We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. (Hebrews 6:19-20a)
“The inner sanctuary behind the curtain” calls to mind the Holy of Holies, an inner chamber of the Temple which once stood on Mount Zion in Jerusalem. We have no biblical evidence that Jesus ever entered the Holy of Holies, only the note that at Jesus’ death the curtain in the Temple was torn in two. So a figurative interpretation arises within me: The inner sanctuary may be seen as a figure for the human soul. Hope is anchored in the soul, because Christ has gone to the very depths already. Humanity may be unaware of the presence or work of Christ within. Indeed, the symbol of the curtain implies something hidden. Yet Christ is both present and working within.
John Wesley called it prevenient grace.
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