Read Matthew 27:50-66 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. How did the curtain (or veil) in the temple tear?
2. Read Exodus 26:31-33 + Leviticus 16:2. What was the purpose of the curtain?
3. Why did the religious leaders want Jesus’ tomb guarded?
Reflect
When Jesus died, a large woven piece of fabric was torn from top to bottom. This was the veil or curtain that God instructed Moses to hang in His dwelling place as a separation. The only person allowed behind the curtain was the high priest, and it could only be on one day of the year, the Day of Atonement.
Sin separates us from God. Before Jesus, God’s presence was behind the curtain in the temple – but He didn’t want us to stay separated from Him. He sent His Son Jesus to atone for our sins, to pay the penalty that we deserved for our sin. He gave His life for us, and when He did, the curtain of separation tore.
On the Day of Atonement, the high priest entered the Most Holy Place, behind the curtain, to offer sacrifices to cover the people’s sins, but it was incomplete. It had to be repeated every year. When Jesus died on the cross, He offered Himself as the perfect and complete sacrifice for all sin. There’s nothing more to separate you from God when you put your faith in Him.
Respond
What is your typical reaction to approaching God? Do you view Him as distant, like behind a curtain, or as nearby? How does today’s reading change or enhance that view? What have you learned about His character this week, and who can you share that with?
This year, we're creating an online-only Good Friday experience. We want to take time to reflect on the magnitude of Jesus's sacrifice on the cross. There will be elements of worship and teaching, and the experience will culminate with Pastor Aaron leading us in a time of communion.
Join us today, Friday, March 29, at 6, 7, and 8 PM at traderspoint.tv, YouTube, or Facebook Live. Our hope is that this online experience deepens the awe and wonder of the miracle of Easter.