The Forgiven

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Summary

The letter to the Hebrews closes its argument about the priesthood of Christ with a promise: under the new covenant, God says He will remember our sins and lawless deeds no more. That promise is the ground for everything that follows. Because the blood of Jesus has opened a new and living way into God’s presence, the writer says we may draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience.

The forgiven are people who no longer need to earn what has already been given. Christ’s one sacrifice put away sin completely, so guilt does not have the final word over anyone who trusts Him. The right response is not fear but confidence — holding fast to our confession of hope, and gathering with God’s people to encourage one another as the day draws near.

Essential truths

  1. Under the new covenant, God promises to remember our sins and lawless deeds no more.
  2. Christ's single sacrifice has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.
  3. Because of His blood, believers may draw near to God with a true heart and full assurance of faith.
  4. Our consciences have been cleansed, not just our outward lives.

Encouragement and challenge

Live as someone who is truly forgiven — draw near to God with confidence rather than guilt, hold fast to your hope, and keep gathering with God's people to spur one another on.

Reference verses

  • Hebrews 10:16-18
  • Hebrews 10:19-22
  • Hebrews 10:23
  • Hebrews 10:25
  • Jeremiah 31:33-34

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