Hebrews 9
April 25, 2022
“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” (v27-28)
Christ’s first coming was about “bearing sins.” His second coming will be about “bringing salvation.” The latter doesn’t happen, though, without the former. If Christ doesn’t take our judgment and bear our sins, our future can only be marked by despair - since death is the doorway to God’s judgment of our sins. But because Christ died, we “who are waiting for Him” (v28), can now approach death (and each day of this life) with peace, joy and anticipation of the glorious Kingdom He’s bringing!
Jesus, thank You for facing down death and judgment, so I wouldn’t have to. Thank You for the peace and joy that is now mine when I contemplate my death and Your return. I feel no fear of death anymore. I have no dread of judgment anymore - because You took out death and took on all my judgment. Hallelujah! I truly rejoice in You, Lord, because “there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ!” (Rom 8:1)
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
