The concept of Jesus as our High Priest is a profound and central theme in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Hebrews. This role of Jesus is pivotal for understanding His work of mediation, atonement, and intercession on behalf of believers. The High Priest in the Old Testament was a crucial figure in the religious life of Israel, responsible for offering sacrifices and entering the Holy of Holies to make atonement for the sins of the people. Jesus, as our High Priest, fulfills and surpasses this role, offering a perfect and eternal sacrifice.

Biblical Foundation

The Book of Hebrews provides the most comprehensive exposition of Jesus as our High Priest. Hebrews 4:14-16 states, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

This passage highlights several key aspects of Jesus' priesthood: His divine nature, His empathetic understanding of human frailty, and His sinlessness. Unlike the Levitical priests, Jesus' priesthood is not limited by human weakness or sin.

The Order of Melchizedek

Jesus' priesthood is described as being in the order of Melchizedek, a mysterious figure who appears in Genesis 14 and is further discussed in Hebrews 7. Hebrews 7:17 declares, "For it is testified: 'You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.'" This order signifies an eternal and superior priesthood, not based on ancestry or the Law, but on the power of an indestructible life. Melchizedek, who was both a king and a priest, prefigures Christ's dual role as King and Priest.

Atonement and Sacrifice

Central to Jesus' role as High Priest is His once-for-all sacrifice. Hebrews 9:11-12 explains, "But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that have come, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made by hands, that is, not of this creation. He did not enter by the blood of goats and calves, but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption."

This passage underscores the sufficiency and finality of Christ's sacrifice. Unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant, Jesus' offering of Himself was complete and effective for all time, securing eternal redemption for those who believe.

Intercession and Advocacy

As our High Priest, Jesus also intercedes for believers. Hebrews 7:25 assures us, "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them." This ongoing intercession is a source of comfort and assurance for Christians, knowing that Jesus continually advocates on their behalf before the Father.

Access to God

Through Jesus' priesthood, believers have direct access to God. Hebrews 10:19-22 encourages, "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."

This access is a profound privilege, allowing believers to approach God with confidence and assurance, cleansed from sin and guilt.

Conclusion

The role of Jesus as our High Priest is a cornerstone of Christian faith, providing believers with a perfect mediator, an eternal sacrifice, and a compassionate intercessor. Embracing Jesus in this role deepens one's understanding of His work and the profound access to God that He provides.