In what ways should Jesus' priesthood influence our daily worship and prayer life? The Priest Forever: A Secure Foundation Hebrews 5:6 — “And He says in another passage: ‘You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.’” • Jesus’ priesthood never ends; nothing can displace Him from this role. • Because His office is permanent, our confidence in coming to God can be permanent as well. Daily Worship: Drawing Near Boldly Hebrews 4:14-16; 10:19-22 • Hold firmly to faith during gatherings, knowing the One we worship has already “passed through the heavens.” • Approach the throne of grace “with confidence,” whether in a church service or alone with an open Bible. • Let mercy and grace shape songs, sermons, and personal praise—everything centers on the High Priest who sympathizes with our weakness yet remains sinless. • With consciences “sprinkled clean,” we refuse half-hearted worship and press in with sincerity. Prayer: Confidence and Expectation Hebrews 7:24-25; Romans 8:34; 1 John 2:1 • Pray knowing Jesus “always lives to intercede.” • Expect complete salvation—including daily deliverance from temptation—because His intercession never lapses. • Bring every need, sorrow, and joy; the Advocate already presents them before the Father. • End your petitions trusting His perfect representation rather than your eloquence or emotions. Worship as Offering: Following the Order of Melchizedek Genesis 14:18-20; Hebrews 13:15-16 • Melchizedek brought bread and wine—foreshadowing Communion. Center corporate worship on the table of the Lord. • Offer “a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name.” • Pair verbal praise with tangible generosity: “Do not forget to do good and to share,” for such sacrifices please God. • Like Abraham, respond to the Priest-King’s blessing with honoring gifts and wholehearted allegiance. Persevering by His Priesthood • Anchor hope “behind the veil, where Jesus our forerunner has entered.” • When weariness hits, rehearse the unchanging nature of His office—He remains priest whether we feel strong or weak. • Let that certainty propel faithful attendance, steady Bible engagement, and ongoing repentance. • Finish each day assured: the same Priest who began the good work will carry it to completion. |
    |