The concept of the continuity of priesthood is a significant theme in the biblical narrative, reflecting the enduring nature of the priestly office and its role in mediating between God and His people. This continuity is seen through various covenants and priestly orders established throughout the Scriptures.

Old Testament Priesthood

The priesthood in the Old Testament begins with the patriarchal figures, such as Melchizedek, who is described as "king of Salem and priest of God Most High" (Genesis 14:18). Melchizedek's priesthood is unique and serves as a typological precursor to later developments.

The formal establishment of the priesthood occurs with Aaron and his descendants, as outlined in the Mosaic Law. God commands Moses to "bring near to you Aaron your brother, and his sons with him, from among the Israelites, to serve Me as priests" (Exodus 28:1). This Aaronic priesthood is characterized by specific duties, including offering sacrifices, maintaining the sanctuary, and teaching the Law.

The continuity of the Aaronic priesthood is maintained through hereditary succession, as seen in passages like Numbers 25:13, where God grants Phinehas, Aaron's grandson, "a covenant of a lasting priesthood." This covenant underscores the enduring nature of the priestly office within the tribe of Levi.

The Levitical Priesthood

The Levitical priesthood, encompassing the broader tribe of Levi, is integral to the religious life of Israel. The Levites are set apart for service to the Lord, assisting the Aaronic priests and performing various duties related to the tabernacle and later the temple. Deuteronomy 18:5 states, "For the LORD your God has chosen him and his descendants out of all your tribes to stand and minister in His name always" .

The Promise of a New Priesthood

The Old Testament also anticipates a new and greater priesthood. Psalm 110:4 prophesies, "The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind: 'You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek'" . This promise points to a priesthood that transcends the limitations of the Aaronic line.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the continuity of priesthood finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Epistle to the Hebrews elaborates on this theme, presenting Christ as the high priest in the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 7:24-25 states, "But because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them" .

Christ's priesthood is eternal and unchangeable, offering a perfect and once-for-all sacrifice for sin. This new covenant priesthood supersedes the old, as Hebrews 8:13 declares, "By speaking of a new covenant, He has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear" .

The Priesthood of All Believers

The New Testament also introduces the concept of the priesthood of all believers. 1 Peter 2:9 affirms, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" . This spiritual priesthood emphasizes the believer's direct access to God through Christ and the call to live a life of worship and service.

The continuity of priesthood, from the Old Testament to the New, reflects God's unchanging purpose to dwell among His people and to provide a means of reconciliation and communion with Him. Through the priesthood, both in its historical and fulfilled forms, God reveals His plan of redemption and His desire for a holy people.