Topical Encyclopedia The title of "High Priest" as applied to Jesus Christ is a profound and significant aspect of His identity and mission, deeply rooted in the theological framework of the New Testament. This title underscores Jesus' role as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity, fulfilling and surpassing the Old Testament priesthood.Biblical Foundation The concept of Jesus as the High Priest is primarily expounded in the Book of Hebrews, which presents a detailed theological argument for Christ's priesthood. Hebrews 4:14 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." This passage highlights Jesus' divine nature and His unique qualification to serve as the High Priest. Role and Function In the Old Testament, the high priest was the chief religious leader of the Israelites, responsible for performing sacrifices and entering the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16). Jesus, as the High Priest, transcends this role by offering 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." Order of Melchizedek Jesus' priesthood is described as being in the order of Melchizedek, a mysterious and significant figure who appears in Genesis 14:18-20 and is further discussed in Hebrews 7. Unlike the Levitical priesthood, which was based on lineage, Jesus' priesthood is eternal and based on the power of an indestructible life. Hebrews 7:17 affirms, "For it is testified: 'You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.'" Intercessory Role As the High Priest, Jesus continually intercedes for believers. Hebrews 7:25 states, "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 access to God and the efficacy of Christ's atoning work. Sympathetic High Priest Jesus' experience of human life and suffering enables Him to be a compassionate and understanding High Priest. Hebrews 4:15-16 emphasizes, "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." Conclusion The title of High Priest ascribed to Jesus Christ encapsulates His unique and eternal role in the divine plan of salvation. Through His perfect sacrifice and ongoing intercession, Jesus fulfills the priestly functions in a manner that surpasses the limitations of the Old Covenant, offering believers a direct and enduring relationship with God. Nave's Topical Index Hebrews 4:14Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. Nave's Topical Index Library On the Clause, and in one Lord Jesus Christ, with a Reading from ... Hypocrisy Resources Who is Jesus Christ? | GotQuestions.orgIs there power in the name of Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Is Jesus God? Did Jesus ever claim to be God? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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