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The human heart often grapples with a sense of separation, a yearning for a connection with the divine that feels just out of reach. This inherent longing can manifest as spiritual struggle, a wrestling with the weight of sin and the perceived distance from a holy God. Yet, Scripture offers a profound anchor, revealing a path to intimacy that transcends human effort and ritual.
These are not merely ancient words; they are living, active truths designed to equip and transform. This collection of verses serves as spiritual ammunition, designed to fortify faith and illuminate the path toward a closer walk with the Creator.
Our purpose in exploring these powerful passages is to foster deeper spiritual intimacy and lasting heart change. By meditating on these truths, believers are invited to renew their minds and draw ever nearer to Christ.
The Significance of the Torn Veil: Access to the Holy of Holies
This section delves into the foundational understanding of the temple veil, its role in ancient worship, and the dramatic symbolism of its rending. These verses are particularly vital for those seeking to understand the historical context of Israel’s worship and the radical new covenant established through Jesus Christ. Believers who feel bound by religious tradition or are seeking to grasp the full implications of Christ’s sacrifice will find foundational truths here.
1
Now the justly appointed High Priest entered the Most Holy Place once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the errors of the people, the Holy Spirit signifying that the way into the holiest places was not yet made manifest while the first tabernacle was still standing. Hebrews 9:7-8 (ESV)
– This passage highlights the limited and conditional access the Old Testament high priest had to God's presence, emphasizing the separation that existed. It prompts us to consider the human limitations and rituals previously required, contrasting them with the direct access we now have through Christ. Meditate on this when you feel spiritual barriers in your own life, remembering that the 'first tabernacle' represented a system that has been superseded.
2
But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent, not made with hands, that is, not of this creation—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 9:11-12 (ESV)
– This verse marks a pivotal shift, introducing Christ as our High Priest who entered the true holy of holies, not a physical structure, but heaven itself. It underscores the efficacy and finality of His sacrifice, which secured an eternal redemption, not a temporary one. Consider this when facing discouragement about past sins, as Christ's blood offers permanent cleansing and access.
3
Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22 (ESV)
– This is a direct invitation to approach God with confidence, made possible by Jesus' sacrifice. The 'curtain' here refers to the veil, and Christ's body is the means by which it was torn. Reflect on the freedom this passage offers from guilt and condemnation, and ask if your heart truly lives in this assurance of access.
4
He entered not into a sanctuary made with hands, which is a copy of the true one, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. Hebrews 9:24 (ESV)
– This verse emphasizes that Jesus' entry was not into an earthly copy but into the very presence of God in heaven. He acts as our intercessor, appearing before God on our behalf. Consider how this intercessory work impacts your prayers and your understanding of God's perspective on your life.
5
And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. Matthew 27:50-51a (ESV)
– This is the pivotal moment where the physical veil in the Jerusalem temple was torn at Jesus' death, signifying a radical, divine act. This tearing was not initiated by human hands but from top to bottom, indicating God's direct action in opening the way. Reflect on the immense power and love demonstrated by God in this act, making the ultimate sacrifice for our access.
6
The veil of the temple was torn in two. Mark 15:38 (ESV)
– This concise account highlights the dramatic supernatural event that occurred at Jesus' death. The tearing of the veil was a public declaration that the barrier between humanity and God had been removed. Consider this when feeling the weight of sin or shame; the veil's tearing signifies that these are no longer insurmountable obstacles to God's presence.
7
And Jesus, again crying out with a loud voice, yielded up his spirit. And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. Matthew 27:50-51 (ESV)
– The repetition across the Gospels underscores the significance of this event. The phrase 'from top to bottom' is crucial, signifying that this was God's initiative, not man's. It demonstrates that access to God is a gift, not something earned or achieved through human effort.
8
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Romans 8:31-32 (ESV)
– While not directly mentioning the veil, these verses offer the theological framework for understanding its significance. If God gave His Son for us, making access possible, then what obstacle can truly stand against us? Consider this when facing personal challenges or spiritual opposition; God's provision for our access is the ultimate assurance.
9
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9 (ESV)
– This foundational passage on salvation by grace through faith is directly related to the tearing of the veil. The access it provides is not earned but freely given. Ask yourself if you are living in the freedom of this grace, or if you are still striving to earn God's favor through your own efforts.
10
For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. John 1:17 (ESV)
– This verse draws a clear contrast between the Old Covenant (represented by the law and the system it required, including the veil) and the New Covenant. Grace and truth, the essence of our access, are embodied in Jesus. Meditate on how the 'truth' of Christ has revealed God more fully than the 'law' ever could, and how 'grace' empowers your relationship with Him.
These initial verses establish the profound theological shift brought about by Christ’s sacrifice. The tearing of the veil was not merely a historical event but the divine inauguration of a new and living way into God’s presence. Understanding this foundational truth is crucial for embracing the fullness of our Christian walk.
Living in the Freedom of Direct Access
This section focuses on the practical implications of the torn veil for believers today. It explores how this access to God impacts our daily lives, empowering us to live without fear and to minister to others with confidence. These verses are for those who desire to move beyond theoretical knowledge to a lived experience of God’s presence and power.
11
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16 (ESV)
– This verse is a direct application of the opened access. We can approach God's 'throne of grace' with confidence, not fear, knowing we will find mercy and timely help. Consider when you last approached God in need, and whether you did so with boldness or hesitation, reflecting on the assurance Christ's sacrifice provides.
12
And when he had said this, Jesus was taken up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. Mark 16:19 (ESV)
– Jesus' ascension and seating at the right hand of God signifies His authoritative position as our High Priest and Advocate. This is where He intercedes for us, constantly ensuring our access to the Father. Reflect on the comfort of knowing Jesus is actively representing you before God, continually securing your access.
13
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15 (ESV)
– This verse speaks to the relational aspect of our access. Jesus understands our struggles because He experienced them Himself. This should embolden us to come to Him with our weaknesses, knowing He is both compassionate and capable of helping. Consider how this empathy might change how you confess your struggles to God.
14
Through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. Ephesians 2:18 (ESV)
– This verse beautifully illustrates the Trinitarian nature of our access. It is through Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit, that we come to the Father. This emphasizes the unity and communal aspect of our access to God. Reflect on how the Holy Spirit empowers your prayer life and connection with God.
15
In him we have boldness and confident access through faith in him. Ephesians 3:12 (ESV)
– The concept of 'boldness' is key here, directly stemming from the torn veil. Our faith in Christ grants us fearless entry into God's presence. Ask yourself if you are living out this boldness in your interactions with God, or if fear and doubt still hinder you.
16
Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal life. Hebrews 6:1-2 (ESV)
– This passage encourages moving beyond the foundational understanding of access (like the symbolism of the veil) to deeper spiritual maturity. It implies that true Christian life involves pressing on into a richer experience of God. Consider if you are resting on the elementary truths, or actively pursuing deeper intimacy with God.
17
But the free gift is not like the offense. For if many died through one man's offense, much more have the grace of God and the gift by grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. Romans 5:15 (ESV)
– This verse highlights the superabundance of God's grace and the gift of access through Christ, far outweighing the sin that created the initial separation. It encourages us to marvel at the magnitude of God's provision. Reflect on the vastness of God's grace in providing such complete access, especially when you feel your own shortcomings.
18
So then, as through one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so through one man's obedience many will be made righteous. Romans 5:19 (ESV)
– This verse contrasts the disobedience of Adam, which brought separation, with the obedience of Christ, which restores righteousness and access. It underscores that Christ's work is the sole reason for our ability to stand before God. Consider how Christ's perfect obedience serves as the foundation for your standing before God.
19
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)
– The torn veil removes the basis for fear in approaching God. This verse reassures believers that the Holy Spirit empowers us for confident living and relationship with God. Ask yourself where fear is dictating your approach to God or spiritual matters, and recall that the Spirit provides the opposite: power, love, and sound judgment.
20
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:7 (ESV)
– This verse connects our ongoing walk with God to the cleansing provided by Jesus' blood, which made our access possible. Fellowship implies a close, intimate relationship. Meditate on what it means to 'walk in the light' and how it sustains the fellowship that the torn veil made possible.
The revelation of direct access to God through Christ transforms the believer’s spiritual landscape. It shifts the focus from external rituals to an internal, relational reality empowered by the Holy Spirit. This freedom from fear and condemnation is the hallmark of the new covenant, inviting us into deeper intimacy.
Overcoming Barriers and Embracing God’s Presence
This final section addresses the ongoing reality of spiritual barriers and encourages believers to actively embrace the access Christ has secured. It calls for perseverance in faith and a conscious reliance on God’s presence in every aspect of life. These verses are for those who are seeking to overcome recurring spiritual challenges and live fully in the freedom Christ has provided.
21
But the time is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. John 4:23 (ESV)
– This verse describes the nature of worship in the new covenant, made possible by the torn veil. True worship is no longer confined to a physical location or specific rituals but is offered in spirit and truth, directly to God. Consider if your worship is primarily outward or if it flows from a genuine inner connection with God, facilitated by Christ's access.
22
So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:6-7 (ESV)
– This passage reminds us that our journey of faith involves walking by sight, trusting in the reality of God's presence accessible through Christ, even when we don't physically see Him. The torn veil grants us this inward assurance. Reflect on how your faith is guiding your perception of God's presence, rather than your physical senses.
23
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 (ESV)
– This rhetorical question, following the profound revelation of God's provision and the tearing of the veil, calls us to ultimate confidence. It challenges us to consider that if God has made such a way for us, no opposition can ultimately prevail against us. Ask yourself what fears or obstacles still make you doubt God's ultimate victory in your life.
24
For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14 (ESV)
– This verse powerfully describes the spiritual transition that occurs through Christ, moving us from a place of spiritual darkness into God's kingdom. This transfer is the result of the access Christ has secured. Consider the magnitude of this rescue and transfer, and how it impacts your identity and daily choices.
25
Therefore let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal life. Hebrews 6:1 (ESV)
– This verse echoes Hebrews 6:1-2, urging believers to build upon the foundational truth of access into a mature faith. It implies that understanding the torn veil is a starting point for a lifelong journey of growing in intimacy with God. Meditate on whether you are content with the foundational understanding of God's access, or if you are actively pursuing deeper spiritual growth.
26
For the Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. Romans 8:16 (ESV)
– The Holy Spirit confirms our identity as children of God, a relationship made possible by the torn veil and Christ's work. This inner witness is a constant assurance of our belonging and access. Reflect on how this inner confirmation impacts your sense of security and your ability to approach God without hesitation.
27
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. Revelation 21:3 (ESV)
– This prophetic glimpse of the new creation underscores the ultimate fulfillment of the torn veil's promise: God dwelling fully with His people. It is the culmination of the direct access Christ has secured. Consider how this future reality should shape your present pursuit of God's presence.
28
But the one who is united with the Lord becomes one spirit with him. 1 Corinthians 6:17 (ESV)
– This verse speaks to the profound intimacy that is possible through our union with Christ, a union that allows for direct, unhindered fellowship with God. The torn veil is the gateway to this deep spiritual oneness. Reflect on what it truly means to be 'one spirit' with the Lord and how this influences your desire for Him.
29
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of God. Hebrews 12:1-2 (ESV)
– This passage encourages perseverance in our Christian journey, reminding us that our access to God is empowered by the example of Christ and the community of faith. The torn veil is the path upon which we run this race. Consider how the examples of faith around you, and the ultimate example of Jesus, inspire you to keep drawing near to God.
30
For the law makes nothing perfect, but the introduction of a better hope, through which we draw near to God. Hebrews 7:19 (ESV)
– This verse concludes by reinforcing that the Old Covenant system (with its veil) could not bring perfection or true access. Christ, however, provides a 'better hope' that allows us to draw near to God. Meditate on this 'better hope' and how it empowers you to live in continuous relationship with God, rather than striving for a perfection the law could never provide.
A Final Word for Your Journey
May these verses serve as a constant reminder of the incredible access Christ has secured for you. Take one verse today and let it anchor your quiet time, confident that God is actively at work transforming your heart through His Word.