Book of Hebrews - Chapter 10 - Verse 20
Meaning
This verse from the book of Hebrews signifies the inauguration of a new and living way for believers to approach God. The author of Hebrews is explaining that Jesus has opened up a path for humanity to enter into the presence of God through his sacrificial death on the cross. The mention of the veil symbolizes the barrier that once separated people from God's holy presence in the Old Testament tabernacle. However, with the death and resurrection of Jesus, this barrier was torn, signifying that believers now have direct access to God through Christ's flesh. By using the phrase "new and living way," the author emphasizes the revolutionary nature of this access and the fact that it is not based on outdated rituals or sacrifices but on the living sacrifice of Jesus.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of Hebrews 10:20 focuses on the idea that Jesus' sacrifice on the cross provides believers with a new and living way to approach God. The phrase "new and living way" emphasizes the contrast between the old covenant, which required animal sacrifices and rituals, and the new covenant established by Jesus' death and resurrection. Through his sacrificial death, Christ consecrated this new way for believers, symbolized by the veil being torn in the temple. The veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place was a physical barrier that only the high priest could pass through once a year. However, with Jesus' sacrifice, the veil representing his flesh was torn, symbolizing that all believers now have direct access to God through faith in Christ. This theological interpretation highlights the significance of Jesus' atoning work in bringing reconciliation between God and humanity, enabling believers to approach God with confidence and boldness.