Hebrews 10:21: Jesus as "great priest"?
How does Hebrews 10:21 emphasize Jesus' role as "a great priest" for believers?

Setting the Scene

Hebrews 10:19-22 gathers up the core of the letter: Christ’s finished work opens the way into God’s presence. Verse 21 sits right in the middle, anchoring everything to Jesus’ priestly office.


The Verse in Focus

“and since we have a great priest over the house of God,” (Hebrews 10:21)


What Makes Him “Great”

• Unique Person – fully God, fully man (John 1:14; Colossians 2:9)

• Unique Sacrifice – offered Himself once for all (Hebrews 9:26)

• Permanent Office – “He lives forever,” so His priesthood never ends (Hebrews 7:24)

• Heavenly Position – seated at God’s right hand, ruling and interceding (Hebrews 8:1)


Priest “Over the House of God”

• “House” points to God’s covenant people (Hebrews 3:6)

• As Head, Jesus guarantees our acceptance—He oversees worship, guards purity, supplies grace

• His authority means believers no longer approach through earthly priests or temple rituals


Why This Matters to Believers

1. Confidence in Access

– “Let us draw near” (Hebrews 10:22). His blood removes every barrier.

2. Ongoing Intercession

– “He always lives to intercede” (Hebrews 7:25). You are never unrepresented before the Father.

3. Complete Salvation

– He “is able to save completely” (Hebrews 7:25). Nothing left for us to finish.

4. Steadfast Hope

– Because the Priest is enthroned, our hope is anchored “behind the curtain” (Hebrews 6:19-20).


Supporting Passages

Hebrews 4:14 – “we have a great high priest… let us hold firmly”

Hebrews 7:24-25 – permanent priesthood, complete salvation

Hebrews 9:24 – Christ appears “on our behalf in God’s presence”

1 Timothy 2:5 – “one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus”


Living the Truth Today

• Approach God boldly; guilt no longer defines the relationship.

• Rest in His continual advocacy when weakness surfaces.

• Worship with gratitude, knowing the Great Priest perfects your praise.

• Stand firm in trials—He has secured your future, and He reigns over His house now.

What is the meaning of Hebrews 10:21?
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