The Old Covenant that God established required a priest to mediate forgiveness, offer sacrifices for sins, and navigate the spiritual growth and edification of the people. This was accomplished primarily in the sanctuary of the tabernacle behind a veil which separated God from the people; both literally and spiritually. The priest interpreted mysteries, translated needs, and represented those who were confined by this veil, a veil which prevented them from independently understanding spiritual truths; truths which, ironically, were part of God's eventual perfect will for them to know. Today, we have a special opportunity to participate in a dynamic relationship with God through Christ Jesus, without any other mediator, outside intervention or system of religion. The culmination of God's history with mankind is in Christ's sacrifice, and life, which establish both a New Covenant and the freedom for us to confidently go into His presence, and to remain there forever. The veil of the Old Covenant is therefore torn and done away with through the provisions of this New Covenant which call for each of us to rest from our inadequate efforts in coming to God through ceremonial observances, adherence to the Ten Commandments, or other methods that seem intuitively appealing to us. Through this new relationship, we are invited, and challenged, to experience the greatest spiritual joy and happiness that is within our capacity to realize, without limitation; other than that which we construct and impose upon ourselves.
The Torn Veil : An Invitation and Commentary to the Christian Life