The role of the priest in the biblical context is one of profound significance, serving as a mediator between God and His people. The responsibilities and conduct of priests are outlined in various passages throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing their sacred duties, moral integrity, and the spiritual leadership they are to provide.

Responsibilities of Priests

1. Mediation and Sacrifice: Priests were primarily responsible for offering sacrifices on behalf of the people, acting as intermediaries between God and Israel. Leviticus 1-7 details the various offerings and the specific procedures priests were to follow. The priestly role in sacrifices underscores the necessity of holiness and obedience in approaching God.

2. Teaching the Law: Priests were tasked with teaching the Israelites God's statutes and laws. In Leviticus 10:11, the Lord commands Aaron and his sons to "teach the Israelites all the statutes that the LORD has given them through Moses." This educational role was crucial in maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people.

3. Maintaining the Sanctuary: Priests were responsible for the upkeep and sanctity of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple. Numbers 18:5 states, "You are to perform the duties of the sanctuary and of the altar, so that wrath will not fall on the Israelites again." This duty highlights the importance of purity and reverence in worship.

4. Intercession: Priests were to intercede for the people, seeking God's favor and forgiveness on their behalf. In Exodus 28:29, Aaron is instructed to bear the names of the sons of Israel on the breastpiece of judgment over his heart when he enters the Holy Place, as a continual reminder before the LORD.

Conduct of Priests

1. Holiness and Purity: Priests were required to maintain a high standard of holiness and purity. Leviticus 21 outlines specific regulations regarding their conduct, including restrictions on marriage and prohibitions against defilement. The call to holiness is encapsulated in Leviticus 21:6, "They must be holy to their God and not profane the name of their God."

2. Sobriety and Self-Control: Priests were to exercise sobriety, particularly when serving in the Tabernacle. Leviticus 10:9 warns, "You and your sons are not to drink wine or strong drink when you enter the Tent of Meeting, or else you will die." This command underscores the need for clear-mindedness in performing sacred duties.

3. Moral Integrity: The moral character of priests was of utmost importance. Malachi 2:7-8 criticizes priests who have turned from the way and caused many to stumble by their instruction. The passage highlights the expectation that priests should walk in integrity and truth.

4. Compassion and Justice: Priests were to embody God's compassion and justice. In Deuteronomy 17:9-11, they are involved in judicial matters, ensuring that justice is administered according to God's law. Their role in justice reflects God's own character as a righteous judge.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the concept of priesthood is expanded through the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is described as the ultimate High Priest. Hebrews 4:14-16 presents Jesus as the great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, sympathizing with human weaknesses and offering grace and mercy. This fulfillment of the priestly role in Christ underscores the continuity and transformation of priestly responsibilities and conduct in the new covenant.

The New Testament also introduces the priesthood of all believers, as seen 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 extends the call to holiness, service, and proclamation to all followers of Christ, reflecting the priestly ideals of the Old Testament in a broader spiritual context.