The Priesthood of Melchizedek And Christ
Hebrews 7:1-28
- What did it mean to the original reader or original audience?
Summarize the main story: Describe the events of the scriptural story in your own words.
Review and retell the story.
- As a child, who was your favorite superhero? What could he or she do that you wished you could: Fly? Display super-strength? Always win? Talk his way out of anything?
- If you could live to be 100-years-old but could retain either the body or the mind of a 30-year-old, which would you choose? Why?
#People = Jesus Christ, Melchizedek, Abraham, Levi, The Levitical Priests
#Time =
#Place = Jerusalem, Salem
#Obedient faith =
#Sin =
#Key Idea =
The Priestly Order of Melchizedek
1For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, 2and to him Abraham apportioned a tenth part of everything. He is first, by translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, that is, king of peace. 3He is without father or mother or genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but resembling the Son of God he continues a priest forever.
4See how great this man was to whom Abraham the patriarch gave a tenth of the spoils! 5And those descendants of Levi who receive the priestly office have a commandment in the law to take tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers,a though these also are descended from Abraham. 6But this man who does not have his descent from them received tithes from Abraham and blessed him who had the promises. 7It is beyond dispute that the inferior is blessed by the superior. 8In the one case tithes are received by mortal men, but in the other case, by one of whom it is testified that he lives. 9One might even say that Levi himself, who receives tithes, paid tithes through Abraham, 10for he was still in the loins of his ancestor when Melchizedek met him.
Jesus Compared to Melchizedek
11Now if perfection had been attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for under it the people received the law), what further need would there have been for another priest to arise after the order of Melchizedek, rather than one named after the order of Aaron? 12For when there is a change in the priesthood, there is necessarily a change in the law as well. 13For the one of whom these things are spoken belonged to another tribe, from which no one has ever served at the altar. 14For it is evident that our Lord was descended from Judah, and in connection with that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.
15This becomes even more evident when another priest arises in the likeness of Melchizedek, 16who has become a priest, not on the basis of a legal requirement concerning bodily descent, but by the power of an indestructible life. 17For it is witnessed of him,
“You are a priest forever,
after the order of Melchizedek.”
18For on the one hand, a former commandment is set aside because of its weakness and uselessness 19(for the law made nothing perfect); but on the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God.
20And it was not without an oath. For those who formerly became priests were made such without an oath, 21but 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.’”
22This makes Jesus the guarantor of a better covenant.
23The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, 24but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever. 25Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermostb those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.
26For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. 27He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself. 28For the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever.
Key Points
- Melchizedek, king of Salem, was a priest of God Most High. He blessed Abraham and received tithes from him.
- Unlike the Levitical priests, Melchizedek was not of the tribe of Levi. His priesthood was superior to theirs.
- The author argues that if Melchizedek's priesthood was superior to the Levitical priesthood, then Jesus' priesthood - which is compared to Melchizedek's - must also be superior.
- Jesus is described as a "high priest according to the order of Melchizedek" (verse 11).
- The author emphasizes that Jesus' priesthood is eternal, unlike the temporary Levitical priesthood.
Significance
- The chapter highlights the superiority of Jesus' priesthood over the old covenant system.
- It emphasizes that Jesus' role as high priest is eternal and superior to all previous priestly systems.
- The author uses Melchizedek as a type or foreshadowing of Christ's priesthood.
Conclusion
Hebrews 7 reinforces the main theme of Hebrews - that Jesus is superior to everything in the old covenant system. By comparing Jesus' priesthood to Melchizedek's, the author demonstrates that the new covenant through Christ is better than the old.
The Priestly Order of Melchizedek
7:1-10
Synopsis: This passage establishes Melchizedek’s superiority over the priesthood of Israel (vv. 1–10). Chapter 7 develops the main topic introduced in 5:1–10: Jesus’ appointment as a high priest in the order of Melchizedek. This section proclaims the superiority of Melchizedek’s priesthood over that of the Levites, based primarily on Gen 14:17–20.
Abraham met Melchizedek on the return from the war with the kings. Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek. Melchizedek blessed Abraham. Melchizedek was king of righteousness and king of peace. He did not inherit his priesthood as his father and mother are unknown. There is nothing known about his descendants. He was one of a kind. He was both king and high priest. Jesus, the Son of God is both King and high priest. He is high priest after the order of Melchizedek.
Since Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils to Melchizedek, Melchizedek is greater than the righteous Abraham is because the least gives to the greater. The priests under the law of Moses are commanded to take tithes. They are descendants of Abraham. However, Melchizedek received tithes from Abraham. Melchizedek was not a Levite. The point being that the greater blesses the lesser. This was the case with Melchizedek and Abraham. Melchizedek is a type of Christ. Levi paid tithes representatively to Melchizedek being a descendant of Abraham. The priests under the law of Moses died; however, Jesus Christ is high priest during the entire Christian Age.
If the Levitical priesthood had been perfect, there would be no need for another priesthood. But the Levitical priesthood was not perfect. The priesthood is the basis of the law. If the priesthood is changed, the law must also be changed. Jesus was from the tribe of Judah, not Levi; therefore, he could not be a priest under the law of Moses. The law of Moses was canceled. If there is a high priest after the order of Melchizedek not under the requirements of the law, but by superior qualifications, then the law must have been changed due to its weakness. The law has been done away with because it could not do what it should do - reconcile men to God. Because the law of Moses could not justify men, it was taken out of the way; however, Jesus did justify men. The Levitical priesthood was made without an oath; however, the priesthood of Jesus Christ is superior as it was made with an oath. God did not promise never to change the Levitical priesthood; however, God has sworn never to change the priesthood of Christ. Jesus is the guarantee of a better covenant. Under the law of Moses they changed high priest every time one died. Christ never dies; therefore, he has an unchangeable priesthood. Christ is able to save and make intercession for man forever.
Jesus is a high priest who is holy, guileless, undefiled, separate from sinners and higher than the heavens. The high priest had to offer sacrifices for their own sins first. Jesus was sinless and did not have to do this. Jesus was both a priest and an offering. He offered himself one time for all men and for all time. The Levitical priests were sinful men; however, Jesus Christ was a perfect man.
Jesus is a high priest who is sitting on the right hand of God. He is a minister of the true tabernacle which God made. Since every high priest offers gifts and sacrifices, Jesus as the great high priest must have something to offer. If he were on earth, he could not be a high priest because he did not descend from Levi, but from Judah. The Levitical priests served the tabernacle, which Moses built which is not the real thing. The tabernacle was merely a shadow (or type) of the real thing. Jesus has a superior priesthood. Jesus is a mediator of a better covenant. This new covenant has been founded on better promises.
Hebrews 7:1 NIV - This Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings and blessed him,
Chapter six closes with the affirmation from Psalm 110:4 that Jesus is a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek (6:20). Now the writer proceeds to prove Jesus is a high priest much superior to the high priests of the Levitical priesthood because he is of the order of Melchizedek. Melchizedek has previously been mentioned by the writer of Hebrews; however, the writer now tells more about Melchizedek and draws some conclusions. Melchizedek is only mentioned twice in the Old Testament. He is mentioned in Psalm 110:4 and Genesis 14:18-20 (Hebrews 5:6; 6:20). Melchizedek is both a king and priest. He is king of Salem which was the early name of Jerusalem. He was priest of God Most High. God Most High which means God the Supreme which is a designation of the one true and living God.
Melchizedek is a Gentile who worships and serves the one true God as high priest. He lived during the time of Abraham; therefore, this is approximately five hundred years before the law of Moses was given and the Levitical priesthood established. The incident described is given in detail in Genesis fourteen. Abraham had come back from rescuing Lot and defeating the four kings who had taken him and others captives. Melchizedek blessed Abraham. The meaning is the superior blesses the inferior.
king of … Salem: See Gen 14:18 and note. • also a priest of God Most High: Unlike the Hebrew kings, Melchizedek combined the offices of king and priest, thus foreshadowing the Messiah. • winning a great battle against the kings: See Gen 14:1–17.
Hebrews 7:2 NIV - and Abraham gave him a tenth of everything. First, the name Melchizedek means "king of righteousness"; then also, "king of Salem" means "king of peace."
Abraham recognized Melchizedek as a true priest of God and gave him a tithe. A tithe is a tenth part of all. The paying of tithes is seen long before Moses. In fact, most ancient pagan religions paid tithes. Abraham in paying the tithe to Melchizedek acknowledges the superiority of Melchizedek. Melchizedek is called King of righteousness because his name means, "My king is righteous" or "righteousness." Second, Melchizedek is called king of peace because Salem means peace. Thus he is a true type of the Messiah who will be a King-Priest.
Abraham was giving a tenth to the Lord by giving it to Melchizedek, his priest. This act anticipates the giving of tithes under the law (Lev 27:30, 32) and becomes a key point in the author’s argument (7:4). • Melchi- (Hebrew melek) means king. • -zedek (Hebrew tsedeq) means justice or righteousness. • Salem (Hebrew shalom) means peace. It was common for rabbis to bring out the theological significance of a biblical figure’s name by making associations between the name and other Hebrew terms.
Hebrews 7:3 NIV - Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life, resembling the Son of God, he remains a priest forever.
In the book of Genesis nothing is mentioned concerning the parents of Melchizedek, his genealogy, his birth, or his death. It must be realized that Melchizedek was a real person with parents. He was born. He died. However, the Holy Spirit chose not to reveal these things about his life for two reasons: (1) Unlike the Levitical priesthood which was determined by genealogy, his priesthood did not depend upon genealogy. (2) He was the only one in his order of priesthood in the Old Testament, so his priesthood abides continually. In these two ways he is like unto Jesus, the great high priest today. The comparison is to the eternal nature of Jesus. Jesus in the flesh had a mother and a genealogy which is recorded in Matthew and Luke. Jesus did not depend upon his genealogy for his priesthood. Jesus' priesthood continues throughout the Christian Age. All Christians are priests (I Peter 2:9); however, Jesus is the one and only high priest through out the Christian era. The author makes it clear that Melchizedek was made like Christ, not Christ like him. The anti-type is far superior to the type.
That we have no record of Melchizedek’s father or mother or any of his ancestors is significant in light of the ancestral requirement upon which the Levite priesthood was based. He appears from nowhere—it is as though there is no beginning or end to his life. The author is interpreting Gen 14:17–20 in light of Ps 110:4, which also understands Melchizedek as representing an eternal priesthood. • He remains a priest forever: This contrasts with a Levite, whose priesthood ended when he died (7:8, 23). • resembling the Son of God: Melchizedek was not an OT appearance of Jesus. Rather, his priesthood and that of Jesus had characteristics in common, in light of Ps 110:4.
Hebrews 7:4 NIV - Just think how great he was: Even the patriarch Abraham gave him a tenth of the plunder!
The author seeks to show the greatness of Melchizedek in order to prove the superiority of his priesthood over that of Aaron (Levitical). He does this by showing that Melchizedek was greater than Abraham. The Bible teaches Abraham was a great man, the friend of God and the father of the faithful. However, Abraham paid tithes to Melchizedek. The argument being the lesser pays tithes to the greater.
The point of this section (7:1–10) is to have the readers consider … how great this Melchizedek was by comparing him to the descendants of Levi. Melchizedek was so great that Abraham gave him a tenth of the spoils of battle (Gen 14:20).
Hebrews 7:5 NIV - Now the law requires the descendants of Levi who become priests to collect a tenth from the people--that is, from their fellow Israelites--even though they also are descended from Abraham.
The Levitical priests had the right to take the tithes from the people. According to Numbers 18:21-24, 26-28, it worked this way: The Levites took the tithes from the people. They in turn gave a tithe of the tithes to the priests. The point of this passage is that the priests received a tithe from the Israelites as commanded by the law of Moses; however, Abraham was not under this law. He gave voluntarily to Melchizedek because of his greatness as priest and king.
5–6a Collecting the tithe was a requirement and an honor for the priests under the law of Moses (Num 18:21–32). • from the rest of the people of Israel (literally from their brothers): The reference is to the people of Israel as a whole. • Although Melchizedek was not a descendant of Levi, he collected a tenth from Abraham, the ancestor of the Levites. This demonstrates Melchizedek’s eminence over both Abraham and his descendants, including the priests (7:8–10).
Hebrews 7:6 NIV - This man, however, did not trace his descent from Levi, yet he collected a tenth from Abraham and blessed him who had the promises.
Melchizedek, who is not a priest after the order of Aaron and of the tribe of Levi, received tithes from Abraham. This shows his priesthood is different and greater than the Levitical priesthood. Not only this, but Melchizedek blessed Abraham who had received the great promises (Genesis 12:3; 13:14-18).
6b–7 Melchizedek placed a blessing upon Abraham: Gen 14:19–20; this is an example of the kind of blessing that a superior would give a subordinate—e.g., a father would bless his son, and a priest would bless his people (Num 6:22–27; see “Blessing” at Gen 48:8–20, p. 113). The power to give a blessing demonstrates that Melchizedek is greater than Abraham.
Hebrews 7:7 NIV - And without doubt the lesser is blessed by the greater.
This proved beyond any doubt that Melchizedek was greater than Abraham.
Hebrews 7:8 NIV - In the one case, the tenth is collected by people who die; but in the other case, by him who is declared to be living.
Here men refers to the Levitical priesthood. There one refers to the priesthood of Melchizedek. The high priests under the Levitical priesthood were descendants of Aaron. They were born, became high priest, and ceased being high priest when they died. When they died, another took their place. However, the priesthood of Melchizedek was of just one man. The Bible never mentions his death; therefore, no one took his place. His priesthood did not end. Though this is not literally true of Melchizedek, it is true of Jesus Christ.
Melchizedek’s “immortality” (7:3) is one aspect of his superiority to the Levites: The Levites are men who die, but Melchizedek lives on.
Hebrews 7:9 NIV - One might even say that Levi, who collects the tenth, paid the tenth through Abraham,
Levi paid tithes representatively to Melchizedek being a descendant of Abraham. The writer uses this illustration to prove what he had said about Abraham and Melchizedek applied to the Levitical priesthood.
9–10 we might even say: The author recognizes that what he is about to say, that the Levites … paid a tithe to Melchizedek, is not literally true, since Levi wasn’t born yet. Rather, Abraham represented all his descendants in paying his tithe to Melchizedek. Levi was united with Abraham because the seed from which he came was in Abraham’s body. All the people issuing from Abraham were one with him. Thus, his act could be considered their act.
Hebrews 7:10 NIV - because when Melchizedek met Abraham, Levi was still in the body of his ancestor.
Levi was the great grandson of Abraham. He was not yet born when Abraham met Melchizedek. In the Bible an ancestor is frequently thought of as containing in himself all his descendants as in Genesis 25:23. Levi, of course, represents not just himself, he represents the Levitical priesthood which came into being many years after he died.
7:11–28 Having argued for Melchizedek’s superiority to the Levites (7:1–10), the author now argues that Jesus, our high priest like Melchizedek, is also superior to the Levitical priests of the old covenant.
Hebrews 7:11 NIV - If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood--and indeed the law given to the people established that priesthood--why was there still need for another priest to come, one in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron?
7:11–28 Having demonstrated Melchizedek’s superiority over the Levitical priests (Heb 7:1–10), the author establishes that Jesus’ priesthood is superior to Melchizedek’s. The theme of perfection frames the entire section; the author stresses the imperfection of the Levitical priests and the perfection of the Son of God (vv. 11, 28).
In verses eleven through nineteen the author seeks to show that both the Levitical priesthood and the law of Moses were done away with because they could not bring a man into a right relationship with God. However, Jesus becoming a priest after the order of Melchizedek brought them a new and better hope. Perfection in this verse means a right relationship with God. The author makes the argument that if the Levitical priesthood and the law of Moses could have brought men to a right relationship with God, there would have been no need for a priest after the order of Melchizedek. However, the law of Moses and the Levitical priesthood could not make one right with God as Paul points out in Galatians 3:21.
perfection The Greek word used here, teleiōsis, refers to the qualifications required to draw near to God.
another priest Refers to Jesus, who like Melchizedek did not belong to the lineage of Levi and Aaron (Heb 7:13–14).
Perfection in Hebrews does not mean flawless, but reaching a desired goal (see note on 5:9). The priesthood under the old covenant could not achieve all that God intended for a covenant relationship with his people. That is why God needed to establish a different priesthood. • the order of Levi and Aaron: Literally the order of Aaron.
Hebrews 7:12 NIV - For when the priesthood is changed, the law must be changed also.
The Levitical priesthood and the law of Moses are so intertwined that to do away with one did away with the other. The law could not function without the priesthood. The priesthood was given as part of the law of Moses. The priesthood was abolished when Christ became high priest after the order of Melchizedek. The law of Moses was abolished at the same time. This is the same point Paul makes in Galatians 3:24. This is a vital point and one which continues to be a stumbling block to many people in rightly understanding the Bible. Christians are not under the law of Moses, the Ten Commandments or the Levitical priesthood. These were abolished with the death of Jesus on the cross (Colossians 2:14-17). The new covenant (New Testament) with Christ as Redeemer is what man is under today. This means that one must go only to the New Testament to know how to worship God, serve God and how to be saved (have the right relationship with God). This verse affirms since the priesthood was changed, the law had to be changed also. The law of Moses was abolished at the cross of Jesus (Colossians 2:14-17).
change of the law The law was a temporary provision given to God’s people until the arrival of Christ (see Gal 3:24). Since the law was maintained by the Levitical priesthood, it must change now that a superior priest (Jesus) has arrived.
According to the law given to Moses, the appointed priests were descendants of Aaron (Exod 28:41–43; 29:9). The priesthood is changed because Jesus is now the High Priest. Thus, God himself had changed the law concerning priests.
Hebrews 7:13 NIV - He of whom these things are said belonged to a different tribe, and no one from that tribe has ever served at the altar.
To prove that the law and priesthood are no longer binding on God's people, the author states Jesus was not of the tribe of Levi, he was of the tribe of Judah; therefore Jesus could not be a priest according to the law of Moses.
these things are spoken Refers to Psa 110:4.
belongs to another tribe Jesus belonged to the tribe of Judah, not Levi (Heb 7:14). Judah had no role in the religious activities of the tabernacle or temple.
officiated at the altar That is, served as a priest.
13–14 Jesus belongs to a different tribe: Under the old covenant, priests came from the tribe of Levi, whereas Jesus was from the tribe of Judah.
Hebrews 7:14 NIV - For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah, and in regard to that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.
The early church was well versed in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:1-17). The early church knew Jesus was of the tribe of Judah. The law clearly stated that the priests would be of the tribe of Levi and the high priest of the family of Aaron. If Jesus is to be high priest, he must be under a different priesthood and a different law from the law of Moses. The priesthood of Jesus is higher and better than the Levitical priesthood.
descendant of Judah See Matt 1:3; Luke 3:33.
Hebrews 7:15 NIV - And what we have said is even more clear if another priest like Melchizedek appears,
The writer is making the argument that both the priesthood and the law of Moses have been abolished. This is evident due to Jesus Christ being a high priest after the order of Melchizedek that is a superior priesthood.
15–17 This change of how God appoints priests (7:11–14) has been made very clear by the appointment of Jesus as a different priest. He, like Melchizedek, is a priest forever: Jesus’ resurrection from the dead shows that he has the power of a life that cannot be destroyed. Because his priesthood in the order of Melchizedek is superior to that of the Levites (7:1–10), he supersedes them as priest.
Hebrews 7:16 NIV - one who has become a priest not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life.
The superiority of the priesthood of Jesus over the Levitical priesthood is seen here. The Levitical priesthood was ordained by law and depended upon physical descent of the priest, the temple, animal sacrifices and other externals. The priest under the law of Moses was destined to be a priest because of who his parents were. However, Christ is a high priest forever by the power of an endless life. There were eighty-three high priests during the Mosaic law. These high priests held the office of high priest an average of sixteen years each. Under the new priesthood, there is but one high priest, Jesus Christ, who is priest forever. The priesthood of Jesus is far superior to the Levitical priesthood.
law of physical requirement Refers to the biological descent of the Levitical priesthood.
power of an indestructible life Jesus defeated death through His resurrection (1 Cor 15:55; Col 2:12). His priesthood, like Melchizedek’s, endures forever (Heb 7:17).
Hebrews 7:17 NIV - For it is declared: "You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek."
God said of Jesus in Psalm 110:4 that he was a priest after the order of Melchizedek. As seen in the comments on verse sixteen, Jesus is to be a priest forever.
You are a priest forever Quotes Psa 110:4. The author emphasizes the eternal nature of Jesus’ priesthood (compare Heb 5:6; 6:20; 7:21).
Hebrews 7:18 NIV - The former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless
The law of Moses was done away with because it could not reconcile men to God (Galatians 3:23, 24). Disannul means to do away with. The foregoing commandment is the law of Moses.
preceding commandment Refers to ordinances about the Levitical priesthood. The priestly functions of the ot are no longer necessary because of Jesus’ priestly work (10:1–4). However, Hebrews does not claim that the ot no longer has relevance for God’s people (compare Rom 15:4 and note).
set aside The greek term Athetēsis refers to the annulment or cancellation of something—in this case the former commandment. The author of Hebrews reasons that God has the right to annul what He has instituted.
weakness Recalls the earlier descriptions of Israel’s priests as weak (Heb 5:2; 7:28).
uselessness The priesthood was only able to bring about an external cleansing—not purify people entirely, forever, from their sins (9:9–10, 13, 23; 10:14).
The old requirement about the priesthood was membership in the family of Aaron (see Exod 28:41–43). • set aside: See 7:15–17. • because it was weak and useless: As explained in the verses that follow (7:19–28).
7:19–28 The weakness of the priesthood under the old covenant is highlighted in that those priests died (thus discontinuing their office) and were themselves sinful. In contrast, Jesus, the new High Priest, never sinned and will never die, making him a more effective and permanent High Priest.
Hebrews 7:19 NIV - (for the law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.
Because the law of Moses could not save men, it was taken out of the way. Christians have a better hope in Jesus. Jesus can save men and bring them into a right relationship with God. The law of Moses identified sin and showed the penalty of sin; however, the law of Moses could not justify a man, or bring him back into a right relationship with God. The law of Moses showed the need of a Savior. If the law of Moses could have brought men into a right relationship with God, there would have been no need for Jesus and his death. Since the law of Moses could not save men, it was taken out of the way. Men are not under the law of Moses today. Men today are under grace and truth (John 1:17).
the law never made anything perfect: The law never accomplished what God planned to accomplish through the superior high priesthood of Jesus—namely, completely removing sin and guaranteeing eternal salvation. This gives believers confidence in a better hope in relationship with God. We can draw near to God without fearing condemnation.
Hebrews 7:20 NIV - And it was not without an oath! Others became priests without any oath,
The priesthood of Christ is superior to the priesthood under the law of Moses because it was given with an oath while the Levitical priesthood was not given with an oath. The significance of the oath is explained in the next verse.
oath Refers to the opening line of Psa 110:4, quoted in Heb 7:21.
20–21 This new system refers to God’s way of appointing a priest. • God’s solemn oath is expressed in the quote from Ps 110:4.
Hebrews 7:21 NIV - but he became a priest with an oath when God said to him: "The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind: 'You are a priest forever.' "
The Levitical priesthood was made without an oath from God. The priesthood of Jesus was made with an oath. God used an oath to teach he would never change the priesthood of Jesus. Therefore, the priesthood of Jesus is superior to the Levitical priesthood which did not have the oath or an eternal priesthood.
One might wonder why did the eternal God need to swear with an oath? God did this for man's benefit when he wanted to emphasize a decision which he would not change his mind. Some examples are: (1) Abraham (Genesis 22:16-18); (2) To rebellious Israel that they would not enter into Canaan (Deuteronomy 1:34-35); (3) To Moses (Deuteronomy 4:21) and (4) to David (Psalm 89:4). The oath shows that God will never change his mind about the priesthood of Christ. The priesthood of Jesus will continue until his Second Coming. There will be no change of law in the Christian age. The Christian Age will continue until the Second Coming of Jesus when time will be no more.
Hebrews 7:22 NIV - Because of this oath, Jesus has become the guarantor of a better covenant.
The sentence started in verse twenty ends with this verse. Surety means guarantor. Jesus is the guarantee of a better covenant in the Christian age. The term covenant is introduced for the first time in the epistle of Hebrews, and will be elaborated on in later chapters. A covenant is an agreement between two parties. The law of Moses is called the old covenant. The old covenant (Old Testament) has been taken out of the way at the cross. Today men are under the new covenant. It will continue until the end of time. Jesus is the guarantor that the promises and warnings of the new covenant will be carried out. Jesus guarantees the new covenant by his sinless life, his death upon the cross, his resurrection from the dead, his ascension into heaven and his work as high priest after the order of Melchizedek. The new covenant is a better covenant than the old covenant just as his priesthood is better than the Levitical priesthood. Surety is used only here in the New Testament.
guarantee The Greek word used here, engyos, was a legal term within the Graeco-Roman world, referring to someone who assumed an obligation in place of another. This expression parallels 8:6, which describes Jesus as the mediator of a better covenant. God’s oath stands behind the appointment of Jesus as high priest (v. 21).
better covenant See 8:8–12; 9:11–14, 23–26.
Legally, the one who guarantees (literally the guarantee or the guarantor) refers to the person who bears the risk of another person’s investment or debt. Because of God’s oath, Jesus’ priesthood is unassailable, so our covenant relationship with God is secure. Having Jesus as the guarantor makes the new covenant better.
Hebrews 7:23 NIV - Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office;
The high priests under the old covenant (the law of Moses) were replaced at their death. There was a succession of priests from the first high priest, Aaron, until the last high priest. There were eighty-three high priests from Aaron to the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70.
23–24 Of necessity, the old covenant had a succession of many priests because each of them died. In contrast, Jesus’ priesthood lasts forever (literally is permanent): This term refers to something that cannot be changed, such as the sun’s daily trek through the sky or the constant turning of the seasons.
Hebrews 7:24 NIV - but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood.
The argument in verses 23 and 24 is that the priesthood of Jesus is superior to the Levitical priesthood because they had many priests; however, Jesus is the one and only high priest in the Christian Age because he lives forever and his priesthood is unchangeable.
he continues forever See 1:8, 11–12.
Hebrews 7:25 NIV - Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
Uttermost may be translated completely or for all time. In this context for all time fits better. This means Jesus is Savior throughout the Christian Age. Jesus died once for all and remains the Savior of mankind for all time. Not only does Jesus save, he is at the right hand of God making intercession for man (Romans 8:33). John chapter seventeen is a good example of what intercession means. Intercession means Jesus pleads man's case for him. Intercession is all Christ does for man in his office of high priest while at the right hand of God. He not only saves men by his sacrifice on the cross, but he continues to work in their behalf after they become Christians.
completely The Greek terminology here can refer either to the time or extent of salvation. Both senses are possible: Jesus offered Himself once for all (v. 27), and believers will be made perfect in conformity with Jesus (5:9; 12:23).
lives in order to intercede Christ intercedes at the right hand of God (1:3; Rom 8:33–34; compare Isa 53:12).
able, once and forever, to save (or able to save completely): Since Jesus lives forever, the salvation he brings also lasts forever. To draw near to an eternal God, we need an eternal priest. • Jesus will intercede or appeal to God for us as our High Priest of the new covenant, and his intercession is never-ending (see 9:11–28; 10:21–22; Rom 8:31–34).
Hebrews 7:26 NIV - Such a high priest truly meets our need--one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.
Jesus as the Son of God had the right to enter and live in heaven; however, for Jesus to be the high priest for man, he had to live on the earth in the form of man so that he could represent them to God. Jesus did this. These attributes listed in this verse were characteristic of him. Jesus was holy. Holy was all the characteristics of Jesus which made him the Son of God. He was a man, but he was different from all other men being the divine Son of God. He was everything God wanted him to be. When one obeys all the commands of God in the right attitude and spirit, he will be exactly what God wants him to be. Jesus was guileless (harmless). Guileless means Jesus was without ill will or malice toward anyone. He always had the right attitude toward everyone and in all he did. He was kind, gracious and benevolent to all. Jesus was undefiled. Undefiled means though he was tempted in all points like men are; however, he was completely without sin. Jesus always did what God wanted him to do. He never violated God's law in any way. He was without spot and blemished. Although he lived among sinners, he was separate from sinners by his sinless life. His sinless life allowed him to be the perfect sacrifice for man, and also allowed him into the presence of God as man's great high priest. Jesus was made higher than the heavens. This refers to his ascension into the highest heaven where God dwells. In this sense also, he is separate from sinners. In heaven Jesus is serving as high priests on the behalf of Christians.
holy, innocent, undefiled The qualities listed here enable Jesus to administer a better sacrifice (9:23). He is without sin (4:15; compare Isa 52:15; 53:6)—in contrast to the Levitical priests, who had to follow strict procedures to maintain ritual purity (Lev 21:11, 17).
exalted above the heavens See Heb 4:14; 8:1.
26–27 Jesus is unstained by sin and set apart from sinners (cp. 4:15), which makes him superior to the priests of the old covenant, who had to deal with their own sins as well as those of the people (see also 5:1–3). • has been given the highest place of honor in heaven (or has been exalted higher than the heavens): This is an affirmation of his uniqueness as High Priest (cp. 2:9; 5:9; Phil 2:5–11). • once for all: This does not mean once for all people but rather once, never to be repeated.
Hebrews 7:27 NIV - Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.
Before the high priest of the Levitical priesthood offered the sacrifice, he had to offer a sacrifice for his sins because he was a sinner also. However, Jesus was sinless and did not have to offer a sacrifice for himself, rather, he offered himself as the sacrifice for the sins of mankind. Since Jesus had lived a sinless life, he was the propitiation (that which satisfies the justice of God) for man's sins once for all time. He made his sacrifice once for all time and for all men. He does not have to make this sacrifice daily as the Levitical priests did. The instructions for the high priest to offer a sacrifice for his sins before the sacrifice for the people was in the instructions for the day of atonement once a year (Leviticus 16:6). There was no requirement for the high priest to do this every day. However, any time a priest had sinned, before he could offer a sacrifice for the people he had to offer a sacrifice for himself (Leviticus 4:3). The author combined the two thoughts.
former high priests Refers to the priestly line associated with Aaron and the Levites.
once for all Refers not only to the singular occasion of Jesus’ sacrifice, but also to its unrepeatable nature (6:6). He was able to make an ultimate sacrifice, in the sense that no further sacrifices are necessary.
offered up himself Jesus did not need to make sacrifice in order to absolve His own sin (because He is without sin; 4:15; 7:26). Rather, He gave Himself for the sake of the world (compare Isa 53:10 and note).
Hebrews 7:28 NIV - For the law appoints as high priests men in all their weakness; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever.
Under the law of Moses men were appointed high priest that were sinners and had to offer sacrifices for their sins first. However, with the new covenant came a new and better priesthood confirmed with an oath that it would never change. The high priest under the new covenant is the Son of God, Jesus Christ. Jesus had been made perfect (qualified completely) for all time by his suffering (Hebrews 2:10) and his obedience (Hebrews 5:8-9). This ends the discussion of the order of Christ's priesthood. The author has shown Christ's priesthood is different from the Levitical priesthood and superior to it. He will further discuss the priesthood of Christ, but this is the last mention of Melchizedek.
perfect forever Refers to the exalted and glorified Jesus (Heb 7:26).
This verse echoes 5:1–3 and sums up the entire discussion of Christ’s appointment as High Priest (5:1–10; 7:1–28). • Limited by human weakness refers primarily to human sinfulness and mortality (5:2–3; 7:18, 23–27). • God appointed his Son with an oath: See Ps 110:4, the key OT passage behind 7:11–28. • perfect … forever: The words High Priest are not in the Greek text but are implied in the context. • In Hebrews, the term perfect means complete or mature (see 2:10; 5:9; 7:11; 9:9–11); the Son, through his sacrificial death and resurrection, has become completely qualified to serve as our eternal High Priest, and his priesthood lasts forever.
- God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
- We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
- Chapter 7 picks up where 5:10 left off. From verses 1-10, what do we know about Melchizedek (see also Genesis 14:17-20)? How did Abraham regard him?
- What is the main point in the comparison between Melchizedek and Abraham? How does Abraham's tithe and the blessing of Melchizedek demonstrate the greatness of Melchizedek? How is his priesthood superior to that which descended from Levi and Aaron (v. 11)? Why is another type of priesthood needed?
- In what ways is Jesus like the Melchizedek portrayed here (vv. 12-17)?
- Why was the law set aside (vv. 18-19)? In what sense had it failed? How does the argument in verse 18 parallel that in verse 11? What are the two features of the Jewish religious system that have been superseded?
- In what ways is Jesus a better priest than those under the Jewish system (vv. 20-28)? What is the relationship between the law and the oath? Why is the oath better?
- The author was showing Jesus' superiority over the priests to Jews who were tempted to go back to their old ways. What are some of the "old ways" that tempt you to turn from Jesus? How is Jesus superior to those old ways in your life?
- What difference does Jesus' "once-for-all" sacrifice make to you in terms of your security with God? Your self-image? Your desire to follow Christ?
- I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
- What transformative move needs to be made?
- You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.
Take Away Challenges
What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this passage? How will you apply it to your life this week?
Whom do you know who needs to hear this?
What is God bringing to your attention in this discussion? What beliefs, thoughts, or actions need to be addressed or changed?
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