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Hebrews 9:1-5

Then verily the first [covenant] had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly Sanctuary. For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the Candlestick, and the Table, and the Show-bread, which is called the Sanctuary. And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; which had the golden censer and the Ark of the Covenant overlaid round about with gold: wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant: and over it the Cherubim of glory, shadowing the Mercy-seat: of which we cannot now speak particularly.

1. He has shown from the Priest, from the Priesthood, from the Covenant, that that [dispensation] was to have an end. From this point he shows it from the fashion of the tabernacle itself. How? This, he says, [was] the Holy and the Holy of Holies. The holy place then is a symbol of the former period (for there all things are done by means of sacrifices); but the Holy of Holies of this that is now present.

And by the Holy of Holies he means Heaven; and by the veil, Heaven, and the Flesh enters into that within the veil: that is to say, through the veil of His flesh. Supra, 6:19; Hebrews 10:20

And it were well to speak of this passage, taking it up from the beginning. What then does he say? Then verily the first had also (the first what? The Covenant). Ordinances of Divine service. What are ordinances? symbols or rights. Then; as (he means) it has not now. He shows that it had already given place, for (he says) it had at that time; so that now, although it stood, it is not.

And the worldly Sanctuary. He calls it worldly, inasmuch as it was permitted to all to tread it, and in the same house the place was manifest where the priests stood, where the Jews, the Proselytes, the Grecians, the Nazarites. Since, therefore even Gentiles were permitted to tread it, he calls it worldly. For surely the Jews were not the world.

For (he says) there was a tabernacle made; the first, which is called holy, wherein was the Candlestick, and the Table, and the Show-bread. These things are symbols of the world.

And after the second veil (There was then not one veil [only], but there was a veil without also) the tabernacle, which is called holy of holies. Observe how everywhere he calls it a tabernacle in regard of [God's] encamping there.

Which had (he says) a golden Censer, and the ark of the Covenant overlaid round about with gold: wherein was the golden pot that held the manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant. All these things were venerable and conspicuous memorials of the Jewish obstinacy; and the tables of the covenant (for they broke them) And the manna (for they murmured; and therefore handing on the memory thereof to posterity, He commanded it to be laid up in a golden pot). And Aaron's rod that budded. And over it, the Cherubim of glory. What is the Cherubim of glory? He either means the glorious, or those which are under God. Shadowing the mercy-seat.

But in another point of view also he extols these things in his discourse, in order to show that those which come after them are greater. Of which (he says) we cannot now speak particularly. In these words he hints that these were not merely what was seen, but were a sort of enigmas. Of which (he says) we cannot now speak particularly, perhaps because they needed a long discourse.

Hebrews 9:6

2. Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle accomplishing the service [of God]. That is, these things indeed were [there], but the Jews did not enjoy them: they saw them not. So that they were no more theirs than [ours] for whom they prophesied.

Hebrews 9:7

Hebrews 9:7 But into the second the High Priest went alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people. You see that the types were already laid down beforehand? For, lest they should say, how is there [but] one sacrifice? he shows that this was so from the beginning, since at least the more holy and the awful [sacrifice] was [but] one. And how did the High Priest offer once for all? Thus were they wont [to do] from the beginning, for then also (he says) the High Priest offered once for all.

And well said he, not without blood. (Not indeed without blood, yet not this blood, for the business was not so great.) He signifies that there shall be a sacrifice, not consumed by fire, but rather distinguished by blood. For inasmuch as he called the Cross a sacrifice, though it had neither fire, nor logs, nor was offered many times, but had been offered in blood once for all; he shows that the ancient sacrifice also was of this kind, was offered once for all in blood.

Which he offers for himself; again, for himself; and for the errors of the people. He said not sins; but errors, that they might not be high-minded. For even if you have not sinned intentionally, yet unintentionally you have erred, and from this no man is pure.

And everywhere [he adds] the for himself, showing that Christ is much greater. For if He be separated from our sins, how did He offer for Himself? Why then did you say these things (one says)? Because this is [a mark] of One that is superior.

Hebrews 9:8

3. Thus far there is no speculation. But from this point he philosophizes and says, Hebrews 9:8 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the Holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing. For this cause (he says) have these things been thus ordained, that we might learn that the Holy of Holies, that is, Heaven, is as yet inaccessible. Let us not then think (he says) that because we do not enter them, they have no existence: inasmuch as neither did we enter the Most Holy [place].

Hebrews 9:9

Which (he says) was established as a figure for the time then present. What does he mean by the time present? That before the coming of Christ: For after the coming of Christ, it is no longer a time present: For how [could it be], having arrived, and being ended?

There is too something else which he indicates, when he says this, which [was] a figure for the time then present, that is, became the Type. In which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience. You see now what is [the meaning of] The Law made nothing perfect, Hebrews 7:19, and If that first [covenant] had been faultless. Hebrews 8:7 How? As pertaining to the conscience. For the sacrifices did not put away the defilement from the soul, but still were concerned with the body: after the law of a carnal commandment. Hebrews 7:16 For certainly they could not put away adultery, nor murder, nor sacrilege. Do you see? You have eaten this, You have not eaten that, which are matters of indifference. [Which stood] only in meats and drinks, and various washings. You have drunk this, he says: and yet nothing has been ordained concerning drink, but he said this, treating them as trifles.

Hebrews 9:10

And [in] various washings, and carnal ordinances imposed on them until the time of reformation. For this is the righteousness of the flesh. Here he depreciates the sacrifices, showing that they had no efficacy, and that they existed till the time of reformation, that is, they waited for the time that reforms all things.

Hebrews 9:11

4. But Christ having come an High Priest of good things that have come by a greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands. Here he means the flesh. And well did he say, greater and more perfect, since God The Word and all the power of The Spirit dwells therein; For God gives not the Spirit by measure [unto Him]. John 3:34 And more perfect, as being both unblamable, and setting right greater things.

That is, not of this creation. See how [it was] greater. For it would not have been of the Spirit Matthew 1:20, if man had constructed it. Nor yet is it of this creation; that is, not of these created things, but spiritual, of the Holy Ghost.

Do you see how he calls the body tabernacle and veil and heaven. By a greater and more perfect tabernacle. Through the veil, that is, His flesh. Hebrews 10:20 And again, into that within the veil. Hebrews 6:19 And again, entering into the Holy of Holies, to appear before the face of God. Hebrews 9:24 Why then does he this? According as one thing or a different one is signified. I mean for instance, the Heaven is a veil, for as a veil it walls off the Holy of Holies; the flesh [is a veil] hiding the Godhead; and the tabernacle likewise holding the Godhead. Again, Heaven [is] a tabernacle: for the Priest is there within.

But Christ (he says) having come an High Priest : he did not say, become, but having come, that is, having come for this very purpose, not having been successor to another. He did not come first and then become [High Priest], but came and became at the same time. And he did not say having come an High Priest of things which are sacrificed, but of good things that have come, as if his discourse had not power to put the whole before us.

Hebrews 9:12

Neither by the blood, he says, of goats and calves (All things are changed) but by His own Blood (he says) He entered in once for all into the Holy Place. See thus he called Heaven. Once for all (he says) He entered into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption. And this [expression] having obtained, was [expressive] of things very difficult, and that are beyond expectation, how by one entering in, He obtained everlasting redemption.

Hebrews 9:13-14

5. Next [comes] that which is calculated to persuade.

For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies to the purifying of the flesh; how much more shall the Blood of Christ, who through the Holy Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God.

For (he says) if the blood of bulls is able to purify the flesh, much rather shall the Blood of Christ wipe away the defilement of the soul. For that you may not suppose when you hear [the word] sanctifies, that it is some great thing, he marks out and shows the difference between each of these purifyings, and how the one of them is high and the other low. And says it is [so] with good reason, since that is the blood of bulls, and this the Blood of Christ.

Nor was he content with the name, but he sets forth also the manner of the offering. Who (he says) through the Holy Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, that is, the victim was without blemish, pure from sins. For this is [the meaning of] through the Holy Spirit, not through fire, nor through any other things.

Shall purge your conscience (he says) from dead works. And well said he from dead works; if any man touched a dead body, he was polluted; and here, if any man touch a dead work, he is defiled through his conscience. To serve (he says) the Living and true God. Here he declares that it is not [possible] while one has dead works to serve the Living and true God, for they are both dead and false; and with good reason [he says this].

6. Let no man then enter in here with dead works. For if it was not fit that one should enter in who had touched a dead body, much more one that has dead works: for this is the most grievous pollution. And dead works are, all which have not life, which breathe forth an ill odor. For as a dead body is useful to none of the senses, but is even annoying to those who come near it, so sin also at once strikes the reasoning faculty, and does not allow the understanding itself to be calm, but disturbs and troubles it.

And it is said too that a plague at its very commencement corrupts the living bodies; such also is sin. It differs in nothing from a plague, not [indeed] corrupting the air first, and then the bodies, but darting at once into the soul. Do you see not how persons affected with the plague, are inflamed: how they writhe about, how they are full of an ill scent, how disfigured are their countenances: how wholly unclean they are? Such are they also that sin, though they see it not. For, tell me, is not he who is possessed by the desire of riches or carnal lust, worse than any one that is in a fever? Is he not more unclean than all these, when he does and submits to all shameless things?

7. For what is baser than a man who is in love with money? Whatever things women that are harlots or on the stage refuse not to do neither does he [refuse]. Rather it is likely that they would refuse [to do] a thing, rather than he. He even submits to do things fit for slaves, flattering those whom he ought not; again he is overbearing where he ought not to be, being inconsistent in every respect. He will sit by flattering wicked people, and oftentimes depraved old men, that are of much poorer and meaner condition than himself; and will be insolent and overbearing to others that are good and in all respects virtuous. You see in both respects the baseness, the shamelessness: he is both humble beyond measure, and boastful.

Harlots however stand in front of their house, and the charge against them is that they sell their body for money: yet, one may say, poverty and hunger compel them (although at the most this is no sufficient excuse: for they might gain a livelihood by work). But the covetous man stands, not before his house, but before the midst of the city, making over to the devil not his body but his soul; so that he [the devil] is in his company, and goes in unto him, as verily to a harlot: and having satisfied all his lusts departs; and all the city sees it, not two or three persons only.

And this again is the peculiarity of harlots, that they are his who gives the gold. Even if he be a slave or a gladiator, or any person whatever, yet if he offers their hire, they receive him. But the free, even should they be more noble than all, they do not accept without the money. These men also do the same. They turn away right thoughts when they bring no money; but they associate with the abominable, and actually with those that fight with wild beasts, for the sake of the gold, and associate with them shamelessly and destroy the beauty of the soul. For as those women are naturally of odious appearance and black, and awkward and gross, and formless and ill-shaped, and in all respects disgusting, such do the souls of these men become, not able to conceal their deformity by their outward paintings. For when the ill look is extreme, whatever they may devise, they cannot succeed in their feigning.

For that shamelessness makes harlots, hear the prophet saying, You were shameless towards all; you had a harlot's countenance. Jeremiah 3:3 This may be said to the covetous also: You were shameless towards all, not towards these or those, but towards all. How? Such an one respects neither father, nor son, nor wife, nor friend, nor brother, nor benefactor, nor absolutely any one. And why do I say friend, and brother, and father? He respects not God Himself, but all [we believe] seems to him a fable; and he laughs, intoxicated by his great lust, and not even admitting into his ears any of the things which might profit him.

But O! Their absurdity! And then what things they say! Woe to you, O Mammon, and to him that has you not. At this I am torn to pieces with indignation: for woe to those who say these things, though they say them in jest. For tell me, has not God uttered such a threat as this, saying, You cannot serve two masters? Matthew 6:24 And do you set at nought the threat? Does not Paul say that it is Idolatry, and does he not call the covetous man an Idolater? Ephesians 5:5

8. And you stand laughing, raising a laugh after the manner of women of the world who are on the stage. This has overthrown, this has cast down everything. Our affairs, both our business and our politeness, are turned into laughing; there is nothing steady, nothing grave. I say not these things to men of the world only; but I know those whom I am hinting at. For the Church has been filled with laughter. Whatever clever thing one may say, immediately there is laughter among those present: and the marvelous thing is that many do not leave off laughing even during the very time of the prayer.

Everywhere the devil leads the dance, he has entered into all, is master of all. Christ is dishonored, is thrust aside; the Church is made no account of. Do ye not hear Paul saying, Let filthiness and foolish talking and jesting Ephesians 5:4 be put away from you? He places jesting along with filthiness, and do you laugh? What is foolish talking? That which has nothing profitable. And do you, a solitary, laugh at all and relax your countenance? thou that art crucified? thou that art a mourner? Tell me, do you laugh? Where do you hear of Christ doing this? Nowhere: but that He was sad indeed oftentimes. For even when He looked on Jerusalem, He wept; and when He thought on the Traitor He was troubled; and when He was about to raise Lazarus, He wept; and do you laugh? If he who grieves not over the sins of others deserves to be accused, of what consideration will he be worthy, who is without sorrow for his own sins, yea laughs at them? This is the season of grief and tribulation, of bruising and bringing matter [the body], of conflicts and sweatings, and do you laugh? Do you not see how Sarah was rebuked? Do you not hear Christ saying, Woe to them that laugh, for they shall weep? Luke 6:25 Thou chantest these things every day, for, tell me, what do you say? I have laughed? By no means; but what? I labored in my groaning. Psalm 6:6

But perchance there are some persons so dissolute and silly as even during this very rebuke to laugh, because forsooth we thus discourse about laughter. For indeed such is their derangement, such their madness, that it does not feel the rebuke.

The Priest of God is Standing, offering up the prayer of all: and are you laughing, having no fears? And while he is offering up the prayers in trembling for you, do you despise all? Do you not hear the Scripture saying, Woe, you despisers! cf. Acts 13:41 from Habakkuk 1:5; do you not shudder? Do you not humble yourself? Even when you enter a royal palace, you order yourself in dress, and look, and gait, and all other respects: and here where there is the true Palace, and things like those of heaven, do you laugh? You indeed, I know, see [them] not, but hear thou that there are angels present everywhere, and in the house of God especially they stand by the King, and all is filled by those incorporeal Powers.

This my discourse is addressed to women also, who in the presence of their husbands indeed do not dare readily to do this, and even if they do it, it is not at all times, but during a season of relaxation, but here they do it always. Tell me, O woman, do you cover your head and laugh, sitting in the Church? Did you come in here to make confession of sins, to fall down before God, to entreat and to supplicate for the transgressions you have wretchedly committed, and do you do this with laughter? How then will you be able to propitiate Him?

9. But (one says) what harm is there in laughter? There is no harm in laughter; the harm is when it is beyond measure, and out of season. Laughter has been implanted in us, that when we see our friends after a long time, we may laugh; that when we see any persons downcast and fearful, we may relieve them by our smile; not that we should burst out violently and be always laughing. Laughter has been implanted in our soul, that the soul may sometimes be refreshed, not that it may be quite relaxed. For carnal desire also is implanted in us, and yet it is not by any means necessary that because it is implanted in us, therefore we should use it, or use it immoderately: but we should hold it in subjection, and not say, Because it is implanted in us, let us use it.

Serve God with tears, that you may be able to wash away your sins. I know that many mock us, saying, Tears directly. Therefore it is a time for tears. I know also that they are disgusted, who say, Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die. 1 Corinthians 15:32 Vanity of vanities, all is vanity. Ecclesiastes 1:2 It is not I that say it, but he who had had the experience of all things says thus: I built for me houses, I planted vineyards, I made me pools of water, [I had] men servants and women servants. Ecclesiastes 2:4-7 And what then after all these things? Vanity of vanities, all is vanity. Ecclesiastes 12:8

Let us mourn therefore, beloved, let us mourn in order that we may laugh indeed, that we may rejoice indeed in the time of unmixed joy. For with this joy [here] grief is altogether mingled: and never is it possible to find it pure. But that is simple and undeceiving joy: it has nothing treacherous, nor any admixture. In that joy let us delight ourselves; that let us pursue after. And it is not possible to obtain this in any other way, than by choosing here not what is pleasant, but what is profitable, and being willing to be afflicted a little, and bearing all things with thanksgiving. For thus we shall be able to attain even to the Kingdom of Heaven, of which may we all be counted worthy, in Christ Jesus our Lord, with whom to the Father be glory, together with the Holy Ghost, now and for ever and world without end. Amen.

 

Hebrews 9:15-18

And for this cause He is the Mediator of the New Testament, that by means of death for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first Testament, they which are called might receive the promise of an eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead, otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator lives. Whereupon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood.

1. It was probable that many of those who were more weakly would especially distrust the promises of Christ because He had died. Paul accordingly out of a superabundance introduced this illustration, deriving it from common custom. Of what kind is it? He says, indeed, on this very account we ought to be of good courage. On what account? Because testaments are established and obtain their force when those who have made them are not living, but dead. And for this cause, he says, He is the Mediator of the New Testament. A Testament is made towards the last day, [the day] of death.

And a testament is of this character: It makes some heirs, and some disinherited. So in this case also: I will that where I am, Christ says, they also may be. John 17:24 And again of the disinherited, hear Him saying, I pray not for all, but for them that believe in Me through their word. John 17:20 Again, a testament has relation both to the testator, and to the legatees; so that they have some things to receive, and some to do. So also in this case. For after having made promises innumerable, He demands also something from them, saying, a new commandment I give unto you. John 13:34 Again, a testament ought to have witnesses. Hear Him again saying, I am one that bear witness of Myself, and He that sent Me bears witness of Me. John 8:18 And again, He shall testify of Me John 15:26, speaking of the Comforter. The twelve Apostles too He sent, saying, Bear ye witness before God.

2. And for this cause (he says) He is the Mediator of the New Testament. What is a Mediator? A mediator is not lord of the thing of which he is mediator, but the thing belongs to one person, and the mediator is another: as for instance, the mediator of a marriage is not the bridegroom, but one who aids him who is about to be married. So then also here: The Son became Mediator between the Father and us. The Father willed not to leave us this inheritance, but was angry against us, and was displeased [with us] as being estranged [from Him]; He accordingly became Mediator between us and Him, and prevailed with Him.

And what then? How did He become Mediator? He brought words from [Him] and brought [them to us], conveying over what came from the Father to us, and adding His own death thereto. We had offended: we ought to have died: He died for us and made us worthy of the Testament. By this is the Testament secure, in that henceforward it is not made for the unworthy. At the beginning indeed, He made His dispositions as a father for sons; but after we had become unworthy, there was no longer need of a testament, but of punishment.

Why then (he would say) do you think upon the law? For it placed us in a condition of so great sin, that we could never have been saved, if our Lord had not died for us; the law would not have had power, for it is weak.

3. And he established this no longer from common custom only, but also from what happened under the old [Testament]: which especially influenced them. There was no one who died there: how then could that [Testament] be firm? In the same way (he says). How? For blood was there also, as there is blood here. And if it was not the blood of the Christ, do not be surprised; for it was a type. Whereupon, he says, neither was the first [Testament] dedicated without blood.

What is was dedicated? Was confirmed, was ratified. The word whereupon means for this cause. It was needful that the symbol of the Testament should be also that of death.

Hebrews 9:19-20

For why (tell me) is the book of the testament sprinkled? For (he says) when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book itself and all the people, saying, This is the blood of the testament, which God has enjoined unto you. Tell me then why is the book of the testament sprinkled, and also the people, except on account of the precious blood, figured from the first? Why with hyssop? It is close and retentive. And why the water? It shows forth also the cleansing by water. And why the wool? This also [was used], that the blood might be retained. In this place blood and water show forth the same thing, for baptism is His passion.

Hebrews 9:21-22

4. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood, and without shedding of blood is no remission. Why the almost? Why did he qualify it? Because those [ordinances] were not a perfect purification, nor a perfect remission, but half-complete and in a very small degree. But in this case He says, This is the blood of the New Testament, which is shed for you, for the remission of sins. Matthew 26:28

Where then is the book? He purified their minds. They themselves then were the books of the New Testament. But where are the vessels of the ministry? They are themselves. And where is the tabernacle? Again, they are; for I will dwell in them, He says, and walk in them. 2 Corinthians 6:16

5. But they were not sprinkled with scarlet wool, nor yet with hyssop. Why was this? Because the cleansing was not bodily but spiritual, and the blood was spiritual. How? It flowed not from the body of irrational animals, but from the Body prepared by the Spirit. With this blood not Moses but Christ sprinkled us, through the word which was spoken; This is the blood of the New Testament, for the remission of sins. This word, instead of hyssop, having been dipped in the blood, sprinkles all. And there indeed the body was cleansed outwardly, for the purifying was bodily; but here, since the purifying is spiritual, it enters into the soul, and cleanses it, not being simply sprinkled over, but gushing forth in our souls. The initiated understand what is said. And in their case indeed one sprinkled just the surface; but he who was sprinkled washed it off again; for surely he did not go about continually stained with blood. But in the case of the soul it is not so, but the blood is mixed with its very substance, making it vigorous and pure, and leading it to the very unapproachable beauty.

6. Henceforward then he shows that His death is the cause not only of confirmation, but also of purification. For inasmuch as death was thought to be an odious thing, and especially that of the cross, he says that it purified, even a precious purification, and in regard to greater things. Therefore the sacrifices preceded, because of this blood. Therefore the lambs; everything was for this cause.

Hebrews 9:23

It was therefore necessary that the Patterns (he says) of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.

And how are they patterns of things in the heavens? And what does he mean now by the things in the heavens? Is it Heaven? Or is it the Angels? None of these, but what is ours. It follows then that our things are in Heaven, and heavenly things are ours, even though they be accomplished on earth; since although angels are on earth, yet they are called Heavenly. And the Cherubim appeared on earth, but yet are heavenly. And why do I say appeared? Nay rather they dwell on earth, as indeed in Paradise: but this is nothing; for they are heavenly. And, Our conversation is in Heaven Philippians 3:20, and yet we live here.

But these are the heavenly things, that is, the philosophy which exists among us; those who have been called thereto.

With better sacrifices than these. What is better is better than something [else] that is good. Therefore the patterns also of things in the heavens have become good; for not even the patterns were evil: else the things whereof they are patterns would also have been evil.

7. If then we are heavenly, and have obtained such a sacrifice, let us fear. Let us no longer continue on the earth; for even now it is possible for him that wishes it, not to be on the earth. For to be and not to be on the earth is the effect of moral disposition and choice. For instance; God is said to be in Heaven. Wherefore? Not because He is confined by space, far from it, nor as having left the earth destitute of His presence, but by His relation to and intimacy with the Angels. If then we also are near to God, we are in Heaven. For what care I about Heaven when I see the Lord of Heaven, when I myself have become a Heaven? For, He says, We will come, I and the Father, and will make our abode with him. John 14:23

Let us then make our soul a Heaven. The heaven is naturally bright; for not even in a storm does it become black, for it does not itself change its appearance, but the clouds run together and cover it. Heaven has the Sun; we also have the Sun of Righteousness. I said it is possible to become a Heaven; and I see that it is possible to become even better than Heaven. How? When we have the Lord of the Sun. Heaven is throughout pure and without spot; it changes not either in a storm or in the night. Neither let us then be so influenced either by tribulations or by the wiles of the devil Ephesians 6:11, but let us continue spotless and pure. Heaven is high and far from the earth. Let us also effect this [as regards ourselves]; let us withdraw ourselves from the earth, and exalt ourselves to that height, and remove ourselves far from the earth. Heaven is higher than the rains and the storms, and is reached by none of them. This we also can do, if we will.

It does appear to be, but is not really so affected. Neither then let us be affected, even if we appear to be so. For as in a storm, most men know not the beauty of [heaven,] but think that it is changed, while philosophers know that it is not affected at all, so with regard to ourselves also in afflictions; most men think that we are changed with them, and that affliction has touched our very heart, but philosophers know that it has not touched us.

8. Let us then become heaven, let us mount up to that height, and so we shall see men differing nothing from ants. I do not speak of the poor only, nor the many, but even if there be a general there, even if the emperor be there, we shall not distinguish the emperor, nor the private person. We shall not know what is gold, or what is silver, or what is silken or purple raiment: we shall see all things as if they were flies, if we be seated in that height. There is no tumult there, no disturbance, nor clamor.

And how is it possible (one says) for him who walks on the earth, to be raised up to that height? I do not tell it you in words, but I show you in fact those who have attained to that height. Who then are they?

I mean such as Paul, who being on earth, spent their lives in heaven. But why do I say in heaven? They were higher than the Heaven, yea than the other heaven, and mounted up to God Himself. For, who (he says) shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Romans 8:35 And again, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. 2 Corinthians 4:18 Do you see that he did not even see the things here? But to show you that he was higher than the heavens, hear him saying himself, For I am persuaded that neither death, or life, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of Christ. Romans 8:38-39

Do you see how thought, hurrying past all things, made him higher not than this creation only, not than these heavens, but even [than any other also] if any other there were? Have you seen the elevation of his mind? Have you seen what the tent-maker became, because he had the will, he who had spent his whole life in the market-place?

9. For there is no hindrance, no not any, but that we may rise above all men, if we have the will. For if we are so successful in arts that are beyond the reach of the generality, much more in that which does not require so great labor.

For, tell me, what is more difficult than to walk along a tight rope, as if on level ground, and when walking on high to dress and undress, as if sitting on a couch? Does not the performance seem to us to be so frightful, that we are not even willing to look at it, but are terrified and tremble at the very sight? And tell me, what is more difficult than to hold a pole upon your face, and when you have put up a child upon it, to perform innumerable feats and delight the spectators? And what is more difficult than to play at ball with swords? And tell me what is harder than thoroughly to search out the bottom of the sea? And one might mention innumerable other arts.

But easier than all these, if we have the will, is virtue, and the going up into Heaven. For here it is only necessary to have the will, and all [the rest] follows. For we may not say, I am unable, neither accuse the Creator. For if He made us unable, and then commands, it is an accusation against Himself.

10. How is it then (some one says) that many are not able? How is it then that many are not willing? For, if they be willing, all will be able. Therefore also Paul says, I would that all men were even as I myself 1 Corinthians 7:7, since he knew that all were able to be as himself. For he would not have said this, if it had been impossible. Do you wish to become [such]? Only lay hold on the beginning.

Tell me now, in the case of any arts, when we wish to attain them, are we content with wishing, or do we also engage with the things themselves? As for instance, one wishes to become a pilot; he does not say, I wish, and content himself with that, but he also puts his hand to the work. He wishes to become a merchant; he does not merely say, I wish, but he also puts his hand to the work. Again he wishes to travel abroad, and he does not say, I wish, but he puts his hand to the work. In everything then, wishing alone is not sufficient, but work must also be added; and when you wish to mount up to heaven, do you merely say, I wish?

How then (he says) did you say that willing is sufficient? [I meant] willing joined with deeds, the laying hold on the thing itself, the laboring. For we have God working with us, and acting with us. Only let us make our choice, only let us apply ourselves to the matter as to work, only let us think earnestly about it, only let us lay it to heart, and all follows. But if we sleep on, and as we snore expect to enter into heaven, how shall we be able to obtain the heavenly inheritance?

Let us therefore be willing, I exhort you, let us be willing. Why do we carry on all our traffic with reference to the present life, which tomorrow we shall leave? Let us choose then that Virtue which will suffice us through all eternity: wherein we shall be continually, and shall enjoy the everlasting good things; which may we all attain, in Christ Jesus our Lord, with whom to the Father together with the Holy Ghost be glory, power, honor, now and for ever and world without end. Amen.

 

Hebrews 9:24-26

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 enters 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 has He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.

1. The Jews greatly prided themselves on the temple and the tabernacle. Wherefore they said, The temple of the Lord, The temple of the Lord, The temple of the Lord. Jeremiah 7:4 For nowhere else in the earth was such a temple constructed as this, either for costliness, or beauty, or anything else. For God who ordained it, commanded that it should be made with great magnificence, because they also were more attracted and urged on by material things. For it had bricks of gold in the walls; and any one who wishes may learn this in the second [book] of Kings, and in Ezekiel, and how many talents of gold were then expended.

But the second [temple] was a more glorious building, both on account of its beauty, and in all other respects. Nor was it reverenced for this reason only, but also from its being One. For they were wont to resort there from the uttermost parts of the earth, whether from Babylon or from Ethiopia. And Luke shows this when he says in the Acts: There were dwelling there Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, in Judea and Cappadocia, in Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, in Egypt and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene. Acts 2:5-10 They then who lived in all parts of the world assembled there, and the fame of the temple was great.

What then does Paul do? What [he did] in regard to the sacrifices, that also he does here. For as there he set against [them] the death of Christ, so here also he sets the whole heaven against the temple.

2. And not by this alone did he point out the difference, but also by adding that The Priest is nearer to God: for he says, to appear in the presence of God. So that he made the matter august, not only by the [consideration of] heaven, but also by [that of Christ's] entering in [there]. For not merely through symbols as here, but He sees God Himself there.

Do you see that condescension through the lowly things have been said throughout? Why do you then any longer wonder that He intercedes there, where He places Himself as a High Priest? Nor yet, that He should offer Himself often, as the High Priest.

For Christ is not entered into the Holy Places made with hands (he says) which are the figures of the True. (These then are true; and those are figures, for the temple too has been so arranged, as the Heaven of Heavens.)

What do you say? He who is everywhere present, and who fills all things, does not He appear unless He enter into Heaven? You see that all these things pertain to the flesh.

To appear, he says, in the presence of God for us. What is for us? He went up (he means) with a sacrifice which had power to propitiate the Father. Wherefore (tell me)? Was He an enemy? The angels were enemies, He was not an enemy. For that the Angels were enemies, hear what he says, He made peace as to things on earth and things in Heaven. Colossians 1:20 So that He also entered into Heaven, now to appear in the presence of God for us. He now appears, but for us.

3. Nor yet that He should offer Himself often, as the High Priest enters into the Holy place every year with blood of others. Seest Thou how many are the differences? The often for the once; the blood of others, for His own. Great is the distance. He is Himself then both victim and Priest and sacrifice. For if it had not been so, and it had been necessary to offer many sacrifices, He must have been many times crucified. For then, he says, He must often have suffered since the foundation of the world.

In this place he has also veiled over something. But now once more in the end of the world. Why at the end of the world? After the many sins. If therefore, it had taken place at the beginning, then no one would have believed; and He must not die a second time, all would have been useless. But since later, there were many transgressions, with reason He then appeared: which he expresses in another place also, Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. But now once in the end of the world, has He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. Romans 5:20

Hebrews 9:27

4. Hebrews 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this, the Judgment. He next says also why He died once [only]: because He became a ransom by one death. It had been appointed (he says) unto men once to die. This then is [the meaning of] He died once, for all. (What then? Do we no longer die that death? We do indeed die, but we do not continue in it: which is not to die at all. For the tyranny of death, and death indeed, is when he who dies is never more allowed to return to life. But when after dying is living, and that a better life, this is not death, but sleep.) Since then death was to have possession of all, therefore He died that He might deliver us.

Hebrews 9:28

So Christ was once offered. By whom offered? Evidently by Himself. Here he says that He is not Priest only, but Victim also, and what is sacrificed. On this account are [the words] was offered. Was once offered (he says) to bear the sins of many. Why of many, and not of all? Because not all believed. For He died indeed for all, that is His part: for that death was a counterbalance against the destruction of all men. But He did not bear the sins of all men, because they were not willing.

And what is [the meaning of] He bare the sins? Just as in the Oblation we bear up our sins and say, Whether we have sinned voluntarily or involuntarily, do Thou forgive, that is, we make mention of them first, and then ask for their forgiveness. So also was it done here. Where has Christ done this? Hear Himself saying, And for their sakes I sanctify Myself. John 17:19 Lo! He bore the sins. He took them from men, and bore them to the Father; not that He might determine anything against them [mankind], but that He might forgive them.

Unto them that look for Him shall He appear (he says) the second time without sin unto salvation. What is without sin? It is as much as to say, He sins not. For neither did He die as owing the debt of death, nor yet because of sin. But how shall He appear? To punish, you say. He did not however say this, but what was cheering; shall He appear unto them that look for Him, without sin unto salvation. So that for the time to come they no longer need sacrifices to save themselves, but to do this by deeds.