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Book of Hebrews - Chapter 9 - Verse 9

9:9
Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;

Meaning

In this verse, the author of the Letter to the Hebrews is explaining the significance of the Old Testament sacrificial system in relation to the new covenant brought by Christ. The author is highlighting that the offerings and sacrifices made under the old covenant were symbolic in nature and could not ultimately bring about true perfection or complete forgiveness of sins. The sacrifices could temporarily cover sin, but they could not cleanse the conscience of the worshiper completely. This verse serves to contrast the imperfections of the Old Testament sacrifices with the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offers eternal redemption and freedom from guilt for all who believe in him. The sacrifices of the old covenant were merely a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice that was to come in the person of Jesus Christ, who would offer himself once and for all for the sins of humanity.

Theological Overview

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