What does Hebrews 7:18 imply about the effectiveness of the old commandment? Immediate Literary Context Verses 11–19 draw a contrast between the Levitical priesthood and Christ’s priesthood “according to the order of Melchizedek.” Verse 19 adds, “(for the Law perfected nothing), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.” The author’s argument climaxes in 8:13: “By speaking of a new covenant, He has made the first obsolete.” What Is the “Former Commandment”? Contextually it refers to the Mosaic legislation that established the Levitical priesthood (cf. 7:11–12). The entire cultic system—priests, sacrifices, temple ritual—comprised that “commandment.” Why It Was Declared Ineffective 1. Inability to Perfect the Worshiper Hebrews 10:1–4 observes that animal sacrifices “can never, by the same sacrifices offered year after year, make perfect those who draw near.” The Law diagnosed sin (Romans 3:20) but supplied no final cure. 2. Non-Perpetual Priesthood Levitical priests were “prevented by death from continuing in office” (Hebrews 7:23). Their mortality underscored the transitory nature of the system. 3. Symbolic, Preparatory Function Galatians 3:24: “So the Law became our guardian to lead us to Christ.” Its weakness was intentional; it pointed beyond itself. 4. External Orientation Hebrews 9:9–10 labels the regulations “external ordinances imposed until the time of reformation.” They regulated conduct but could not regenerate hearts (Jeremiah 31:33). Harmony with Old Testament Revelation • Psalm 40:6–8 and Hosea 6:6 anticipate that sacrifices alone are insufficient. • Jeremiah 31:31–34 foretells a New Covenant with internalized law and final forgiveness. The “ineffectiveness” theme therefore coheres with the Tanakh’s prophetic trajectory. Christ’s Superior Priesthood Jesus, “made perfect forever” (Hebrews 7:28), offers a “once for all” sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10). Because He possesses “the power of an indestructible life” (7:16), His mediation accomplishes what the old commandment could not—bringing believers directly to God (7:19). Common Misconceptions Addressed 1. “Weak” Means Morally Flawed No; Romans 7:12 calls the Law “holy, righteous, and good.” Its weakness lay in human fallenness and its own design limitations. 2. Grace Negates All Moral Obligation Hebrews condemns apostasy (10:26-31); moral obedience remains essential but flows from the indwelling Spirit rather than from ritual law-keeping. 3. Setting Aside Contradicts Jesus’ Words in Matthew 5:17 Christ “fulfilled” (plērōsai) the Law by accomplishing its types and prophecies, thereby bringing its sacrificial and priestly aspects to completion. Practical Implications • Assurance: A believer rests in a completed atonement, not repetitive rites. • Access: “Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22). • Worship: Emphasis shifts from temple ritual to Spirit-empowered service (Romans 12:1). • Evangelism: The Law’s inability underscores every person’s need for the Savior (Galatians 3:22). Summary Hebrews 7:18 declares the Mosaic priestly commandment annulled because, by divine design, it lacked power to perfect. Its sacrificial symbols pointed to the all-sufficient, eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ. The verse exposes the Law’s provisional nature while magnifying the gospel’s efficacy—inviting every reader to trust the resurrected High Priest who alone accomplishes salvation. |
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