Introduction

The concept of a change in the priesthood and the law is a significant theological theme in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Hebrews. This change is rooted in the transition from the Levitical priesthood, established under the Mosaic Law, to the priesthood of Jesus Christ, which is according to the order of Melchizedek. This transition signifies a shift in the covenantal relationship between God and His people, emphasizing the superiority and fulfillment of the Old Covenant through the New Covenant in Christ.

The Levitical Priesthood

The Levitical priesthood was instituted under the Mosaic Law, with Aaron and his descendants serving as priests. This priesthood was responsible for offering sacrifices and mediating between God and the Israelites. The law prescribed specific duties, rituals, and sacrifices that the priests were to perform to atone for the sins of the people. The Levitical priesthood was inherently limited, as it was based on hereditary succession and was unable to bring about complete redemption or perfection.

The Order of Melchizedek

Melchizedek, a mysterious figure who appears in Genesis 14:18-20, is described as the king of Salem and a priest of God Most High. He blesses Abram and receives a tithe from him. Psalm 110:4 prophesies a priesthood "in the order of Melchizedek," which is later applied to Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Unlike the Levitical priests, Melchizedek's priesthood is characterized by its eternal and universal nature, not limited by ancestry or the law.

The Change in Priesthood

The book of Hebrews elaborates on the change in priesthood, emphasizing that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the Melchizedekian priesthood. Hebrews 7:11-12 states, "If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on this basis the people received the Law), what further need was there for another priest to appear, one in the order of Melchizedek and not in the order of Aaron? For when the priesthood is changed, the Law must be changed as well."

This passage highlights the necessity of a new priesthood because the Levitical system could not achieve the ultimate goal of perfection and reconciliation with God. Jesus, as the high priest in the order of Melchizedek, offers a once-for-all sacrifice, rendering the repetitive sacrifices of the Levitical priests obsolete.

The Change in the Law

The change in the priesthood necessitates a change in the law. Hebrews 7:18-19 explains, "So the former commandment is set aside because it was weak and useless (for the Law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God." The Mosaic Law, while serving as a guide and tutor, was unable to bring about the complete redemption and transformation of humanity. With the advent of Christ's priesthood, a new covenant is established, characterized by grace and truth.

The New Covenant

The new covenant, prophesied in Jeremiah 31:31-34 and fulfilled in Christ, is marked by an internal transformation and a direct relationship with God. Hebrews 8:6 states, "But now Jesus has received a more excellent ministry, just as the covenant He mediates is better and is founded on better promises." This covenant is not based on external adherence to the law but on the internal work of the Holy Spirit, writing God's laws on the hearts of believers.

Implications for Believers

The change in the priesthood and the law has profound implications for believers. It signifies the end of the old sacrificial system and the beginning of a new era of direct access to God through Jesus Christ. Believers are called to live under the new covenant, experiencing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the assurance of eternal redemption through the perfect sacrifice of Christ.