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"Sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh..."

Text: Hebrews 9:13

HOW WAS “CLEANSING” EFFECTED IN THE OLD PRIESTLY SYSTEM?

One of the main concerns of the religious system that God gave to Israel had to do with the cleansing of sins. God being holy and just could not condone sin. He provided atonement for the sins of man.

“For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer,
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh.”
Hebrews 9:13

1. The blood of bulls and goats

a) This is a reference to the “sin offering”.

b) This offering represents the following:-

i) Confession of sin.

ii) Atonement for sin through the sacrifice of “bulls and goats”.

iii) Acceptance by God (when there is genuine repentance).

iv) Forgiveness is pronounced.

2. Ashes of a heifer (Cf. Numbers 19)

a) This was a purification ritual.

b) An unblemished red heifer is offered up as a special offering.

c) The ashes were stored and kept in a clean place outside the camp.

d) The ashes were used with the water of purification.

3. Sprinkling the unclean

a) The unclean would be sprinkled.

b) The unclean is then pronounced “clean” after the purification ceremony.

4. Sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh

The whole purpose of this ritual was so that the individual may be “sanctified” as far as “the flesh” is concerned. This ritual however does nothing for the “conscience” of the sinner. It is unable to address this issue.