The Power of True Redemption

(A Blog on Hebrews 9:11-12)

Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam on the Sistine Chapel ceiling vividly illustrates the moment when God breathes life into Adam, symbolizing humanity’s dual nature – body and soul. This timeless artwork echoes a fundamental truth found in Scripture: as human beings, we are more than just flesh; we have an immaterial soul. Genesis 2:7 tells us that God formed man from the dust and breathed life into him, making him a living being. This understanding is crucial when we consider our spiritual needs and how they can only be fulfilled through Christ.

Understanding the Audience of Hebrews

The letter to the Hebrews was written primarily to Jewish Christians who had embraced the gospel but were struggling to move beyond their deep-rooted traditions. Raised under the Law of Moses, many were familiar with the religious ceremonies that had been passed down for generations. For some, these practices were a source of comfort, but the author of Hebrews makes it clear that these rituals were never meant to be the end goal. They were fading away, replaced by the new and better covenant established by Jesus Christ.

The Earthly Tabernacle: A Temporary Symbol

One example of change was seen in the earthly tabernacle. Hebrews 9:1-8 provides a detailed look at the earthly Tabernacle, a sacred structure carried by the Israelites during their wilderness journey. This portable tent housed the implements necessary for worship and served as a symbol of God’s presence. Yet these rituals addressed only external actions.

The author of Hebrews states in verse 10 that these practices “relate only to food and drink and various washings” and were imposed “until a time of reformation.” Chuck Swindoll captures this well:

“External activities, no matter how perfectly performed, cannot cleanse a guilty conscience.”

The Tabernacle and its rituals pointed to something far greater—they were temporary solutions that could never fully cleanse the soul.

Thoughts to Consider:

• What modern religious practices do we rely on for spiritual security?

• How can these practices support our faith without becoming the primary focus?

Jesus: Our Eternal High Priest

The turning point in Hebrews 9 comes with four simple yet profound words: “But when Christ appeared.” With this statement, the focus shifts from the external to the internal. Unlike the Old Covenant, which required repeated animal sacrifices, Christ offered His blood in the heavenly Tabernacle, securing eternal redemption for all.

Hebrews 9:11-14 emphasizes that while the blood of goats and bulls provided ceremonial cleansing, it could never address the deeper, internal issue of sin. A.W. Tozer once said,

“The work of Christ on the cross was not only to bear our sins but to complete all that was needed for our redemption. We are called to receive Him, not to help Him.”

Jesus’ sacrifice was sufficient and final, offering us true freedom and a clear conscience. His work means we no longer need to live under the burden of guilt or strive to “earn” forgiveness. We are called to live joyfully, fully accepting that our High Priest has made a way for us.

Questions to Reflect On:

• Why do we sometimes feel tempted to rely on rituals or “dead works?"

• How does understanding Jesus as our High Priest change your approach to worship and forgiveness?

The Trap of External Religion

It’s easy to fall into the mindset that if we do enough – serve more, give more, or keep from sinning long enough – we will feel right with God. However, as many believers can attest, this sense of security is often short-lived. True transformation and peace come only through a relationship with Jesus.

Hebrews 9 reminds us that the Tabernacle and religious rituals were never meant to cleanse the soul. They are at best symbolic, pointing us to the reality of our need for Christ. The real Tabernacle is in heaven, where Jesus intercedes for us.

Moving Forward: Embracing True Spiritual Life

1. Release the Emphasis on the External. While church attendance, prayer, and fellowship are essential, they are not the source of our salvation. True fulfillment comes from a deep, personal relationship with God. As John 6:63 says, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all.”

A.W. Tozer puts it well:

“We cannot live for the externals, for when we do, our spirits wither and die. God seeks those who worship Him in spirit and in truth.”

2. Refocus on the Internal Look beyond the symbols and practices to the essence of your faith – a relationship with God. As 2 Corinthians 4:18 reminds us, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” True faith goes beyond rituals and leads to a genuine encounter with the Living God.

Final Thoughts: Take a moment to reflect on where you place your emphasis. Are you focused on external practices or nurturing a deeper relationship with Jesus? The power of redemption lies not in rituals but in the finished work of Christ, who invites us into lasting communion with Him.

Until next time…Stay strong in Lord!

Pastor Bob

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About Pastor Bob Moya, DMin.

Pastor Bob Moya has served as the lead pastor with his wife Candace at City Chapel in Arlington, Texas for over 24+ years. He recently graduated with a doctorate degree in Spiritual Renewal and Leadership in the spring of 2024. When not serving at the church, you'll find Bob enjoying a good read at Barnes & Noble, sipping a nitro cold brew or black coffee from Starbucks, or spending time with his family.