How can we serve as "priests of the LORD" in our daily lives? Our Calling Defined “But you will be called priests of the LORD; they will be named ministers of our God; you will feed on the wealth of nations, and in their glory you will boast.” — Isaiah 61:6 Priesthood Fulfilled in Christ • 1 Peter 2:9—“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation…” • Revelation 1:5-6—Jesus “has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father.” • Through the cross our Great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14) opens priestly access for every believer. What Priests Do—Then and Now • Represent God to people (Numbers 6:22-27) • Represent people to God (Exodus 28:29) • Offer sacrifices and maintain holiness (Leviticus 1–10) • Teach God’s word (Malachi 2:7) Daily Expressions of Our Priesthood Represent God to People • Speak His truth with grace—Colossians 4:6 • Demonstrate His character at work, school, home—Matthew 5:16 Represent People to God • Intercede consistently—1 Timothy 2:1 • Carry others’ burdens in prayer—Galatians 6:2 Offer Spiritual Sacrifices • Praise: “Through Jesus, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15). • Good works and generosity: “Do not neglect to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:16). • Self-surrender: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). Teach and Guard Truth • Share Scripture naturally in conversation—Deuteronomy 6:6-7. • Disciple younger believers—2 Timothy 2:2. • Stand firm against error—Jude 3. Maintain Holiness • Commit to moral purity—1 Thessalonians 4:3-5. • Confess and forsake sin quickly—1 John 1:9. • Keep distinct yet engaged—John 17:15-18. Key Spiritual Practices • Daily Bible intake for priestly wisdom (Psalm 119:105). • Regular fasting to heighten dependence (Matthew 6:16-18). • Corporate worship, strengthening the “holy nation” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Fuel for Faithful Service • The Holy Spirit equips us—Acts 1:8. • Christ intercedes for us—Hebrews 7:25. • The Father delights in our service—Zephaniah 3:17. Encouragement to Persevere “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” — 1 Corinthians 15:58 |
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