Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Eternal Inheritance

Hebrews 9:15

Almost every word in this verse is a key word. The main key words are: covenant, inheritance, and ransom. This verse connects to the previous verses: "for this reason" refers to the superiority of Christ's sacrifice and tabernacle. Because Christ's sacrifice and blood has cleansed us eternally and completely, he is the mediator of the new covenant. It also connects to the subsequent verses in that the idea of an inheritance is continued: we only receive an inheritance when someone dies and the new "will" or "covenant" only comes into effect when someone dies. Therefore, the death of Christ is necessary for the covenant to come into effect and for us to receive our inheritance.
As one who has been called, I live free of the old covenant and the sins committed under the old covenant by the death and blood of Christ. In this season of advent, I think it is essential for me to remember that the story of Christmas does not end in a manger but climaxes in a cross and an empty grave. The hope of Christmas is realized in the crucifixion.

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