For All Time

One of the most mysterious things that came with this world, was the concept of time. Even the segments of creation were divided by a period of time called a day, and that day included a time of darkness and a time of light. Today, everything we do has a measured time to start, and sometimes even an ending time.  Our appointments, the school bells, the work whistle, and even the bells on some churches all signify a particular time. 

Time is not a friend to those who are older, as they desire the times of their youth. Little children struggle through the long school year wondering if it will ever end, while the adults scratch their head and wonder where the time went. 

There is an interesting passage in Hebrews 10 that mentions time. The opening verses set the scene. " The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. If it could, would they not have stopped being offered?" Hebrews 10:1-2

The writer is working toward showing the supreme sacrifice of Jesus which will bring an end to the need for sacrifices. Down in verse 10 he says, "we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

Now notice, "Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins.  But when this priest [Jesus] had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God.”

One sacrifice takes care of the sins of everyone ever living on this earth, including yours and mine, and that sacrifice brings an end to the need of ever having another sacrifice to offer. The Bible says this sacrifice is offered for ALL TIME.

We know that sacrifice was Jesus, giving his life on the cross. That is where the penalty for sin was paid, completely....once and for all.  

I have heard analogies given regarding earthly time and heavenly time, and how God is not bound by time like we are, since he is eternal.  But just this once, God's word says, for ALL  TIME he took care of the sin problem and offered one sacrifice that was acceptable and adequate. He gave his Son.

The justice of God was met, the righteousness of God was upheld, and Satan was defeated. John 3:16 becomes more real to us, when we understand this ONE TIME sacrifice. Truly, "God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." 

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