Hebrews 7Jesus’s full-time job is to intercede for believers and to rescue them from the power of sin, Satan, and adverse circumstances as they draw near to Him. “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25 (ESV) Throughout Hebrews 7, we see the High Priestliness of Jesus in the explanation of the Priestly Order of Melchizedek, more specifically in the descriptions of no beginning, no end, and one who received the worship and tithes of Abraham. But Jesus, who is THE High Priest is superior to Melchizedek in all things and all power. “It is beyond dispute that the inferior is blessed by the superior.” Hebrews 7:7 (ESV) Here in Hebrews 7, the writer clearly explains the better priesthood of Christ; and he begins with the better order, the order of Melchizedek who we meet in Genesis 14. In this chapter as throughout scripture, we see that Jesus Christ is both King and Priest, and His throne is a throne of grace. As King, He can control circumstances around you, your family and circle of influence; as Priest, He can change attitudes within you. In Jesus, we will experience righteousness and peace as we yield to Him. “Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, that glory may dwell in our land. 10 Steadfast love and faithfulness meet; righteousness and peace kiss each other.” Psalm 85:9–10 (ESV) Because He is a Priest forever, He saves forever. “To the uttermost” means “completely,” “perfectly.” Dr. Tony Evans gives us a brief overview of Melchizedek. He says in his Study Bible that “Melchizedek appears in Genesis 14:17–24. Then he’s mentioned briefly in Psalm 110:4. But here in Hebrews, he suddenly becomes a key figure in the Bible. The author tells us that Melchizedek’s name means king of righteousness (based on the Hebrew) and king of peace (Salem means “peace”; 7:2). Who comes to mind when you consider those titles? Moreover, the Old Testament doesn’t mention this man’s beginning or end. Of course, the author of Hebrews isn’t saying that he literally had no parents and never died. He’s saying that there is no record of his birth or death. Thus, he remains a priest forever (7:3). The point is that Melchizedek is a prototype of Jesus, the true King of righteousness and peace. As the divine Son of God, he had no beginning of days. And as the resurrected Lord, he has no end. Like Melchizedek, Jesus is both a priest and a King. Such a dual role was unheard of in Israel, where the offices of priest and king were intentionally distinct.” You are secure—you have assurance of your salvation—as long as He lives, and He lives eternally. You can live by the power of His endless life! A perfect salvation should lead us to a life of growing maturity and a desire to spend much time with Him in prayer, in personal and corporate worship, and reading of His Word. An earthly priesthood can make nothing perfect, nor can the law of God or the sacrifices; but Jesus Christ, who is THE High Priest can lead us into spiritual maturity as we walk by faith each moment. He invites all to come to His throne, and He understands us better than we understand ourselves. Do you know that Jesus, the High Priest who is all powerful and who is superior to Melchizedek wants a personal relationship with you? Will you receive Jesus as the High Priest if you haven’t already? Will you honor and worship Him with your walk, your time, your tithe, and in mission? Today, spend time worshiping Him in silence, in prayer, in study, and with arms wide open.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Shan SmithJesus follower, Husband, Father, ISU-FCA Area Rep, NationsofCoaches Character Coach, TH Rex Chaplain Archives
January 2024
Categories |