Wednesday, February 22, 2023

And it was not without an oath. For those who formerly became priests were made such without an oath, but this one was made a priest with an oath by the one who said to him: “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, ‘You are a priest forever.’” This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant.

Hebrews 7

And it was not without an oath. For those who formerly became priests were made such without an oath, but this one was made a priest with an oath by the one who said to him: “The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind, ‘You are a priest forever.’” This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant. Hebrews 7:20-22

I continue my study of Hebrews, assisted by the commentary Christ Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in Hebrews. This morning, my focus is on Hebrews 7:11-22, as I lean on my commentary, and how it unpacks the fifth division "A Better Hope for a Better Covenant," which refers to Hebrews 7:20-22. The text and associated commentary highlight how the author of Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus is a superior High Priest than one from the Levites because He swore an oath to Himself from Psalm 110:4 that ‘You are a priest forever.’  This oath is "unchangeable." The commentary closes by sharing that "[i]n verse 22 the author [of Hebrews] also connects priesthood to covenant. This is an idea that he will more fully explain in chapter 8. Yet for the time being, the author hints at the fact that not only is Jesus a better priest, but his priesthood is actually part of a better covenant, the “new covenant” spoken of in Jeremiah 31[:31-34]....God’s covenant promise cannot fail because God’s priest, Jesus Christ, cannot fail." Believers: rest in the promises of God and His faithfulness!

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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is faithful - all of Your promises are true and we can count on You like no other!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You provide and how You are faithful.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You, with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.