How can we apply Christ's priesthood to our daily spiritual lives? Christ’s Superior Priesthood in One Sentence “But when Christ came as high priest of the good things to come, He entered the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made by hands, that is, not of this creation.” – Hebrews 9:11 Why His Priesthood Matters Right Now • He ministers in heaven’s “greater and more perfect tabernacle,” not an earthly copy (Hebrews 8:1–2). • His offering was once for all (Hebrews 9:12), so no daily animal sacrifices remain. • He always lives to intercede for us (Hebrews 7:25), guaranteeing continual access. Living in the Reality of His Finished Work • Rest from self-effort: trust that the debt for every sin—past, present, future—was paid at the cross. • Reject condemnation: when the Accuser reminds you of failure, answer with Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice (Romans 8:33–34). • Practice confession, not penance: agree with God about sin (1 John 1:9) and move forward cleansed. Drawing Near with Confidence • Use your open invitation: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16). • Schedule regular “tabernacle time” each day—moments of unhurried prayer, Bible meditation, and worship. • Pray big: Christ’s intercession means nothing is too hard or too small (John 16:23–24). Keeping a Clean Conscience Heb 9:14 says His blood “purifies our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.” • Ask for Spirit-led conviction quickly; keep short accounts. • Replace “dead works” (guilt-driven activity) with grateful service. • Guard inputs: what you watch, read, and ponder affects conscience sensitivity (Philippians 4:8). Offering Daily Spiritual Sacrifices 1 Peter 2:5 calls believers “a holy priesthood.” Our offerings now include: • Praise – continual “fruit of lips that confess His name” (Hebrews 13:15). • Good works & generosity – “With such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:16). • Ourselves – present your body “as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). Practical tip: start each morning, “Lord, every task today is Yours; use me as Your priest.” Representing Him Everywhere • Carry His presence into workplaces, schools, neighborhoods; priests stood between God and people. • Speak blessing: words seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:6). • Pray on the spot when needs arise; you are authorized to minister reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18–20). Living for the “Good Things to Come” • Christ’s priesthood secures an inheritance that “will never fade” (1 Peter 1:4). • Hope fuels perseverance; hardships are temporary staging grounds for glory (Romans 8:18). • Keep eternity in view: daily choices gain weight when seen against everlasting joy. In One Simple Checklist □ Rest in the once-for-all sacrifice. □ Approach the throne confidently and often. □ Keep conscience clear through quick confession. □ Offer praise, good deeds, and yourself as sacrifices. □ Represent Christ as His priest in every sphere. □ Anchor hope in the better things still ahead. Because our High Priest has already entered the perfect sanctuary, you can enter each new day assured, cleansed, and ready to serve the living God. |
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