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It was necessary therefore that the copies of the things in the heavens should be cleansed with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.

Verse Takeaways

1

A Fitting Sacrifice

Commentators explain that the earthly tabernacle, being a mere “copy,” was appropriately cleansed by the blood of animals. However, the “heavenly things”—the true reality of God's presence—required a sacrifice of corresponding, infinite value. This shows the logical necessity for Christ's “better sacrifice” to purify the true sanctuary.

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Hebrews

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Commentaries

11

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Hebrews 9:23

18th Century

Theologian

The patterns of things in the heavens. These are the tabernacle and its various utensils. (See the notes on Hebrews 8:5).

Be pu…

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On Hebrews 9:23

The copies (τα υποδειγματα). See 8:5 for this word, the earthly (8:4; 9:1) tabernacle.

With these (τουτοις…

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Hebrews 9:23

19th Century

Bishop

The patterns of things in the heavens.—Rather, the tokens (Hebrews 8:5) of the things in the heavens.

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Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Hebrews 9:18–26

19th Century

Preacher

Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the l…

Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On Hebrews 9:23

“It was necessary” points to something more than expediency or the selection of one among a number of possible actions. There was no other way, bec…

John Calvin

John Calvin

On Hebrews 9:23

16th Century

Theologian

The patterns, or exemplars, etc. In case anyone should object and say that the blood by which the Old Testament was dedicated was…

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John Gill

John Gill

On Hebrews 9:23

17th Century

Pastor

It was therefore necessary
On account of the divine appointment, and that types and antitypes might correspond; and …

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Hebrews 9:23–28

17th Century

Minister

It is evident that the sacrifices of Christ are infinitely better than those of the law, which could neither obtain pardon for sin nor grant power …