Once For All
“He entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption.” - Hebrews 9:12
Sin entered the world through Adam and Eve, and ever since, every person has lived under the weight of a broken law. Scripture teaches that to break even one part of God’s law is to become guilty of all of it (James 2:10). Whether it’s something we think is “small,” like lying, or something we consider “big,” like murder…sin is sin, and it separates us from God.
In the Old Covenant, God made a way for sin to be temporarily covered. The high priest would enter the tent (the earthly tabernacle) and offer sacrifices, the blood of flawless calves and goats, for his own sins and for the sins of the people (Hebrews 9:6–7). Scripture reminds us, “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins” (Hebrews 9:22 ESV).
But all of this was pointing forward to something better.
When Jesus came, He Himself became the greater and perfect tent, not made by human hands (Hebrews 9:11). Instead of offering the blood of animals year after year, He offered His own blood (holy, spotless, and sufficient) to cleanse us from all sin.
Jesus is the perfect Lamb of God, and through His sacrifice, sin has been dealt with once and for all.
“He has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.”
— Hebrews 9:26 ESV
Because of His death and resurrection, we have a new and better covenant. We have forgiveness. We have salvation. And we have hope because Christ is coming again.
“So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.”
— Hebrews 9:28 ESV
For those who are found in Christ, this is our joy:
Our sins are forgiven. Our salvation is secure. And our Savior is returning.
Reflection Questions
Do I truly believe that Jesus’ sacrifice is enough to cover all my sin?
Am I eagerly waiting for Christ’s return, living in the freedom He purchased for me?
Application
Walk today in the freedom Jesus purchased for you. You do not have to carry shame from your past because His blood has already paid for it. Live boldly in obedience knowing that you stand under a better covenant sealed by the perfect Lamb. Let the reality of Christ’s sacrifice and His coming return shape your choices, your thoughts, and your purpose. Lift your eyes and walk as someone who has been eternally redeemed.
Prayer
Jesus, thank You for shedding Your blood for me. Thank You for being my perfect High Priest and the perfect Lamb. Help me walk in the freedom You purchased and to eagerly await Your return. Amen.