Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 13:39 (Aug 2009)
Article: The Error Of Divine And Mystical Attributions With Regard To The Blood Of Christ
Author: Ron J. Bigalke, Jr.

JODT 13:39 (August 2009) p. 39

The Error Of Divine And Mystical Attributions With Regard To The Blood Of Christ1

Ron J. Bigalke Jr., Ph.D.

Author, Lecturer, Pastor, Eternal Ministries;

Missionary, Biblical Ministries Worldwide;

Professor of Bible and Theology, Tyndale Theological Seminary

Perspectives in regards to understanding the biblical teaching concerning the blood of Christ have been varied. Reverence for the preciousness of the blood of Christ (1 Pet 1:19) has no doubt been an influential factor among Christians whose theology is generally conservative, who have sought to defend the notion of divine attributions in regards to the blood of Christ. Among generally conservative theologies, one may often encounter statements that the blood of Christ is so precious that it is actually preserved in heaven. There is, however, some extreme teachings concerning the blood of Christ by those whose theology is generally less conservative, and even frequently heretical. These mystical attributions in regards to the blood of Christ have resulted in unbiblical (even pagan) notions regarding the extent of the power of Christ’s shed blood. An example of such attributions would include the teaching that a Christian may simply speak the “blood of Christ” to protect one’s home, self, and even family. The intent of this article is to assist the church in understanding the blood of Christ based upon the authority of Scripture. To accomplish this intent, two issues will be addressed: (1) the error of attributing the divine to the blood of Christ; and, (2) the error of attributing the mystical to the blood of Christ. Throughout this article, the author intends to demonstrate how Scripture defines the blood of Christ and its salvific accomplishments.

The importance of understanding the blood of Christ is evident throughout Scripture. For instance, the writer to the Hebrews instructed believers that all Christians “have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus” (Heb 10:19). Based upon reconciliation with Jesus

JODT 13:39 (August 2009) p. 40

Christ as God and Savior, the Christian can enter into the very presence of the Creator of the universe through the shed blood of God’s own Son. Christ “always lives to make intercession” (7:25) for those trusting in Him alone for redemption. Therefore, those who are being sanctified2 through the blood of Jesus have immediate access into the presence of God because Christ appears “in the presence of...