7 truths of life, death, and Eternity

 Read Hebrews 9.

This chapter explains and clarifies the confusion found in many false beliefs.

1. The sacrifices under the Old Testament Law never left the worshiper with a clear conscience from sin. (v.9)
During that time, obedience did grant them favor with God, but the process had to be repeated again and again.  Each time it reminded the sinner of their guilt and the need for ultimate redemption. 

2. The Old Testament Law was always meant to be temporary. (v.10)
The plan of God all along was that a time would come when there would be a change to a New Covenant.

3. Jesus Christ was God's Lamb, sacrificed once and for all, "securing our eternal redemption". (v.12)
There is no longer a need for animal sacrifices.  Jesus is not on a cross continuing to bleed.  It was a onetime act.  The debt of the sin of the world has been paid.  Those who accept God's payment in Jesus have life that is guaranteed to last forever.

4. Jesus is alive today to intercede for us in heaven. (v.24)
The Garden Tomb is empty.  He alone is our mediator in prayer (1 Timothy 2:5).  He is our High Priest and urges us to come boldly into the presence of God for help (Hebrews 4:14-16).  And, as believers do sin in this life, "...we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1b).  

5. Humans only die once. (v.27a)
According to the Bible, there is no such thing as reincarnation.  There is no spiritual holding place for second chances after death.  One's eternity depends upon their response to Jesus in this life.

6. Judgment awaits. (v.27b)
Those who have not embraced Jesus in this life will foolishly suffer an eternity of torment for their sin.  In the last paragraph of Revelation 21, the Apostle John describes that day of God's final judgment.  "If anyone's name was not found in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire." (Revelation 21:15)  Jesus spoke of hell being a place where sinners will suffer in "the unquenchable fire" (Mark 9:44).

7. Jesus is coming again. (v.28)
He came the first time to pay our sin debt.  He is coming the second time "to save those who are eagerly waiting for him".  Jesus promised this the night before His crucifixion.  "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also." (John 14:3)  The angels announced it at the ascension of Jesus back to heaven.  "This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven." (Acts 1:11b)  Revelation 19 and 20 provide some detail of the return of Christ and His earthly kingdom.

That is why Jesus is called Savior.