Creator, Father, King #322

Since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe.

FROM THE TIME OF the Exodus from Egypt to the destruction of the second Temple—approximately 1,300 to 1,500 years (depending on when you date the Exodus)—the Jewish high priest held a very important position in ancient Israel. High priests were the nation’s spiritual leaders, interceding for the sins of the people before God.

They had many specific duties, the most important of which was the annual Day of Atonement ceremony when they made special sacrifices for the nation and for the Tabernacle itself, making it possible for a holy God to remain present among unclean people. This was the only day of the year when the high priest would enter into the Most Holy Place of the Tabernacle/Temple.

When Jesus came, he became our great High Priest through his once-for-all sacrifice on the cross and guaranteed a “better covenant with God” (Hebrews 7:22) than the Old Testament covenant of laws and sacrifices. Most of the book of Hebrews is dedicated to exploring the glories of Jesus’ eternal high priesthood.

Let’s take a look at this marvelous reality.

What’s It Mean?

As Hebrews 7:23-25 says,

There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office. But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.

As our eternal High Priest, here’s what Jesus has done and continues to do for all believers:

• secured propitiation for us, turning God’s wrath toward us into favor through his perfect sacrifice for our sins (Hebrews 2:17; for more on propitiation, see the September 21 devotion)
• helps us in our trials since he has endured indescribable suffering (Hebrews 2:18)
• sympathizes with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15)
• allows us to “come boldly to the throne of our gracious God” in prayer (Hebrews 4:16)
• sanctifies us continually so we can grow in godliness (Hebrews 10:14)
• assures us that we are righteous before God based on his sacrifice (Hebrews 10:22)
• motivates us to gather together often with other believers, show Christian love, and do good work until Christ’s return (Hebrews 10:24-25)

And that’s just a small glimpse of what Jesus does for us. We have an amazing, eternal High Priest who always intercedes for us at the Father’s right hand!

Now What?

Read the book of Hebrews.

Did You Know?

While many biblical authors identify themselves, the author of Hebrews is anonymous.