Verses 7–13
The superior excellence of the priesthood of Christ, above that of Aaron, is shown from that
covenant of grace, of which Christ was Mediator. The law not only made all subject to it, liable to
be condemned for the guilt of sin, but also was unable to remove that guilt, and clear the conscience
from the sense and terror of it. Whereas, by the blood of Christ, a full remission of sins was provided,
so that God would remember them no more. God once wrote his laws to his people, now he will
write his laws in them; he will give them understanding to know and to believe his laws; he will
give them memories to retain them; he will give them hearts to love them, courage to profess them,
and power to put them in practice. This is the foundation of the covenant; and when this is laid,
duty will be done wisely, sincerely, readily, easily, resolutely, constantly, and with comfort. A
plentiful outpouring of the Spirit of God will make the ministration of the gospel so effectual, that
there shall be a mighty increase and spreading of Christian knowledge in persons of all sorts. Oh
that this promise might be fulfilled in our days, that the hand of God may be with his ministers so
that great numbers may believe, and be turned to the Lord! The pardon of sin will always be found
to accompany the true knowledge of God. Notice the freeness of this pardon; its fulness; its fixedness.
This pardoning mercy is connected with all other spiritual mercies: unpardoned sin hinders mercy,
and pulls down judgments; but the pardon of sin prevents judgment, and opens a wide door to all
spiritual blessings. Let us search whether we are taught by the Holy Spirit to know Christ, so as
uprightly to love, fear, trust, and obey him. All worldly vanities, outward privileges, or mere notions
of religion, will soon vanish away, and leave those who trust in them miserable for ever.
Chapter 9
Chapter Outline
The Jewish tabernacle and its utensils. (1–5)
Their use and meaning. (6–10)
These fulfilled in Christ. (11–22)
The necessity, superior dignity, and power (23–28)
of his priesthood and sacrifice.Verses 1–5
The apostle shows to the Hebrews the typical reference of their ceremonies to Christ. The
tabernacle was a movable temple, shadowing forth the unsettled state of the church upon earth, and
the human nature of the Lord Jesus Christ, in whom the fulness of the Godhead dwelt bodily. The
typical meaning of these things has been shown in former remarks, and the ordinances and articles
of the Mosaic covenant point out Christ as our Light, and as the Bread of life to our souls; and
remind us of his Divine Person, his holy priesthood, perfect righteousness, and all-prevailing