But This Man
“But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. For by one offering he hath perfected forever them that are sanctified” (Heb 10:12-14 KJV).
Recognizing the inefficacy of the Old Testament priesthood and sacrifices, the author brimmed with enthusiasm as he wrote of the divine provision. First, he wished to present a unique Person. He understood the need of Aaron’s priesthood to sustain and support the people of Israel in the circumstances of their spiritual pathway. Unfortunately, men who had earlier undertaken these roles had failed in their service for God and His people. It thrilled his soul to introduce the contrast – “but this man” – Christ Jesus. Without question, the One who created and sustained the entire universe would be able to uphold and preserve His people. This Man is unequalled in every realm.
Then the writer moved on to the unfailing provision – “after he had offered one sacrifice for sins.” What a tremendous contrast between this Priest, with the value of His sacrifice, and the OT priests and sacrifices! The shortcomings of the earlier service and sacrifices were unmistakable. The sacrifices offered, whether for the need of individuals or the nation, could never take away sins and convey the consciousness of forgiveness. They provided a temporary covering for sin, but, in reality, a sacrifice was needed for every sin that was committed! The work of the mediating priest never ended. But notice the contrast: this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins, sat down. Newberry’s translation gives “to perpetuity” – He would never have to repeat the work because His sacrifice had an eternal value. Those who came to God for cleansing were purified forever.
Consider His unassailable position. The writer was aware of failure and, on occasion, departure in the lives of the priests appointed to serve for the people of Israel. They were not permitted to continue in their priestly function because of their errancy. He also knew that there were times when the priesthood had been forcibly terminated. He had no such fears concerning this High Priest. He is “holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens” (7:26 KJV). The Scriptures also say that Christ was manifested both to take away our sins and destroy the works of the devil. In Him is no sin. The believers rejoiced that God had raised Christ from the dead and set Him at His right hand, far above all principality and power.
This Man enjoys an unchanging prospect. Over three thousand years ago, God stated that He had set His King upon His holy hill of Zion. This statement was repeated by the Psalmist, quoted a thousand years later in the Gospels, and reiterated by the writer to the Hebrews. The entire creation, both heaven and earth, eagerly awaits the fulfillment of this promise. The God who cannot lie and who will never disappoint His people will unfailingly keep His Word. If you are without the Savior, dear friend, this can be the day of salvation for you. He has made a full and complete provision for your spiritual need and is able to save to the uttermost all who come to God by Him. Why not trust Him now?
