The Eternal Origins Of Christs Priesthood.

Unveiling the Priesthood: Christ Our High Priest

Bible Passage: Hebrews 5:1–6

This passage discusses the role and qualifications of the high priest, highlighting Christ's divine appointment and connection to the priestly order of Melchizedek.

This Melchizedek Priesthood was already around in Genesis before the Law of Moses and the Levitical Priesthood was even around.

Galatians 3:24 NIV

So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith.

Understanding Christ's unique role as our High Priest helps us approach God with confidence, knowing He intercedes for us. It reminds us of Christ's empathy towards our struggles and encourages us to lean on Him during times of need.

These verses teach us that Christ's high priesthood is rooted in both His humanity and divinity, providing believers with a perfect mediator who understands our weaknesses and offers salvation.

In the context of Scripture, Christ fulfills the Old Testament priestly roles, transcending them by being both the ultimate sacrifice and the eternal High Priest. His priesthood is a continuation of God's plan for redemption. So we see a link between the old Testament priesthood and Christs New Testament priesthood.

Christ's high priesthood is not just a title; it is a divine appointment that fulfills our need for a perfect mediator in our relationship with God.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider using Logos to explo

1. Priests' Purpose: Human Empathy

Hebrews 5:1–2 ESV

For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness.

One of the human qualifications of the high priest, was they were human. But in the Old Testament they had to be a Levite descended from Aaron. Christ is the only one who qualifies in the New Testament, without father or mother without genealogy. understanding of human frailty and empathy towards others' weaknesses. Jesus, while divine, shares in our humanity, knowing our struggles intimately. This reassures us as believers that we are not alone, for He intercedes with full understanding of human struggles.

2. Priests' Purity: Divine Appointment

Hebrews 5:3–4 ESV

Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people. And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was.

The Old Testament priests offer sacrifices for their sin, signifying the need for a flawless mediator. Jesus is appointed by God, signifying divine authority and perfection. He is sinless, setting Him apart from human priests, yet He bridges the heavenly and earthly realms as ordained by God. This section assures Christians of Christ's ultimate authority and purity needed for mediation.

3. Priests' Permanence: Eternal Role

Hebrews 5:5–6 ESV

So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “You are my Son, today I have begotten you”; as he says also in another place, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.”

Jesus' unique priesthood under Melchizedek, because he is the only one who can fulfill it. A figure signifying eternal priesthood, kingly and priestly functions. Jesus’ appointment is not self-proclaimed but divine, continuing God’s redemptive plan. This eternal role means He remains a constant mediator in believers' lives. This serves as an assurance of unwavering divine connection, encouraging faith amidst trials.

In his life Christ is an example showing us how to live; in his death, he is a sacrifice satisfying for our sins; in his resurrection, a conqueror; in his ascension, a king; in his intercession a high priest.Martin Luther (Founder of the German Reformation)

51  Christian, no matter how serious your present problems may be, no matter how hopeless the situation may seem, take heart! You are not alone. You have a sympathetic high priest who can enter into all your problems, for they have been His problems too.Jay Adams Christ and Your Problems