Hebrews 9:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hebrews 9:11
11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
Chapter Context
Hebrews 9 is a homiletical epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, covenant, holiness. Written during before Jerusalem's destruction (c. 60-70 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Jewish Christians faced persecution pressure to return to Judaism's legal protections.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hebrews and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hebrews 9:11
11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
Analysis
Christ came 'an high priest of good things to come' through 'a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands.' This refers to the heavenly sanctuary, 'not of this building' (creation). Unlike earthly priests who ministered in man-made structures, Christ entered the true, eternal, heavenly sanctuary. His priesthood transcends the earthly and temporary.
Historical Context
The earthly tabernacle and temple were always meant as copies of heavenly realities (Exodus 25:40; Hebrews 8:5). Christ's ministry in the heavenly sanctuary fulfills what the earthly structures could only shadow.
Reflection
- How does Christ's ministry in the heavenly sanctuary give you access to eternal realities?
- What 'good things to come' have you received through Christ's high priestly work?
Word Studies
- Messiah: Χριστός (Christos) G5547 - Christ, Anointed One
Cross-References
- References Christ: Hebrews 3:1, John 4:25, 1 John 5:20
- Creation: Hebrews 2:17, Mark 14:58, John 1:14, Acts 7:48, 2 Corinthians 5:1
- Good: Hebrews 10:1
- Parallel theme: Psalms 40:7