The concept of "The Veil Removed in Christ" is a profound theological theme found within the New Testament, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. This theme is rooted in the imagery of the veil from the Old Testament and is used to illustrate the transformative power of Christ's redemptive work.

Old Testament Background

The veil in the Old Testament primarily refers to the curtain in the Tabernacle and later the Temple, which separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Exodus 26:33). This veil symbolized the separation between God and humanity due to sin. Only the high priest could pass beyond the veil, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement, to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2-34).

Additionally, the veil is associated with Moses, who covered his face with a veil after speaking with God, as the glory of God made his face shine (Exodus 34:29-35). This veil prevented the Israelites from seeing the fading glory, symbolizing their hardened hearts and inability to fully comprehend God's revelation.

New Testament Revelation

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul expands on the symbolism of the veil in his second letter to the Corinthians. He contrasts the old covenant, represented by the veil, with the new covenant in Christ. Paul writes, "But their minds were closed. For to this day the same veil remains at the reading of the old covenant. It has not been lifted, because only in Christ can it be removed" (2 Corinthians 3:14). Here, the veil represents spiritual blindness and the inability to understand the fullness of God's revelation without Christ.

Paul further explains, "But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away" (2 Corinthians 3:16). In Christ, the barrier that separates humanity from God is removed, allowing believers to behold the glory of the Lord with unveiled faces. This transformation is described as a process of being "transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory" (2 Corinthians 3:18).

The Veil Torn at the Crucifixion

The physical tearing of the Temple veil at the moment of Christ's death is a pivotal event that underscores this theological truth. The Gospels record, "At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom" (Matthew 27:51). This miraculous event signifies the end of the separation between God and humanity, as Christ's sacrifice provides direct access to God for all who believe.

Implications for Believers

The removal of the veil in Christ has profound implications for believers. It signifies the transition from the old covenant of the law to the new covenant of grace. Believers are no longer bound by the limitations of the law but are invited into a personal and intimate relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This access is not limited to a select few but is available to all who turn to Christ in faith.

Furthermore, the removal of the veil empowers believers to live in the freedom of the Spirit. Paul writes, "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom" (2 Corinthians 3:17). This freedom is characterized by a life led by the Spirit, marked by transformation and the ability to reflect God's glory in the world.

Conclusion

The theme of the veil removed in Christ encapsulates the essence of the Gospel message: reconciliation with God through the redemptive work of Jesus. It highlights the transition from the old to the new, from law to grace, and from separation to communion with God. Through Christ, believers are invited to experience the fullness of God's presence and to live transformed lives that reflect His glory.