Hebrews 1:3 speaks of the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ’s work, especially in His role as the Redeemer of sinners. The phrase “made purification for sins” is packed with theological depth, drawing our attention to Jesus’ priestly work in atoning for sin.
Let’s examine this in light of the context and its theological implications.
Christ’s Role as High Priest
The book of Hebrews emphasizes Jesus as our great High Priest. In the Old Testament, priests were responsible for offering sacrifices to cleanse the people of their sins ceremonially. These sacrifices were a temporary and symbolic means of purification, pointing forward to the ultimate and final sacrifice. Hebrews 1:3 declares that Jesus accomplished what those priests and sacrifices could never do—He made a definitive purification for sins through His own death.
The Nature of “Purification”
The word “purification” reflects the removal of sin and its defilement. Sin not only breaks God’s law (the “do”) but also separates humanity from God. The purification Jesus accomplished deals with both the guilt of sin and the alienation it causes. His work restores sinners to a right relationship with God.
Under the old covenant, purification was achieved symbolically through the blood of animals, as described in Leviticus. However, Hebrews repeatedly affirms that “it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins” (Hebrews 10:4). These rituals were mere shadows of the true and perfect sacrifice to come in Christ. Jesus, as both priest and sacrifice, made purification for sins once for all through His atoning death on the cross (Hebrews 10:10, 12).
A Finished Work
The phrase “after making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high” underscores the finality and sufficiency of Jesus’ work. In contrast to the Old Testament priests who stood daily to perform ongoing sacrifices, Jesus “sat down,” signifying that His redemptive work was complete. His single sacrifice is sufficient for all time, never needing repetition.
The Law/Gospel Distinction
This verse highlights the distinction between the demands of the Law and the fulfillment of the Gospel. The Law reveals humanity’s need for purification by showing the depth of sin and the impossibility of self-redemption. The Gospel proclaims the “done” of Christ’s work, where He accomplishes for His people what they could never achieve themselves. Jesus, in His perfect obedience and sacrificial death, fulfills the righteous demands of the Law and provides the grace of the Gospel.
Application for Believers
For those in Christ, the purification for sins is not merely a theological concept but a lived reality. By faith in Jesus, we are cleansed from the guilt and power of sin (1 John 1:9). His work assures us of our standing before God, freeing us from striving for self-righteousness. Moreover, it calls us to worship and gratitude, as we reflect on the One who loved us and gave Himself for us (Galatians 2:20).
In summary, when Hebrews 1:3 says Jesus “made purification for sins,” it declares the glorious truth of His finished work as our Redeemer. He has removed the defilement of sin through His atoning death, fulfilling the Old Testament shadows, and bringing His people into a restored relationship with God. This purification is final, complete, and freely given to all who trust in Him.
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