Priests in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, the role of the priest was central to the religious life of Israel. Priests were primarily from the tribe of Levi, specifically the descendants of Aaron, Moses' brother. Their primary duties included offering sacrifices, maintaining the Tabernacle (and later the Temple), and teaching the Law to the people. The priesthood was established by God as a means of mediating between Himself and the Israelites.

The Book of Leviticus outlines the various offerings and sacrifices that the priests were responsible for, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings (Leviticus 1-7). The high priest, a unique role within the priesthood, had the special duty of entering the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16).

Priests also played a role in determining the cleanliness of individuals and objects, as seen in Leviticus 13-14, where they diagnosed and managed cases of leprosy. They were also responsible for blessing the people, as seen in the Aaronic blessing: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace" (Numbers 6:24-26).

Priests in the New Testament

The New Testament redefines the concept of priesthood through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is described as the ultimate High Priest, who offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin, thus fulfilling and surpassing the Old Testament sacrificial system. The Book of Hebrews elaborates on this, stating, "But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, He sat down at the right hand of God" (Hebrews 10:12).

With the coming of Christ, the priesthood of all believers is introduced. This concept is rooted in passages such as 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 indicates that all believers have direct access to God through Christ and are called to serve Him and proclaim His truth.

Believers as Priests

The priesthood of all believers signifies that every Christian has the privilege and responsibility to approach God directly, without the need for an earthly mediator. This is made possible through the atoning work of Christ, who has torn the veil that separated humanity from the Holy of Holies (Matthew 27:51). Believers are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, such as praise, good works, and sharing the Gospel (Hebrews 13:15-16).

Furthermore, believers are tasked with interceding for others, much like the priests of the Old Testament. James 5:16 encourages believers to "confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail" .

The Church as a Priestly Community

The New Testament church is depicted as a community of priests, where each member contributes to the spiritual health and mission of the body. Ephesians 4:11-12 describes the various roles within the church, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, all working together to equip the saints for ministry and build up the body of Christ.

In this priestly community, believers are encouraged to use their spiritual gifts for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7). The church is called to be a light to the world, reflecting the holiness and love of God, and drawing others to Him through their witness and service.