Introduction

The concept of Jesus as the Great High Priest is a central theme in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Hebrews. This title emphasizes Jesus' unique role in mediating between God and humanity, fulfilling and surpassing the functions of the Old Testament priesthood. The Great High Priesthood of Jesus is foundational to understanding His work of atonement, intercession, and His eternal priestly ministry.

Old Testament Background

In the Old Testament, the high priest was the chief religious leader of the Israelites, responsible for performing sacrifices, entering the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement, and interceding for the people. The high priesthood was established through Aaron, the brother of Moses, and was a hereditary position within the tribe of Levi (Exodus 28-29).

Jesus as the Fulfillment

The New Testament presents Jesus as the fulfillment of the high priestly role, transcending the limitations of the Levitical priesthood. Unlike the priests of the Old Covenant, who were many in number and subject to death, Jesus is described as a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 7:17). This eternal priesthood signifies a new and superior covenant.

Hebrews and the High Priesthood of Jesus

The Book of Hebrews provides the most comprehensive exposition of Jesus as the Great High Priest. Hebrews 4:14-16 states, "Therefore, since we have such 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."

Superior Sacrifice

Jesus' priesthood is marked by the offering of Himself as the perfect and final sacrifice for sin. 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."

Intercession and Advocacy

As the Great High Priest, Jesus continually intercedes for believers. Hebrews 7:25 declares, "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 assures believers of their secure standing before God.

Access to God

Through Jesus' priestly work, 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."

Conclusion

The role of Jesus as the Great High Priest is integral to Christian theology, emphasizing His unique and eternal priesthood, His perfect sacrifice, and His ongoing intercession for believers. Through Him, the barriers between God and humanity are removed, granting believers direct access to the Father and assurance of salvation.