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The Better Priesthood – Hebrews 7
The Better Priesthood – Hebrews 7
Jesus is a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. He was appointed to be priest by God. He is a priest that is himself without sin, and yet, having been tempted in all points like as we, He is sympathetic and understanding of our situation (4:14-16).
He is not a priest according to the law and its requirements. He is of the tribe of Judah and hence not a descendant of Aaron. There then was of necessity a changing of the law from the old covenant to the new covenant in order for him to be our high priest (7:12).
Aaron was from the tribe of Levi, and thus a descendant of Abraham. The Hebrew writer makes a simple point of comparison by noting that Melchizedek blessed Abraham. He then states that 'without controversy, the lesser is blessed of the greater' (7:7). Since Aaron is a descendant of Abraham, the implication is that Melchizedek is also greater than Aaron. Thus the priesthood of Melchizedek is said to be greater than that of Aaron and the old law. We can easily diagram this by showing that Melchizedek > Abraham > Aaron.
Many ideas are involved in our understanding of Jesus being a high priest. He is a priest of a new covenant and not the law of Moses. He is a priest in heaven and not of the earthly tabernacle/temple. He offers the sacrifice of Himself directly in the presence of God. His offering of Himself is better than the offering of bulls and goats for His blood DOES take away our sins. His priesthood, unlike those of the old covenant, is permanent because he now lives forever to make intercession on our behalf.
We have a new High priest, a new covenant, a new sacrifice, and a new temple. All of these aspects are said to be better than that of the Mosaic covenant and Aaronic priesthood. Let us then come confidently before the throne of God by this priestly work of Jesus. Such confidence is based solidly upon HIS love, sacrifice, and priestly intercession. Through Him we find forgiveness of our sins and access unto God.
Hugh DeLong
