My Walk With Him: This becomes even more evident when another priest arises in the likeness of Melchizedek, who has become a priest, not on the basis of a legal requirement concerning bodily descent, but by the power of an indestructible life. For it is witnessed of him, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.” For on the one hand, a former commandment is set aside because of its weakness and uselessness[.]

Monday, February 20, 2023

This becomes even more evident when another priest arises in the likeness of Melchizedek, who has become a priest, not on the basis of a legal requirement concerning bodily descent, but by the power of an indestructible life. For it is witnessed of him, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.” For on the one hand, a former commandment is set aside because of its weakness and uselessness[.]

This becomes even more evident when another priest arises in the likeness of Melchizedek, who has become a priest, not on the basis of a legal requirement concerning bodily descent, but by the power of an indestructible life. For it is witnessed of him, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.” For on the one hand, a former commandment is set aside because of its weakness and uselessness[.] Hebrews 7:15-18

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 third division "The Eternal Priesthood of the Son," which refers to Hebrews 7:15-18. Here, the commentary highlights two key points in the text. First, Jesus's priesthood is not based on "bodily descent, but by the power of an indestructible life" (v16). The commentary shares that "[s]omething infinitely greater and eternally superior (than bodily descent) qualifies him for the position—namely, an indestructible life." The text and the commentary then pivots to shortcomings in the law and how obedience to the law is always insufficient for our salvation - works cannot save anyone, only Jesus can. Examining the language of the text, the law may always be useful (2 Timothy 3:16-17) but it is weak in its regard to save.

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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are a great God and You accomplished what obedience to the law never can - my salvation! Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of my salvation. 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.