In Luke 23 What Significance Does The Tearing Of The Temple Curtain Hold For Our Relationship With God?
The Tearing of the Temple Curtain: Access to God Through Christ
One of the most dramatic moments in the account of Christ’s crucifixion is the tearing of the temple curtain. Recorded in Luke 23:45 ASV, this event is packed with meaning for our relationship with God. Let’s explore what happened, its Old Testament background, and the profound implications for anyone who trusts in Jesus Christ.
What Happened?
As Jesus hung on the cross, darkness fell over the land. Then, at the moment of His death, the temple curtain was torn in two:
the sun’s light failing: and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. - Luke 23:45 ASV
This event is also reported in Matthew 27:51 and Mark 15:38. The curtain, sometimes called the veil, separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) in the temple—where God’s presence was understood to dwell.
The Curtain’s Old Testament Background
In the Old Testament, the curtain was a physical and symbolic barrier. Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year, on the Day of Atonement, to offer blood for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2). This separation emphasized God’s holiness and the seriousness of sin. Human access to God was restricted and mediated through sacrifices and priesthood.
What Does the Tearing Mean?
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Direct Access to God Through Jesus
The tearing of the curtain at Jesus’ death symbolizes that the way to God is now open to all who come through faith in Christ. No longer is access limited to priests; through Jesus, every believer can approach God directly.Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by the way which he dedicated for us, a new and living way, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh. - Hebrews 10:19-20 ASV
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End of the Old Covenant System
The torn curtain marks the end of the old system of sacrifices, priesthood, and restricted access. Christ’s sacrifice was sufficient—once for all.but he, when he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; - Hebrews 10:12 ASV
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God’s Presence with His People
The separation between God and humanity caused by sin is overcome in Christ. The torn curtain signifies that, through Jesus, God dwells with His people in a new way.For through him we both have our access in one Spirit unto the Father. - Ephesians 2:18 ASV
Implications for Our Relationship with God
The tearing of the temple curtain is a powerful illustration that, because of Jesus’ sacrifice, anyone who trusts in Him is welcomed into God’s presence. There is no longer a barrier—no need for repeated sacrifices or a human mediator. Believers can confidently approach God in prayer, worship, and daily life.
Let us therefore draw near with boldness unto the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and may find grace to help us in time of need. - Hebrews 4:16 ASV
Multiple Viewpoints
Some interpret the tearing of the curtain as an act of judgment on the temple system, while others see it primarily as an act of invitation. Both aspects are affirmed in the text, but the mainstream evangelical understanding sees the primary focus on the new access to God through Christ’s finished work (John 14:6).
Conclusion
The torn curtain is a vivid, historical sign: through the death of Jesus, believers are invited into a restored, personal relationship with God. Christ alone is our mediator, and by grace through faith, we are welcomed into God’s presence—today and forever.