When everything had been arranged like this, the priests entered regularly(A) into the outer room to carry on their ministry. But only the high priest entered(B) the inner room,(C) and that only once a year,(D) and never without blood,(E) which he offered for himself(F) and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance.(G) The Holy Spirit was showing(H) by this that the way(I) into the Most Holy Place had not yet been disclosed as long as the first tabernacle was still functioning. This is an illustration(J) for the present time, indicating that the gifts and sacrifices being offered(K) were not able to clear the conscience(L) of the worshiper. 10 They are only a matter of food(M) and drink(N) and various ceremonial washings(O)—external regulations(P) applying until the time of the new order.

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With these things set up this way, the priests enter the first room repeatedly, performing their ministry.(A) But the high priest alone enters the second room, and he does that only once a year, and never without blood, which he offers for himself and for the sins of the people committed in ignorance.(B) The Holy Spirit was making it clear that the way into the most holy place had not yet been disclosed while the first tabernacle was still standing.(C) This is a symbol for the present time, during which gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the worshiper’s conscience.(D) 10 They are physical regulations and only deal with food, drink, and various washings imposed until the time of restoration.(E)

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