Commentary on Hebrews 9-10
Chuck Smith explains how the book of Hebrews reveals the superiority of the new covenant in Christ over the old covenant, emphasizing the internal transformation through Jesus' sacrifice.
In this sermon, Chuck Smith provides an insightful expository teaching on Hebrews chapters 9 and 10, highlighting the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant established by Jesus Christ. He explains the limitations of the old covenant and the superiority of the new covenant, which brings internal transformation and permanent forgiveness through Christ's sacrifice. Listeners are encouraged to understand the profound spiritual implications of this new relationship with God.
Text
Hebrews chapter 9.
In the eighth chapter of the book of Hebrews, he makes mention of the prophecy in Jeremiah where God said that in those days He was going to make a new covenant with the people, not like the old covenant which was written on the tables of stone. He was going to write His law on the fleshly tablets of their hearts. Now, in the declaration that God is going to make this new covenant, it means that the first covenant would be set aside in order that He might establish the new covenant.
When Jesus took the emblems of Passover, He said, "This cup is a new covenant in my blood which is shed for the remission of sins" (Matthew 26:28). So, the old covenant had the remission of sins through the offering of sacrifices by the priests and on the Day of Atonement by the high priest. But God has established a new covenant, not written on the tables of stone, but God writes His law right on the fleshly tablets of our hearts. So the first covenant has been set aside that God might inaugurate this new covenant through Jesus Christ.
So going on still in chapter 9, carrying over the thought of chapter 8, he is still talking about this new covenant relationship that we have with God and contrasting it with that first covenant that was under the law. Remember the covenant under the law, God said, "And if they will do them, they shall live by them." The first covenant of the law was, "If you will obey Me and all of these statutes, then I will be your God." And the first covenant was established on man\
Sermon Outline
-
I. The Promise of the New Covenant
- God's prophecy in Jeremiah about a new covenant
- Contrast between old covenant on stone and new on hearts
- The setting aside of the first covenant
-
II. The Old Covenant and Its Limitations
- Remission of sins through animal sacrifices
- The role of priests and the Day of Atonement
- Conditional nature of the old covenant
-
III. The Establishment of the New Covenant in Christ
- Jesus' institution of the new covenant at Passover
- The blood of Christ as the basis for remission of sins
- Internal transformation through God's law written on hearts
-
IV. The Superiority of the New Covenant
- The new covenant's permanence and effectiveness
- Contrast with the temporary and external old covenant
- Invitation to live by faith in Christ
Key Quotes
“This cup is a new covenant in my blood which is shed for the remission of sins.” — Chuck Smith
“God writes His law right on the fleshly tablets of our hearts.” — Chuck Smith
“The first covenant has been set aside that God might inaugurate this new covenant through Jesus Christ.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- Embrace the new covenant by trusting in Jesus' sacrifice for your forgiveness.
- Allow God's law to transform your heart, not just your outward behavior.
- Live by faith in the internal work of the Holy Spirit rather than relying on external rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new covenant mentioned in Hebrews?
The new covenant is God's promise to write His law on believers' hearts through Jesus Christ, replacing the old covenant based on the law written on stone tablets.
How does Jesus' sacrifice relate to the new covenant?
Jesus' blood, shed on the cross, inaugurates the new covenant by providing a permanent remission of sins, unlike the temporary sacrifices of the old covenant.
Why was the old covenant set aside?
The old covenant was set aside because it was insufficient for complete forgiveness and transformation, making way for the superior new covenant in Christ.
What role does faith play in the new covenant?
Faith in Jesus Christ is essential to enter the new covenant, as it brings internal change and a restored relationship with God.
Is the law still relevant under the new covenant?
Yes, but the law is now written on believers' hearts by the Holy Spirit, guiding them from within rather than as an external set of rules.