How can we apply the concept of eternal priesthood to our daily faith walk? Setting the Scene: The Forever Priest in Hebrews 7:3 “Without father, without mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life, resembling the Son of God, he remains a priest forever.” Melchizedek’s mysterious description points beyond himself to Jesus, whose priesthood never ends. Because His ministry is eternal, its benefits reach into every moment of our lives right now. Seeing Jesus as Our Eternal High Priest • Hebrews 7:24-25—“Because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him.” • Hebrews 4:14-16—We hold fast to a High Priest who sympathizes; therefore we draw near with confidence. • 1 Timothy 2:5—One Mediator means a single, sure bridge between us and the Father. Everyday Access: Living Close to the Throne • Start each day conscious that the throne of grace is open (Hebrews 4:16). • Pray “in Jesus’ name” as more than a phrase; it is a literal reminder that His priestly work secures your audience with God. • When tempted, picture your Priest interceding (Romans 8:34) and run toward Him instead of away. Daily Assurance: Resting in a Permanent Covenant • His priesthood never expires, so your salvation is never in jeopardy (John 10:28-29). • Condemnation loses its voice because Christ’s intercession never pauses (Romans 8:1, 33-34). • Exchange anxious self-evaluation for confident gratitude: “He always lives to intercede for me.” Priestly Identity: Living Out a Holy Calling • 1 Peter 2:5, 9—We are “a royal priesthood.” • Reflect Him by: – Offering spiritual sacrifices of praise (Hebrews 13:15). – Interceding for others; lift names to the Father just as Jesus lifts yours. – Walking in holiness, because priests were set apart for God’s service (Leviticus 20:26). Practical Sacrifices: What We Offer Today • Words—continual thanksgiving and testimony (Psalm 34:1). • Works—doing good and sharing (Hebrews 13:16). • Wallet—generous giving mirrors the self-giving heart of our High Priest (2 Corinthians 8:9). • Will—yield daily decisions to His lordship (Romans 12:1-2). Perseverance Fueled by an Unending Priesthood • When fatigue hits, remember Hebrews 7:25—His saving work is “to the uttermost.” • Anchor discouraging seasons to His unchanging role (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). • View trials as opportunities for the Priest to display His sufficient grace (2 Corinthians 12:9). Hope Anchored Beyond Time • Revelation 1:13-18 shows the risen High Priest walking among His people, holding the keys of death and Hades. • Because His priesthood is eternal, so is our inheritance (1 Peter 1:3-5). Live today with tomorrow secured: the same Priest who intercedes now will welcome you then. |
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