4-24-18 Today in the Word

DEVOTION FOR TUESDAY, APRIL 24, 2018 Hebrews 7:22–8:13 HE REMEMBERS OUR SINS NO MORE Consider the various electronics that have become obsolete with the arrival of better technology. For example, nobody needs a VCR—not to mention a videotape rewinder—anymore! Very few of us still have a corded telephone. The CD is quickly going the way of the cassette and the eight-track tape. In a similar way, the author of Hebrews argues that the priesthood of the Mosaic Law has been made obsolete by Jesus and the establishment of the new covenant (8:13). The letter has already made the case that Jesus is the perfect high priest: “Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above heavens” (7:26). We have assurance that our given high priest does not reside in an earthly tabernacle but sits “at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven” (8:1). If we trust Him as our Savior, why is Jesus’ priesthood so important to us as believers? Scripture says that our Great High Priest makes it possible for us to have direct access to the throne of God (4:14–16). This relationship was made possible through the new covenant (8:6). The old covenant was a promise between God and His people. But throughout the Old Testament, the prophets told of a “new covenant” (v. 8), which would replace the old and allow people to know God more intimately (v. 11; see Jer. 31:31–34). God never intended the old covenant to be permanent. He knew His Son would come to make atonement for His people once and for all. The priestly ministry of Jesus means that we have this wonderful promise: “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more” (8:12). APPLY THE WORD The old aphorism says to “forgive and forget.” It’s hard enough to forgive; it’s nearly impossible to forget either our own sins or the wrongs done against us. But God has the divine capacity to both forgive our transgressions and forget our failures. What mercy and love! Praise Him today because He remembers your sins no more.