In the book of Hebrews, we are given a profound and awe-inspiring glimpse into the heavenly ministry of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 9:24–28 declares:
“For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others;
For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.
And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”
This passage points us to the completed, perfect work of Jesus Christ. Unlike the earthly priests of the Old Testament who had to repeatedly offer sacrifices in the tabernacle—structures made by human hands—Christ entered into heaven itself, the true and eternal holy place, on our behalf.
A Better Sacrifice
The Old Testament sacrifices, though commanded by God, were only shadows—temporary and symbolic acts that pointed forward to something greater. They were repeated year after year, yet they could never truly take away sin (Hebrews 10:1-4). But Jesus, the Lamb of God, came to fulfill what those sacrifices only hinted at. He offered Himself once, a single, all-sufficient sacrifice that put away sin permanently.
This “once-for-all” offering of Christ at the end of the ages marked the climax of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus did not need to suffer repeatedly. His blood was not like the blood of bulls and goats. It was divine, pure, and powerful—sufficient to cleanse all who believe.
The Reality of Death and Judgment
Verse 27 is often quoted, and rightly so: “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” This verse reminds us of two unavoidable truths: we will all die, and we will all stand before God. There are no second chances after death, no reincarnation, no purgatory. Just the reality of judgment.
But for the believer, that judgment has already been borne by Christ. On the cross, He absorbed the wrath that was meant for us. He took the punishment so we could receive mercy. When we put our trust in Him, we are covered by His righteousness and no longer condemned (Romans 8:1).
A Glorious Second Coming
And here is our blessed hope: “Unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” The first time Christ came, it was in humility—to bear sin. The next time He comes, it will be in glory—to bring final salvation to His people and to reign as King of kings.
His return is not for judgment against the believer, but for the completion of our redemption. We eagerly wait for that day when our faith will be sight, and we shall be with Him forever.
Conclusion
Jesus is not merely a historical figure who died on a cross. He is our risen High Priest, alive and active, now appearing in the presence of God for us. His one-time sacrifice is enough to cleanse us from all sin and bring us into eternal fellowship with the Father. Let us rest in His finished work, prepare our hearts for His return, and proclaim His name to a world in need of salvation.
Are you looking for Him?
Are you trusting in His sacrifice?
If so, then rejoice—your redemption draws near.