December 12, 2019: SOAP #3661:  Hebrews 5-8

Scripture:  Hebrews (NIV) 8:5 They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” 6 But the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, and it is founded on better promises.

Observation:  After the Israelite’s were delivered from their bondage in Egypt, God led them to Mt. Sinai where Moses was shown the pattern and led them in building the tabernacle.  They worshiped God in a tent of animal skins with furniture made of the wood growing in the wilderness.  For sacrifices, they used animals from their flocks.

The single sacrifice of Jesus put an end to all animal sacrifices and brought us into a new covenant relationship with God.

Application:   The Jewish religion was brought by Moses from time on the Mount Sinai.  It was brought from heaven to earth where people could relate to God.  Through Jesus, we are lifted back to worship in the heavenlies.  The Jewish religion was brought as a pattern from heaven to man.  In entering the human race as a Jew through a virgin birth, in living a perfect life without sin, and in providing the perfect sacrifice, Jesus made the way to bring man into the original heavenly tabernacle.

The Jewish religion came from heaven.  Jesus brought Christianity out of the Jewish religion to worship at the true tabernacle in heaven.

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, you chose the people of Israel to be the doorway through which Jesus, the Messiah, would enter the stream of humanity.  With thanksgiving for the Jews, I pray for your protection to be theirs as individuals and as a nation.  I am also thankful that President Donald Trump has honored Israel by moving the US Embassy to the city of Jerusalem.  Bless him as you have promised.  In the mighty Name of Jesus I pray, Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!