And behold the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom, and the earth did quake and the rocks rent. Matthew 27:51
Rabinnical literature from the time of Christ indicates that the veil in the temple was about as thick as a man’s hand is wide, and that it took 300 priests to handle it. This massive fabric was woven on a loom that took 82 young women to operate, using 72 cords, each with 24 strands. A new veil was installed every year, meaning that the veil would always be strong and fresh. If this description is accurate – and it probably is – we can understand the common saying of the time that horses fastened to either side of the veil would be unable to cause it to tear. Certainly the priests would be unable to tear it. But the veil was torn when the Lord Jersus died on Calvary’s cross, and the reason is significant to Christians today.
The purpose of the veil was to restrict access to the Holy of Holies, the very special compartment in the temple where the blood of the offering made on the Day of Atonement was to be sprinkled. Only the high priest, and only on the Day of Atonement, could enter the Holy of Holies, which is where the presence of God resided. Technically, only one man knew what the interior of that special compartment looked like, and it was barred to all the other priests, and anyone else who wished to approach. The veil was the obstacle that imposed this great restriction. But with the veil torn in two, any priest, or anyone else who approached, could see within, and go within. The rending of that veil marked the great transition between the sacrifices of the Old Testament, and the one great Sacrifice of the New Testament. The rending of the veil marks the opening of access to the presence of God to any and all who will approach.
Each day – and as often during the day as desired – each Christian can draw near and enter into the very presence of God. Every week, each Assembly of God’s people can draw near and bring thank offerings into the Holy of Holies. Because of the rent veil, we can be assured that God admits us into His presence, and that the Old Testament restrictions are lifted. No longer is the access to His presence for making atonement, because the offering of Jesus Christ once for all eliminates that sacrifice. Access to God’s presence is now available for the bringing of worship, whether individually or collectively. This access is also available for prayer, Scripture study, meditation, and praise. The reality of the rent veil provides the environment for Christians to appreciate and commune with our God.
All limitations are gone in terms of our access to God. How have you taken advantage of the rent veil today? -Jim MacIntosh