Blood

In biblical times, blood was used for various things. For the purpose of this bulletin, we're going to discuss the two Covenants which used blood symbolically.

The first covenant, also known as the Mosaic Law, was during the Old Testament. This covenant used animal sacrifices which were dedicated by blood. Hebrews 9:18 says, "Therefore not even the first covenant was dedicated without blood." These sacrifices were also temporary as well and a reminder of the sins which were unable to forgive. Hebrews 10:3-4, "But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins." And, of course, due to it's temporary nature and ineffectiveness, God's will was that it was removed. Hebrews 10:9, "then he said, 'Behold, I have come to do your will, O God. He takes away the first that He may establish the second."

The second covenant was also dedicated by blood, but in a very different manner. As opposed to the blood of bulls & goats, this covenant was dedicated by the blood of Christ Jesus'. Hebrews 9:18-25. Also apart from animal sacrifices, Christ's blood is effective, reaching sins before the cross. Hebrews 9:15, "And for this reason He is the Mediator of the new covenant, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the first covenant, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance." Christ's blood, of course, covers all sin as well. Hebrews 10:10, "By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of all the body of Jesus Christ once for all." And lastly, due to its perfect nature, Christ's covenant is eternal. Hebrews 13:20, "Now may the God of peace who brought up out Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant."    

- Jordan Hopkins