underneath the blood
What does it mean to be 'underneath the blood' in Christian faith? Does it imply a sense of guilt, shame, or condemnation? Or does it suggest a state of forgiveness, freedom, or redemption? How can we understand this phrase in light of the biblical teachings and the Christian tradition?
The phrase 'underneath the blood' is derived from the concept of atonement, which means the reconciliation of God and humanity through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the Old Testament, God established a system of sacrifices to deal with the problem of sin and its consequences. The blood of animals was shed as a substitute for the punishment that sinners deserved. The blood also symbolized the life that was given up for the sake of others. As Leviticus 17:11 says, "For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life." However, the blood of animals was not sufficient to remove sin completely or permanently. It only covered sin temporarily and symbolically.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfilled and surpassed the Old Testament sacrificial system by offering himself as the perfect and final sacrifice for sin. His blood was shed on the cross as a payment for the sins of the whole world. His blood also signified his life that was poured out for the sake of others. As Hebrews 9:22 says, "And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission."³ However, unlike the blood of animals, the blood of Jesus was effective and eternal in cleansing sin completely and permanently. It not only covered sin, but also washed it away.
Therefore, being 'underneath the blood' in Christian faith means being under the protection and provision of Jesus' sacrifice. It means trusting in his power, obeying his commands, and relying on his grace. It means living in a relationship with him that is marked by love, joy, and peace. It means finding our identity, purpose, and hope in him alone.
Some practical implications of being 'underneath the blood' are:
We are forgiven and justified before God. As 1 John 1:7 says, "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin."³ This means that God no longer holds our sins against us or condemns us for them. He declares us righteous and acceptable in his sight because of what Jesus has done for us.
We are cleansed and sanctified by God. As Hebrews 9:14 says, "How much more, then, will **the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!"¹ This means that God not only removes our guilt and shame, but also transforms our hearts and minds to desire and do what pleases him. He empowers us to live holy and fruitful lives for his glory.
- We are redeemed and liberated by God. As 1 Peter 1:18-19 says, "For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect."This means that God not only rescues us from the power and penalty of sin, but also delivers us from its presence and influence. He frees us from bondage to Satan, self, and the world.
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In summary, being 'underneath the blood' in Christian faith means being under the grace and mercy of God. It means experiencing his forgiveness, cleansing, and redemption through faith in Jesus Christ. It means enjoying his presence, favor, and blessing in every aspect of our lives.
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