Hebrews 10:12

But when this Priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, He sat down at the right hand of God.

Study Bible

But when this priest
The phrase "this priest" refers to Jesus Christ, who is depicted as the ultimate High Priest. In the Greek, the word for priest is "ἱερεύς" (hiereus), which traditionally refers to one who offers sacrifices and mediates between God and humanity. Unlike the Levitical priests who continually offered sacrifices, Jesus, as the High Priest, offered Himself once and for all. This highlights His unique and superior role in the divine plan of salvation, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies and priestly functions.

had offered
The Greek word "προσενέγκας" (prosenegkas) is used here, meaning to bring or offer up. This signifies the deliberate and willing act of Jesus offering Himself. Unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant, Jesus' offering was singular and complete, emphasizing the sufficiency and finality of His sacrifice.

for all time
The phrase "for all time" underscores the eternal efficacy of Christ's sacrifice. The Greek "εἰς τὸ διηνεκές" (eis to dienekes) suggests perpetuity and an unending effect. This contrasts with the temporary and repetitive nature of the Old Testament sacrifices, highlighting the new covenant's superiority and the eternal redemption secured by Christ.

one sacrifice for sins
"One sacrifice" emphasizes the singularity and completeness of Christ's atoning work. The Greek "μίαν θυσίαν" (mian thusian) indicates that no further sacrifices are needed. This sacrifice was for "sins," addressing the root problem of humanity's separation from God. It fulfills the sacrificial system's purpose, as outlined in the Old Testament, and provides a permanent solution to sin.

He sat down
The act of sitting down, "ἐκάθισεν" (ekathisen) in Greek, signifies completion and rest. In the context of the priestly work, it indicates that Jesus' sacrificial work is finished. Unlike the Levitical priests who stood daily to perform their duties, Jesus' sitting down reflects the finality and sufficiency of His atoning work.

at the right hand of God
The "right hand" is a position of honor and authority, as seen in the Greek "ἐν δεξιᾷ τοῦ Θεοῦ" (en dexia tou Theou). This imagery is rooted in the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, where the right hand symbolizes power and favor. Jesus' exaltation to this position confirms His divine authority and the acceptance of His sacrifice by God the Father. It also fulfills the Messianic prophecy found in Psalm 110:1, affirming Jesus as the promised Messiah and King.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest (Jesus Christ)
The central figure in this verse, Jesus is depicted as the ultimate High Priest who offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sins.

2. The Sacrifice
Refers to the singular, all-sufficient sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, which contrasts with the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament.

3. The Right Hand of God
A position of honor and authority, indicating Jesus' exaltation and His completed work of redemption.

4. The Old Testament Sacrificial System
The backdrop against which this verse is set, highlighting the insufficiency of animal sacrifices compared to Christ's perfect offering.

5. The New Covenant
The new relationship between God and humanity established through Jesus' sacrifice, fulfilling the promises of the Old Testament.

Teaching Points

The Sufficiency of Christ's Sacrifice
Jesus' sacrifice is once and for all, unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament. This underscores the completeness and sufficiency of His atonement for our sins.

The Authority of Christ
Sitting at the right hand of God signifies Jesus' authority and His finished work. Believers can rest in the assurance of their salvation and His ongoing intercession.

The Fulfillment of Prophecy
Jesus' position fulfills Old Testament prophecies, affirming the reliability of Scripture and God's faithfulness to His promises.

Living Under the New Covenant
As beneficiaries of the New Covenant, believers are called to live in the freedom and grace provided by Christ's sacrifice, no longer bound by the old sacrificial system.

Encouragement in Perseverance
Understanding Christ's completed work encourages believers to persevere in faith, knowing that their salvation is secure and their High Priest is interceding for them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Jesus as our High Priest change the way you approach God in prayer and worship?

2. In what ways does the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice impact your daily life and your view of sin?

3. How can the knowledge of Jesus sitting at the right hand of God provide comfort and assurance in times of trial?

4. What are some practical ways you can live out the freedom and grace of the New Covenant in your relationships and community?

5. How does the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus' life and work strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 110:1
This verse is echoed in Hebrews 10:12, emphasizing Jesus' position at the right hand of God, a place of authority and fulfillment of messianic prophecy.

Hebrews 7:27
Highlights the uniqueness of Christ's sacrifice, contrasting it with the daily sacrifices of the Levitical priests.

Hebrews 9:12
Discusses how Christ entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, securing eternal redemption.

Romans 8:34
Reinforces the idea of Christ at the right hand of God, interceding for believers.

1 Peter 3:22
Affirms Jesus' exaltation and authority over all powers and authorities.