In the context of the Old Testament, high priests were required to offer sacrifices regularly, both for their own sins and for the sins of the people. These sacrifices were a central part of the Jewish law and were necessary to maintain a right relationship with God. However, they were temporary and needed to be repeated continually. Jesus, in contrast, offered himself as a perfect and eternal sacrifice. His offering was not just for his own sins, as he was sinless, but solely for the sins of humanity. This act was once and for all, meaning it was complete and sufficient for all time.
The significance of Jesus' sacrifice is profound. It means that believers no longer need to rely on the old system of repeated sacrifices to be in right standing with God. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate act of love and redemption, providing a permanent solution to the problem of sin. This brings a deep sense of freedom and assurance to Christians, knowing that their sins are forgiven and they are reconciled with God through Jesus' once-for-all sacrifice. It emphasizes the superiority of Jesus' priesthood and his role as the perfect mediator between God and humanity.