Divine Presence; KNX: throne of mercy; PME: ark’s covering; TCN: the Cover on which atonement was made; GDS: the lid on which the blood was sprinkled; NEB: place of expiation. The Greek is CHEROUBIM [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #5502 = a corruption of the Hebrew for an uncertain figure] DOXES KATA-SKIAZONTA [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #2683, from the root for “shadow”] TO HILASTERION [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #2435, from or related to atone, propitious]. On the later note 1 John 2:2.

338

Now is not the time to discuss these things in detail: Thus, there are some “details” [enlarge] and many a Bible student has written on Tabernacle Shadows. Though most of these are godly speculations with only limited basis, they often help in understanding what Paul calls the “realities.” [Colossians 2:17; Hebrews 10:1]

Hebrews 9:6-10 – A Typical Tent for the Present

HE9:6 After [the Tabernacle] had been so constructed, the priests entered the first room daily to perform their sacred functions. 339

339

Priests entered the first room daily to perform their sacred functions: Or, KJV: the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God; ASV: continually; WMS: regularly; PME: habitually; ABU: performing their service; RHM: divine services completing; WEY: MOF: ritual duties; GDP: their rites. Compare Leviticus 24:3, 4. For an example, see Luke 1:8-10. The bread was replaced. New oil kept in the lampstands. Incense offered at the hour of prayer, morning and evening.

HE9:7 However, the chief priest entered the second room alone only once a year 340 – and not without blood 341 – which he brought forward on his own behalf as well as for the sins of ignorance of the people [of Israel]. 342

340

The chief priest entered the second room alone only once a year: Or, high priest. Compare the details of the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16:1ff. On the annual Day of Atonement [Yom Kippur, day of the coverings (of sin)] the high priest entered the Tabernacle through its first curtain, prepared the portable burner with two handfuls of incense, and then entered the Most Holy lofting thick smoke to precede him. [Leviticus 16:29-31; 23:26-32; Numbers 29:7; Acts 27:9] Jewish traditions teach a holy Light was above the Ark of the Covenant. It is called the Shekinah Light and as the sole illumination of the second compartment. No other priest was permitted in the Tabernacle during this service. He sprinkled the blood of a bull and goat toward the covering of the Ark of the Covenant. [Leviticus 16:15]

341	And not without blood: Or, never without blood. Compare Exodus 30:10 and Leviticus 16:14.

342

On his own behalf as well as for the sins of ignorance of the people [of Israel]: Or, errors of the people, thoughtless sins, faults. The blood of the young bull was in behalf of the sins of the priesthood and the blood of the first goat for the people in general. Some see a parallel in 1 John 2:2. [Leviticus 16:6, 15]

HE9:8 (And so the holy Pneuma reveals 343 the way into the Most Holy was not made manifest while the Tabernacle still existed.) 344

343

The holy Pneuma reveals: Or, KJV: the Holy Ghost this signifying; RHM: making this evident; BEC: clearly tells us; TCN: is teaching; GDS: seeking to show. Paul suggests the account in Leviticus chapter 16 and elsewhere, inspired by God’s sacred Pneuma, had a larger lesson to reveal regarding certain spiritual realities. [Hebrews 10:1]

344

The way into the Most Holy was not made manifest while the Tabernacle still existed: Or, KJV: that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest while as the first tabernacle was yet standing; MON: not disclosed; NEB: remains unrevealed; MOF: the way into the Holiest Presence was not disclosed; WMS: while the outer tent was still in existence; PME: so long as the first tent and all it stands for still exist. There are several views. The original Tabernacle ceased its function when Solomon built the great Temple of Yehowah. Paul may mean the holy Pneuma had not yet revealed the way into what the Most Holy typified while that Tabernacle still existed. Compare Hebrews 10:20. There may be something here of Ephesians 3:5 and Ephesians 2:19-22. Judging from the following context may infer the way into the Most Holy, that is heaven itself, by Messiah was not yet revealed.

HE9:9 [This Tabernacle] is a parable for the present season, 345 and in accordance these gifts and sacrifices which are being brought forward 346 are unable to perfect the consciences of those performing the worship services. 347

345

[This Tabernacle] is a parable for the present season: Or, KJV: which was a figure for the time then present; WMS: a symbol of the present time; ALF: parable for the time now present; RHM: similitude for the present season; MOF: which foreshadowed the present age; TCN: a type to continue down to the present time. The Greek is PARABOLE [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3850]. Thus, Paul indicates the ancient Tabernacle of Moses [having vanished centuries before] was a prophetic type or shadow [Hebrews 10:1] of matters then current. [Colossians 2:17]

346	These gifts and sacrifices which are being brought forward: That is, those offerings made by the priests who served at the Tabernacle. The language here would indicate Hebrews was written while the sacred orders were still being performed at Jerusalem’s Temple.

347

Unable to perfect the consciences of those performing the worship services: Or, KJV: that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; ASV: cannot… make the worshippers perfect; ALF: no power to perfect in conscience; NEB: cannot give the worshipper inward perfection; GDS: cannot inwardly qualify the worshipper to approach God. Paul goes on to argue that if this arrangement of the Law had perfected the human conscience the sacrifices would have ceased long ago. The Jewish system provided no perfecting or clearing of the conscience as Jeremiah 31:31-35 had foretold.

HE9:10 [These] only relate to [gift-offerings of] food and drink, along with various washings, according to fleshly rules until the season for straightening everything out. 348

348

Until the season for straightening everything out: Or, KJV: until the time of reformation; RHM: a season of rectifying are in force; BAS: until the times comes when things will be put right; TCN: until the coming of the New Order; GDS: in force only until the time for the new order. The Greek is MECHRI [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3360, as far as, up to a certain point, until] KAIROU [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #2540, an occasion, proper time, season] DIORTHOSEOS [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #1357, straighten thoroughly, the Messianic restoration] EPIKEIMENA [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #1945, to rest upon, impose]. Judging from the following this is not a future event but something present or current, having already been fulfilled in its original foundation.

Hebrews 9:11-14 – Christ Enters Perfect Tent

HE9:11 However, when Christ arrived as a High Priest 349 – relating to the good things by means of the greater and more perfect Tabernacle 350 not of human construction – that is, not of this creation 351 –

349

When Christ arrived as a High Priest: Or, KJV: but Christ being come an high priest; RHM: when Christ approached as high priest; ALF: having appeared an high priest. The Greek here for “high priest” [or, chief priest] is HACHIEREUS [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #749] from which comes “hierarchy.” It seems fair to conclude that this occurred at his baptism and anointing in the Jordan. He then began his priestly work even as the members of the Church are a “royal priesthood.” [1 Peter 2:5, 9] Compare Hebrews 4:14.

350

Relating to the good things by means of the greater and more perfect Tabernacle: Or, TCN: better system; KJV: greater and more perfect tabernacle. As the great spiritual High Priest Jesus Christ would first have begun to serve in what is typified by the Courtyard of the Tabernacle. There were located the copper water basin and sacrificial altar. Compare Revelation 11:2. Paul seems to allude to this Courtyard in Hebrews 10:22 and Hebrews 13:10-13.

351

Not of human construction – that is, not of this creation: Or, KJV: not made with hands; WEY: material creation; BAS: not of this world; NEB: not belonging to this created world. Judging from this and what is to follow the Tabernacle with its two holy compartments is a type of heavenly or celestial things. Jesus would not have entered this spiritual Tabernacle until his ascension to heaven. Likewise, the members of the Church now serve in the anti-typical Tabernacle courtyard. [Revelation 11:2] The phrase here is similar to 2 Corinthians 5:1. [Hebrews 9:24] Note also Daniel 2:45.

HE9:12 he entered – not with the blood of goats and young bulls, but rather with his own blood 352 – only once into [the Tabernacle’s] holy rooms, 353 having found an everlasting ransom. 354

352

He entered… with his own blood: Or, KJV: by his own blood he entered. Messiah’s blood was to be “poured out” [Isaiah 53:12; Hebrews 9:22] just as the blood of the ancient animal sacrifices. [Hebrews 13:11-13] Since Paul writes that “flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom” it seems fair to conclude that here in Hebrews 9:12 he means the value or purchasing power of his blood. In similar fashion the Jewish high priest only took a token of the blood of bulls and goats into the Tabernacle to sprinkle it in the Most Holy. Note how Jesus omits “blood” in Luke 24:38.

353	Only once into [the Tabernacle’s] holy rooms: Or, KJV: once into the holy place; ABU: once for all into the holy places. The Greek is plural – HAGIA. Paul will go on to explain why this was only “once.”

354

Having found an everlasting ransom: Or, KJV: having obtained eternal redemption for us; RHM: age-abiding redemption discovering; AMP: find and securing; GDS: securing our permanent deliverance; KNX: the ransom he has won last for ever. The Greek for “ransom” here is LYTROSIN [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3085]. For details research LYTRO or Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3085. Compare notes on Hebrews 10:17 and Romans 11:27. [Isaiah 45:17; Daniel 9:24]

HE9:13 For, if the blood of goats and bulls, and the sprinkling of the ashes of a heifer, upon those sharing in the communion sanctifies regarding a cleanness of the flesh, 355

355

Sanctifies regarding a cleanness of the flesh: Or, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh; WMS: physical cleansing; WEY: make them holy so as to bring about ceremonial purity. This later phrase from Weymouth Translation is close to the mark for this ‘cleansing’ is of a ceremonial kind allowing the priesthood to continue in their service. Note the 200 occurrences of the word groups “clean” and “unclean” in the book of Leviticus. Compare the example at Numbers 19:17, 19.

HE9:14 rather how much more [will] the blood of the Christ 356 – who through an everlasting pneuma 357 approached The God with himself [as an] unblemished [offering] 358 – cleanse our consciences from dead works 359 leading to sacred worship of a Living God? 360

356	The blood of the Christ: He means the value or purchasing power of the literal blood of Jesus Christ. He does not include the Church in this sacrificial offering. [1 Peter 1:19]

357

Who through an everlasting pneuma: Or, KJV: who through the eternal Spirit; RHM: who through an age-abiding spirit; BER: through the Spirit Eternal; KNX: through the Holy Spirit; WMS: with an eternal Spirit; MOF: who in the spirit of the eternal; TCN: through his eternal Spirit. The Trinitarian bias of some translators is obvious. The Greek is DIA PNEUMATOS AIONIOU, “through [a] pneuma aionion.” Whether the Pneuma here refers to an everlasting attitude or disposition [mental inclination] on the part of Christ, or alludes to God’s Spirit is one of personal interpretation. If the context of a spirit of self-sacrifice is the focus then it can be seen that the attitude expressed by Philippians 2:5-7 is one that Christ will always possess. Messiah’s “spirit” is discussed at Isaiah 11:1-5. In the Greek LXX some of the phrases are PNEUMA SOPHIAS, PNEUMA BOULES, PNEUMA GNOSEOS, PNEUMA PHOBOU, etc.

358

Approached The God with himself [as an] unblemished [offering]: Or, KJV: offered himself without spot to God; ASV: offered himself without blemish unto God; BER: offered himself a flawless sacrifice to God; MOF: unblemished sacrifice to God; TCN: a victim without blemish; WMS: have himself a spotless offering to God. [Ephesians 5:2] This is the case of the sacrificial victim approaching God in offering himself, while still also serving as the High Priest himself.

359

Cleanse our consciences from dead works: Or, KJV: purge your conscience from dead works; WEY: purify your consciences from lifeless works; TCN: lifeless formality; NEB: deadness of your former ways. [Hebrews 10:2; 1 John 1:7] Note “repentance from dead works” at Hebrews 6:1 as a fundamental teaching of the Christ. [1 Corinthians 6:11] See notes on the word “conscience” at Hebrews 9:9; 10:22; 13:18. The conscience is one of the key elements to that forgiveness which results from the unblemished sacrificial offering of Christ. Evidently, the animal sacrifices did not satisfy the Hebrew conscience as to perfect forgiveness to the extent of clearing the conscience completely.

360

Leading to sacred worship of a Living God: Or, KJV: to serve the living God; RHM: to be rendering of divine-service unto a Living God; CON: that we may worship the living God; GDS: for the worship of the ever-living God. Research notes on the Greek LATREUEIN. [Hebrews 12:28] Note the Greek here is THEO ZONTI with the article and thus “a Living God.” On the earliest use of “living God” see Deuteronomy 5:26. [Hebrews 3:12; 9:14; 10:31; 12:22]

Hebrews 9:15-22 – Mediator of a New Covenant

HE9:15 And so because of this [Christ] is a mediator of a new covenant 361 because a death has occurred leading to a release by ransom 362 from the transgressions under the first [Law] covenant, 363 those who have been invited 364 might receive the Promise of the everlasting inheritance. 365

361

Mediator of a new covenant: Or, intermediary, negotiator; PME: the administration of an entirely new agreement. The Greek MESITES [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3116, one who intervenes, a medium of communication, arbitrator] and occurs once in Job 9:33. The same word used in 1 Timothy 2:5. Paul uses “mediator” only in Galatians 3:19 and three times in Hebrews 8:6; 9:15; 12:24. “New covenant” is drawn from Jeremiah 31:31 and occurs only at Luke 22:20, 1 Corinthians 11:25, 2 Corinthians 3:6, and four times in Hebrews 8:8, 13; 9:15; 12:24.

362

A death has occurred leading to a release by ransom: Or, KJV: that by means of death, for the redemption; TCN: to affect a deliverance; MOF: a death has occurred which redeems them; GDS: someone has died to deliver them; WEY: a life has been given in atonement. See notes on the Greek APOLYTROSIN [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #629, release effected by payment of ransom] or “ransom” [Matthew 20:28] “Ransom” occurs 15 times in the Christian Bible.

363

The transgressions under the first [Law] covenant: Or, KJV: transgressions that were under the first testament; sins, offences. The specific context here is the sins of the Hebrews under the Law. Paul teaches the Jesus is the “mediator” between The God and all humanity at 1 Timothy 2:5. In Galatians 3:15 Paul also limits himself to the Jews.

364	Those who have been invited: Or, called. Compare notes on the parable at Matthew 22:1ff. For details see notes on the Greek KEKLEMENOI [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #2563]. Compare Hebrews 3:1.

365

Might receive the Promise of the everlasting inheritance: Or, KJV: the promise of eternal testament; RHM: age-abiding inheritance; GDS: unending; BER: eternal heritage. The word “promise” occurs most often in the letter to the Hebrews. [Hebrews 4:1; 6:13, 15, 17; 9:15; 10:36; 11:9, 36] “Promise” occurs eight times in Galatians 3:17, 18, 19, 22, 29; 4:23, 28. Most often the word “promise” is an allusion to the Abrahamic covenant.

HE9:16 For where there is a Will and Testament, 366 it is a necessity the one who made the Will dies. 367

366	Will and Testament: Or, covenant, agreement, testament. Some translators use “will” here based on the context. [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #1242, covenant, testament or will] Compare Galatians 3:15.

367	A necessity the one who made the Will dies: Or, KJV: death of the testor.

HE9:17 For a Will and Testament is firm over only a dead person 368 since it is has no power while the one who made the Will is still alive.

368	Testament is firm over only a dead person: Or, KJV: for a testament is of force after men are dead; MOF: for a will only holds in case of death.

HE9:18 Therefore, neither was the first [covenant] inaugurated without blood. 369

369	Neither was the first [covenant] inaugurated without blood: Or, KJV: whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. [Exodus 24:6, 7]

HE9:19 For, after every commandment had been spoken 370 by Moses to all the people [of Israel] in accordance with the Law, [Moses] took the blood of young bulls and goats with water he sprinkled the small bible and all the people 371 with scarlet wool and a hyssop [branch].

370	After every commandment had been spoken: Compare Exodus 24:3.

371	He sprinkled the small bible and all the people: Or, the book, scroll, roll. The Greek is BIBLION [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #975].

HE9:20 [Then Moses said], “This is the blood of the covenant 372 which The God 373 has enjoined upon you.” 374 [Exodus 24:8]

372	The blood of the covenant: The phrase is from Exodus 24:8. Note it is alluded to in Matthew 26:28. [See notes in Nazarene Commentary 2000©.] Compare also Mark 14:24; Hebrews 10:29.

373	The God: The Hebrew Text has YHWH but Paul uses HO THEOS.

374	Enjoined upon you: Or, commanded, made binding, ordained, prescribed.

HE9:21 Also, likewise, he sprinkled with blood the Tabernacle and all the vessels of public worship. 375

375	Sprinkled with blood the Tabernacle and all the vessels of public worship: Compare Exodus 29:12; Leviticus 8:15; 16:16, 18.

HE9:22 And virtually everything is cleansed in blood, 376 and so without an outpouring of blood no forgiveness occurs. 377

376	Virtually everything is cleansed in blood: Or, KJV: almost all things are by the law purged with blood; RHM: nearly all things; GDS: almost everything. The principle is a spiritual truth understood in virtually all religions. [Genesis 4:4; 8:20; Leviticus 17:11]

377	Without an outpouring of blood no forgiveness occurs: Or, KJV: without shedding of blood is no remission; TCN: unless blood is shed, no forgiveness is to be obtained; GDS: unless blood is poured out nothing is forgiven. Compare Leviticus 9:9; Ephesians 1:7.

Hebrews 9:23-28 – Christ Enters Heaven for Us

HE9:23 Therefore, it was indeed a necessity 378 the diagrams 379 of the things in the heavens be cleansed. 380 However, the heavenly things [had to be cleansed] with sacrifices better than [those fleshly offerings]. 381

378	Therefore, it was indeed a necessity: Or, KJV: it was therefore necessary; RHM: it was indeed therefore necessary; WEY: it was needful therefore.

379

The diagrams: Or, patterns, copies, figures, outlines, reproductions, typical representations. The Greek is HYPODEIGMATA [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #5262, an exhibit for instruction or warning, specimen, example, pattern] from which comes the English diagram. [Hebrews 8:5; 9:9] An associated word is the Greek ANTITYPA. [See notes on Hebrews 9:24] The Mosaic Tabernacle with its Courtyard of worship was a parable, type, shadow, or diagram of heavenly and spiritual matters pertaining to worship in the New Covenant and future beneficiaries in “the inhabited earth to come.” [Hebrews 2:5]

380

The things in the heavens be cleansed: Or, GDS: the originals in heaven; PME: heavenly realities. Paul tells us the Tabernacle was a type or diagram of heavenly realities, whereas the Courtyard on earthly conditions or situations. [Hebrews 10:22; 13:10; Revelation 11:2] That is, cleansed by animal blood.

381

The heavenly things [had to be cleansed] with sacrifices better than [those fleshly offerings]: Or, KJV: but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these; TCN: the heavenly realities themselves required better sacrifices; GDS: the heavenly originals themselves required far better; KNX: sacrifices more availing still; MOF: nobler sacrifices; WEY: more comely sacrifices. Paul has previously mentioned the blood of young bulls and goats. Thus, he means these [plural] types which pre-figure the one Sacrifice of Christ. Though Messiah’s sacrifice is once of human blood shed on the Tree it has a plural value affecting, first, the Church, and then, mankind in general. Note the “heavenly things” required their own “cleansing.” Not only earth, but also “heaven” needed a reconciliation or re-gathering as Ephesians 1:10 and Colossians 1:16 show. The latter amplifies the “heavens” of the former to include celestial authorities.

HE9:24 For Christ did not enter holy places of human construction 382 – which are anti-types of true realities 383 – but rather into the very heavens, 384 now to appear before the person of The God in our behalf. 385

382

Christ did not enter holy places of human construction: Or, KJV: holy places made with hands; RHM: Holy Place. The Greek is plural, thus “holy places” – meaning the first and second compartment. Jesus never entered these “during the days of his flesh,” as he was not a Jewish priest. [Hebrews 7:13; 8:2] This would seem to suggest that the entire Tabernacle with both of its rooms or compartments were types of heavenly realities. Some would divide the two and interpret the first compartment [the Holy Place] as related to something earthly or mundane.

383	Which are anti-types of true realities: Or, figures, pattern, real, reality, symbol, foreshadowed. The Greek is ANTITYPA [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #499]. See footnote above. [Colossians 2:17; Hebrews 10:1]

384

Into the very heavens: Or, heaven itself; the Celestialum. Compare notes on Hebrews 6:20; 9:12; 10:19. Note the Nazarene’s words at John 6:62; 8:23; 17:5. Research the word “heaven(s)” or the Greek OURANOIS [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3772. Note the KJV uses the singular from OURANON, from which comes the planet Uranus]. The English “heaven” comes from “heaved up” or anything above the ground including the atmosphere in which birds fly. [Genesis 1:20; Revelation 14:6] Paul mentions a “third heaven.” [2 Corinthians 12:2] Note Isaiah 66:1 and related texts.

385

Now to appear before the person of The God in our behalf: Or, KJV: now to appear in the presence of God for us; ASV: appear before the face of God; GDS: in the very presence of; RH: plainly manifest before the face of God. The word “appear” is from the Greek EMPHANISTHENAI [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #1718]. The phrase “person of” is literally “to the face of the.” The Greek is PROSOPO [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #4383 PROSOPO, face (from 4314 = towards + 3700, behold, appear)]. There is an echo of Daniel 7:13 here. Compare the heavenly scene upon Christ’s ascension in Revelation chapters 4 and 5. [John 16:28; Romans 8:34] Note: it is very obvious that Paul does not believe Christ is God before whom he appears.

HE9:25 And not that he should offered up himself many times, 386 just as the high priest enters the holy rooms annually with other blood.

386

Not that he should offered up himself many times: Or, KJV: not yet that he should offer himself often; RHM: ofttimes; GDS: nor does he go in to offer himself over and over again. Unlike the Hebrew high priest he must annually enter before God with the sacrificial blood, Christ does this only once. He does not need to be re-sacrificed over and over as in some daily Mass.

HE9:26 Otherwise it would be necessary for [Christ] to suffer [death] many times from the beginning of humanity. 387 But now in contrast, [Christ] has become visible at the consummation of the period 388 by abolishing the Sin through his own sacrifice. 389

387

To suffer [death] many times from the beginning of humanity: Or, KJV: for then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world; MON: suffer repeatedly; TCN: undergo death many times; GDS: suffer death over and over. See notes elsewhere on “the foundation of the world” as referring to the first birthing of humankind. [Luke 11:50, 51; Ephesians 1:4] The Greek is KATABOLES [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #2602, depositing of the virile semen in the womb] KOSMOU [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #2889, arrangement, order, human family], thus meaning “the conception of humanity.”

388

[Christ] has become visible at the consummation of the period: Or, KJV: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared; ASV: end of the ages hath he been manifested; RHM: conclusion of the ages; WMS: at the close of the ages he has appeared; BER: shown himself; BAS: he has come to us at the end of the old order; NEB: climax of history. “Become visible” is from the Greek PEPHANEROTAI. See the notes above. The phrase “consummation of the period” is from the Greek SYNTELEIA TON AIONON and is virtually identical to the apostles’ SYNTELEIAS TOU AIONOS at Matthew 24:3. The phrase echoes the Messianic prophecy of Daniel 9:26, 27 which uses similar language in describing the end of the Jewish Temple Age or Period. [Compare also Matthew 13:39 and 1 Corinthians 10:11.] There are two Synteleia: a] that upon the Jewish Temple Age; and, b] that on the Day of Judgment at Christ’s Parousia. Here Paul clearly reveals he has in mind the Jewish Temple Age. Had Hebrews been written after the Temple’s destruction in 70 CE it seems likely the author would have mentioned that fact in fulfillment of both Daniel and Jesus’ prophecies. [Daniel 9:6, 27; Matthew 24:1, 2, 15-20; Luke 21:20-24]

389

By abolishing the Sin through his own sacrifice: Or, KJV: to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself; RHM: setting aside; WEY: to do away with; GDS: to put an end to; BER: eliminate; KNX: annulling. There is also something of Isaiah 53:12 and Daniel 9:24 here. “Sin” has the article “the” indicating a certain specific type of sin – that is, Adamic sin. [Romans 5:12-14]

HE9:27 Also, accordingly, it is determined that humans die once, 390 but after this [death] a judgment. 391

390

It is determined that humans die once: Or, KJV: and as it is appointed unto men once to die; RHM: in store for; WEY: and since it is reserved for all mankind once to die; NEB: the lot of; GDS: destined to die once; TCN: ordained. Such was determined at Genesis 3:19. [Ecclesiastes 3:19-21; Romans 5:12-14]

391

After this [death] a judgment: Or, KJV: but after this the judgment; BER: with judgment following; WEY: afterwards to be judged; KNX: nothing remains after that but judgment. See notes elsewhere on judgment and the Day of Judgment. [Matthew 12:36, 37, 41, 42; Romans 2:15, 16; Revelation 20:11-13] Compare the Biblical Article God and Judgment.

HE9:28 And just so, also, the Christ – having sacrificed himself once to bear the sins of many 392 – will become visible a second time 393 (apart from sin) 394 to those earnestly awaiting him for their salvation. 395

392

Having sacrificed himself once to bear the sins of many: Or, KJV: was once offered to bear the sins of many; BAS: having at his first coming taken on himself the sins of men. The wording is POLLON [many] and not “all.” Compare Matthew 20:28 [POLLON]. Had it been “all” then there would be no need of judgment. [Isaiah 53:12; 1 Peter 2:24]

393

Will become visible a second time: Or, KJV: shall appear the second time; BER: show himself. The Greek is OPHTHESETAI [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance #3700, to gaze with eyes wide-open at something remarkable]. The parousia or Return of Christ will be visible and not invisible. Daniel 12:1 foretold the “appearing” [JPS Tanakh] of Messiah. [Matthew 24:30, 31; Titus 2:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:7, 8; 1 John 2:28; 3:2]

394

(Apart from sin): Or, without sin, with no reference to sin; not to deal with sin, not as a sin-bearer. The latter is probably close to the mark. The first time Christ became visible or manifest was as a sin-offering. The second time he becomes visible will not be as a sin-offering – that having been given “once for all time” – but rather relating to the judgment mentioned in the previous verse. [Compare Matthew 25:31-46; Daniel 12:2; John 5:28, 29; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 John 2:28; 4:17.]

395

To those earnestly awaiting him for their salvation: Or, KJV: unto them that look for him; ASV: wait for; RHM: ardently waiting; WEY: eagerly expecting. [Luke 12:36; Romans 8:19, 23; 1 Corinthians 1:7; Philippians 3:20, 21; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; Titus 2:13; Jude 21] Though he appears or becomes visible to these, Messiah also is revealed to “all the tribes of the earth” who wail in grief at his Appearing. [Matthew 24:30]

Review Questions on Chapter Nine

Summary of Chapter Nine

Paul describes the Mosaic Tabernacle and the worship-service conducted there by the Hebrew priests. He writes that the Tabernacle served as an “example” or illustration of another means of worship. He discusses the failure of the first system of worship. He contrasts the Mosaic Tabernacle service with that of Christ and the greater and more perfect heavenly Tent. Christ’s blood cleanses the conscience perfectly. Additionally, Christ is also the mediator of a new covenant by virtue of his shed blood. No forgiveness occurs without the spilling of blood. Like the earthly Mosaic Tabernacle, the Celestial Temple also needed a cleansing by Christ’s blood. That ancient Tabernacle was a diagram of heavenly realities. Paul writes that Christ appears visible twice: one at his first manifestation and the second at his coming for judgment.