The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. 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 7:23-25
I continue my study of Hebrews, assisted by the commentary Christ Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in Hebrews. My focus this morning is Hebrews 7:23-28, as a lean specifically on Hebrews 7:23-25 and the associated commentary, which refers to this text as the first division "The Permanent Priest". Here the text highlights the difference between the Levitical priesthood and Jesus as Great High Priest, which describes the former as limited by an early life that is limited by death, and the latter which is permanent as it is based on a resurrected life and a Kingdom that lasts forever. The commentary examines however something that it describes as being less present to the modern reader - that the original reader of Hebrews might not be able to fathom how a covenant and priesthood based on Jesus is better than the Abrahamic covenant and the priesthood role filled by Aaron and his descendants. The commentary makes it clear that this contrast was important to the author of Hebrews to highlight for the original readers because the New Covenant made available by the shed blood of Jesus was better in all ways. The commentary writes: "[t]he Abrahamic covenant did not save, even though it bestowed many blessings." Jesus alone saves!
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are a great God and You save! Thank You. You saved me and I am not deserving! 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.
