With this passage the author of Hebrews shows his readers that the New Covenant blessings inaugurated and mediated by Christ Jesus are both shadow-dissolving present realities, and present eternal realities. Keep this theological context in mind as you discuss the questions.

1 - What is the overarching argument, or point, that the author of Hebrews is making in this passage?

2 - Discuss the context of the passage. Who were the original readers? Why would this passage be paradigm-shifting for them? Why is understanding context essential for properly understanding God’s Word? (Yes, essential)

3 - Read Hebrews 9:11 and 24. What are the differences between the earthly tabernacle/temple, and the heavenly holy places? Why, or how, is the heavenly holy place superior?

4 - Why does God require blood sacrifices? What does this teach us about God and about sin?

5 - Why couldn’t God’s people continue with animal sacrifices?

6 - Why is the blood of the Lord Jesus superior, i.e., what does it accomplish? Why do we need it?

7 - Examining our passage and verse 15, what does the author of Hebrews say is eternal or once for all? What does this teach us about what Christ accomplished on the cross?

8 - What truths about the Lord God have you learned from this passage?