Faith without religion.
Christ’s Superior Priesthood: A Shift from Earthly to Eternal
In a recent teaching session, we delved into Hebrews chapter 8, exploring the profound shift from the Levitical priesthood to the superior priesthood of Christ. The writer of Hebrews emphasizes that Jesus, from the tribe of Judah, is a priest not by the old order but “after the order of Melchizedek,” signifying a transformative change in the Law. This change marks an improvement over the old covenant, which was bound by the strictures of the Law.
The chapter begins by summarizing the previous discussions, highlighting six key points about our High Priest, Jesus Christ. Unlike the earthly priests, Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Majesty in the heavens, serving as a minister of the true tabernacle, which the Lord established, not man. This heavenly tabernacle is the ultimate reality, of which the earthly tabernacle was merely a shadow.
The writer argues that the earthly priesthood, with its rituals and sacrifices, was a temporary measure, pointing to the need for a more excellent ministry. Jesus, as our High Priest, offers a better covenant, established on better promises. This new covenant, prophesied in Jeremiah, is not based on external observances but is written on the hearts of God’s people.
The teaching challenges the traditional use of the term “priest” in various religious contexts, asserting that the New Testament reserves this title for Christ alone. The earthly priesthood’s role of offering sacrifices is fulfilled and completed in Jesus, who offered Himself once for all.
As we reflect on these teachings, we are reminded of the eternal significance of Christ’s priesthood and the spiritual nature of His kingdom. The material world, with its temporary structures and systems, pales in comparison to the eternal and unchanging reality of the heavenly tabernacle where Christ reigns. This understanding calls us to focus on the spiritual and eternal, investing in our relationship with God and others in His name.