The concept of the priestly calling of believers is a significant theme in the New Testament, reflecting the transformation of the believer's role in the spiritual community through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. This calling is rooted in the understanding that all believers, through faith in Christ, are granted a priestly status, enabling them to offer spiritual sacrifices and intercede on behalf of others.

Old Testament Background

The Old Testament priesthood was established through the tribe of Levi, with Aaron and his descendants serving as priests (Exodus 28:1). The primary role of the priests was to mediate between God and the people, offering sacrifices and maintaining the rituals of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. This priesthood was a foreshadowing of the ultimate priesthood of Jesus Christ, who is described as a priest in the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:10).

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the priestly calling is expanded to include all believers, a concept known as the "priesthood of all believers." This is articulated in 1 Peter 2:9, which states, "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 passage highlights the collective identity of believers as a royal priesthood, emphasizing their role in proclaiming the gospel and living as representatives of God's kingdom.

Spiritual Sacrifices

Believers are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, which differ from the physical sacrifices of the Old Testament. Romans 12:1 urges believers to "offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship." This indicates that the life of a believer, characterized by obedience and holiness, is an offering to God. Hebrews 13:15-16 further elaborates on this by encouraging believers to continually offer "a sacrifice of praise to God" and to "do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased."

Intercession and Access to God

The priestly calling also involves intercession, as believers are encouraged to pray for one another and for the world. James 5:16 states, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail." This underscores the believer's role in interceding for others, drawing on the access to God granted through Jesus Christ. Hebrews 4:16 invites believers to "approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

Unity and Service

The priestly calling fosters unity among believers, as they are all part of the body of Christ, each with unique gifts and roles. Ephesians 4:11-12 describes how Christ gave various gifts to equip the saints for the work of ministry, building up the body of Christ. This service is an expression of the priestly calling, as believers work together to advance God's kingdom on earth.

Conclusion

The priestly calling of believers is a profound aspect of Christian identity, emphasizing the transformative power of the gospel. Through Christ, believers are empowered to live as a royal priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices, interceding for others, and serving in unity for the glory of God.