A New Way

A New Way

Hebrews 10:19-20

“Therefore, brethren, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh.”

There is an interesting detail about this verse that some translations miss out on. Many translations use the word “open” instead of “inaugurate”. Here are a couple looks at that verse in a few versions:

NIV: “…by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain…”

ESV: “…by the new and living way that He opened for us through the curtain...”

Berean: “…by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain…”

Here’s the problem: the verb that is translated as “open” is better translated as inaugurate, dedicate, or even consecrate. It’s a temple word used to signify a consecration or a dedication.

When Hebrews 10 says that Christ provided a new and living way into the presence of God, He didn’t just “open” a new way. As our Great High Priest, something completely new happened. A new kind of house of God has been inaugurated. By His suffering, death and resurrection, His blood has consecrated a new living way into the presence of God in the Holy of Holies.

The curtain that once separated God and man has been torn down and Jesus has taken its place as the mediator between you, me and our God. That’s why Hebrews goes on to say this:

Hebrews 4:14-16

“Therefore, since we have a Great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God … Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Jesus didn’t just open the door, He became the door and has offered each of us access to the throne of God.

John 14:6

Jesus answered, “I am The Way and The Truth and The Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

Amen and Hallelujah! Boldly enter into the love and presence of our God and King!