August 13

PART III. - Hebrews 7:26.

IT was the prerogative of the High Priest only to offer the great annual atoning sacrifice; to present holy incense unto the Lord, in the holiest place; to determine all controversies among the people; and to come forth and bless the people in the name of the Lord. Now, in Jesus the substance of all these things are clearly and fully realized. He offered to God the great universal sacrifice for the guilt of a lost world: he made a complete atonement for sin, by the shedding of his precious blood: and with his own blood he entered into the holiest place, and there he offers the incense of his all-prevalent intercession on behalf of all his redeemed people: from thence also hath he sent his spirit to bless his church with light, and comfort, and joy, and to lead them into all truth, and, finally, to eternal glory. Besides, in the end of this age or dispensation he will come forth to consummate the glory of his church, and to bless all his believing people with the fulness of redeeming grace and love. Hence says the Apostle, "Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many, and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:28.)

"Trusting in our Lord alone, A great high priest we have— Jesus, God's beloved Son, Omnipotent to save With the virtue of his blood. Ascending to the holiest place, Pass'd the heavenly courts, and stood Before his Father's face.

There he ever lives to plead His suffering people's cause: Let us, then, pursue our head, And bear his daily cross, 2 B

Hold our pure profession fast, And faithful, unto death, remain; Then the end of faith at last— The crown of life we gain."