1. The first section (1:1-4:13) emphasizes "the superiority of Christ as God's spokesman." 2. The second section (4:14-ch.10) emphasizes "the superiority of Christ as High Priest." 3. Ch.9 shows how Christ serves as High Priest in a better tabernacle. 4. The information revealed in this chapter helps us to more fully understand and appreciate the great prophecies given in Isaiah 53 and Jeremiah 31:31-34. Discussion: I. (9:1-7) THE TABERNACLE OF THE OLD COVENANT IS DISCUSSED
A. (vs.1-5) Its furnishings are listed. B. (vs.6-7) The sacrifices offered in it are mentioned. 1. Certain sacrifices were offered continually (Exodus 29:38-43). 2. A special sacrifice was offered once each year by the high priest on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:29-34). II. (9:8-10) THE TABERNACLE, WITH ITS FURNISHINGS AND SACRIFICES, SERVED AS A FIGURE OF SOMETHING ELSE THAT WOULD BE MUCH BETTER III. (9:11-14) TODAY, CHRIST SERVES AS HIGH PRIEST IN A GREATER AND MORE PERFECT TABERNACLE
A. His tabernacle is not made with hands (see vs.24). B. He entered into the holy place once, making eternal redemption available. C. His blood makes having a pure conscience possible (compare with vs.9). D. A change in tabernacles implies a change in covenants. IV. (9:15-22) WHEN CHRIST DIED, HIS NEW TESTAMENT BECAME EFFECTIVE
A. (vs.15) Christ died on behalf of those who lived when the old covenant was in effect. B. Without the shedding of Christ's blood, there could be no remission of sins. V. (9:23-28) THE LORD'S SACRIFICE IS SUPERIOR TO THE SACRIFICES OFFERED IN THE OLD TABERNACLE
