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. |