“With a loud cry, Jesus took his last breath. The temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom.” (Mark 15:37-38)
Solomon’s temple was 30 cubits high (1 Kings 6:2), but Herod had increased the height to 40 cubits, that means this curtain or veil was somewhere near 60 feet high. An early Jewish tradition says that the veil was about four inches thick, so, this act of tearing this huge veil from top to bottom was indeed a miracle but why was it done? First, let’s remember the purpose of the temple:
“When Solomon had finished the temple of the LORD…the LORD appeared to him at night and said: “I have heard your prayer and have CHOSEN THIS PLACE FOR MYSELF as a temple for sacrifices.” (2 Chron. 7:11-12)
So, God’s presence was behind the veil and the high priest was the only one with access to Him! This is not what God wanted, it was His people’s choice! As God was getting ready to come down and speak to His people…
“When the people saw the thunder and lightning…they trembled with fear…and said to Moses, “Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But DO NOT HAVE GOD SPEAK TO US OR WE WILL DIE.” (Exodus 20:18-19)
later we see that “…the Lords anger rose against Israel, because they did not believe in God and did not trust his saving power.” (Psalms 78:21-22)
God chose to sacrifice His one and only son as an offering worthy enough to cleanse us from sin and then He tore the veil so anyone of us could have access to Him, that is how much He loves us!!!
“Let us therefore COME BOLDLY unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” (Heb. 4:16)
Come boldly with me into God’s presence…Bill Stockham