Hebrews 7:11

Now if perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on this basis the people received the law), why was there still need for another priest to appear--one in the order of Melchizedek and not in the order of Aaron?

Study Bible

Now if perfection
The term "perfection" in Greek is "teleiosis," which implies a state of completeness or fulfillment. In the context of the Levitical priesthood, it suggests the ultimate goal of spiritual maturity and reconciliation with God. The Levitical system, with its sacrifices and rituals, was never intended to bring about this ultimate perfection. It served as a temporary measure, pointing towards a more complete solution in Christ.

could have been attained
The phrase suggests a hypothetical scenario, emphasizing the limitations of the Levitical priesthood. The Greek word "teleioō" means to bring to an end or to accomplish. The author of Hebrews is arguing that the old covenant, represented by the Levitical priesthood, was incapable of achieving the ultimate goal of reconciling humanity with God.

through the Levitical priesthood
The Levitical priesthood, established under the Mosaic Law, was central to the religious life of Israel. It was named after Levi, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, from which the priests were chosen. This system was characterized by a continuous cycle of sacrifices, which could never fully remove sin but only cover it temporarily.

for on this basis the people received the Law
The Law, or Torah, was given to the Israelites as a covenant, with the Levitical priesthood serving as its mediators. The Law was a guide for living in covenant relationship with God, but it also highlighted the need for a more profound solution to the problem of sin, as it could not change the human heart.

what further need would there have been
This rhetorical question underscores the insufficiency of the Levitical system. If the old covenant could achieve God's ultimate purpose, there would be no need for a new order. The question invites the reader to consider the necessity of a superior priesthood.

for another priest to appear
The "another priest" refers to Jesus Christ, who is presented as a priest of a different order. The Greek word "heteros" implies a priest of a different kind, not just another in a sequence. This highlights the uniqueness and superiority of Christ's priesthood.

one in the order of Melchizedek
Melchizedek is a mysterious figure who appears in Genesis 14 as both a king and priest. His order is eternal and not based on lineage, unlike the Aaronic priesthood. This order signifies a priesthood that transcends the limitations of the Levitical system, pointing to Christ's eternal and perfect priesthood.

and not in the order of Aaron
Aaron, the brother of Moses, was the first high priest of Israel, and his descendants served as priests under the old covenant. The Aaronic priesthood was hereditary and temporary, limited by human weakness and mortality. In contrast, Christ's priesthood, in the order of Melchizedek, is eternal and perfect, offering a complete and final solution to the problem of sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Levitical Priesthood
This refers to the priestly system established under the Law of Moses, where the descendants of Levi, particularly Aaron, served as priests. Their role was to mediate between God and the Israelites, offering sacrifices and performing rituals.

2. Melchizedek
A mysterious figure in the Bible, Melchizedek was both a king and priest who blessed Abraham. He is significant for being a priest not by lineage but by divine appointment, prefiguring Christ's eternal priesthood.

3. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. The Aaronic priesthood was hereditary, passed down through his descendants.

4. The Law
Refers to the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites, which included ceremonial, moral, and civil laws. The Levitical priesthood was a central part of this system.

5. Jesus Christ
The ultimate high priest in the order of Melchizedek, whose priesthood is eternal and perfect, unlike the temporary and imperfect Levitical priesthood.

Teaching Points

The Imperfection of the Old System
The Levitical priesthood and the Law were unable to bring about true spiritual perfection. They were a shadow of the greater reality to come in Christ.

The Superiority of Christ's Priesthood
Jesus, as a priest in the order of Melchizedek, offers a perfect and eternal priesthood. Unlike the Levitical priests, His priesthood is not based on ancestry but on the power of an indestructible life.

The Necessity of a New Covenant
The need for a priest in the order of Melchizedek indicates the insufficiency of the old covenant and the necessity of a new, better covenant through Jesus.

Living Under Grace
Believers are called to live under the grace of the new covenant, relying on Christ's perfect sacrifice and priesthood rather than the works of the Law.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of perfection in the Levitical priesthood compare to the perfection found in Christ's priesthood?

2. In what ways does the order of Melchizedek prefigure the ministry of Jesus Christ?

3. How does understanding the limitations of the Levitical priesthood enhance our appreciation for the new covenant in Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out the reality of being under Christ's eternal priesthood in our daily lives?

5. How can we use the understanding of Christ's superior priesthood to encourage others who may be struggling with legalism or a works-based faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 110:4
This verse prophesies about a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek, pointing to Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of this eternal priesthood.

Hebrews 5:6-10
These verses discuss Jesus being designated by God as a high priest in the order of Melchizedek, emphasizing His divine appointment and eternal nature.

Hebrews 8:6-7
These verses highlight the superiority of the new covenant mediated by Christ, which is founded on better promises than the old covenant.