Such a Sacrifice
Good Friday
April 7, 2023
Rev. Dr. Gabe Sylvia
On Good Friday we reflect on the covenantal framework—especially the covenant of works—and see Jesus as the perfect high priest and sacrifice whose priestly ministry silences the condemning demands of the law, quenches God's wrath, descended into hell on our behalf, and secures deliverance for believers as we await Easter.
Summary
This sermon, part of a brief series in Hebrews, uses Good Friday to emphasize the doctrine of covenant as the scaffolding of our relationship with God and the essential need for a mediator and priest. Jesus is presented as the fitting high priest and perfect sacrifice whose blood answers the demands of the covenant of works, extinguishing God’s condemning wrath. His priestly ministry brings an end to the old law and priesthood, silencing the covenant’s power to condemn, and even in his descent to hell he fulfills what the covenant required, delivering believers at judgment. The message calls the church to remember this work of Christ now and to look forward to the joy of Easter.
Key Points
- Context: part of a Hebrews series leading into Easter and the Lord's Day
- Covenants are central to our relationship with God; priests mediate those covenants
- The covenant of works demands a suitable, perfect priest and sacrifice
- Jesus is the great servant and fitting high priest whose perfection makes him an acceptable advocate before the Father
- Christ’s sacrificial blood quenches God’s condemning wrath and serves as the fitting sacrifice
- The high priestly ministry of Jesus silences the covenant of works and brings an end to the old law and its priesthood
- Jesus’ descent to hell fulfilled the covenant’s demand and his priesthood delivers believers at judgment
- Application: remember Good Friday’s reality and look forward to the hope of Easter
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