A priest is one who intercedes before God on our behalf. God first instituted the sacerdotal office by electing Aaron and his sons “to serve me as priests.” They were commanded how to dress, how to perform the appointed rites, and how to fear the most holy things of God. Those who neglected these instructions (such as Nadab, Abihu, and Eli’s sons) were expelled from office by means of an untimely death. But even those who faithfully performed their priestly duties would die in the end, leaving the work to their progeny. And so it was, even down to Jesus’ day. Each new priest would offer sacrifices for the sins of the people, so as to avert the wrath of our holy God. But Jesus, condemned to death by the very priesthood He appointed, became our Great High Priest by sacrificing His own body. His shed blood accomplished what the Levitical offerings could only foreshadow: salvation.
“It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins,” but now “we have been justified by His blood.”
And if we are saved by His blood, how much more by Himself, since He continues forever! As it is written,
“You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.”
“If while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.”
By the power of His indestructible life, Jesus has completed and fulfilled the role of the High Priest, and even now continues to minister before His Father:
“Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.”
Thank you, Lord, for saving us from the wrath we deserve, and for ministering before God that we might become holy!
“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”