How does Jesus' eternal priesthood provide assurance of our salvation and intercession? Jesus’ Eternal Priesthood Introduced • Hebrews 5:6: “And in another passage He says: ‘You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.’” • “Forever” is the key word—His priesthood never ends, never changes hands, never weakens. Forever Means Forever—Security in Salvation • Hebrews 7:24-25: “Because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him…” • Complete, not partial, salvation—nothing left unfinished or at risk. • John 10:28-29: His grip is unbreakable; no power can pry us from His hand or the Father’s. • Romans 8:1: “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Eternal priest = eternal verdict. An Unchanging Priest Ensures Continuous Intercession • Hebrews 7:25: “He always lives to intercede for them.” There is never a moment when He is off duty. • Romans 8:34: risen, enthroned, and actively pleading our case. • 1 John 2:1: our ever-present Advocate—when we stumble, His intercession bridges the gap. Qualified and Compassionate—He Understands Our Weakness • Hebrews 4:15-16: He sympathizes with every temptation we face; we can “approach the throne of grace with confidence.” • Hebrews 5:7-9: His own suffering equipped Him to represent us perfectly—no cold bureaucracy, only heartfelt advocacy. A Sacrifice Completed—No More Offerings Needed • Hebrews 9:11-12: “He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus securing eternal redemption.” • Hebrews 10:12, 14: One offering, “for all time,” perfecting us forever. Assurance rests not on our performance but on His finished work. Practical Encouragement—Living in the Confidence of His Priesthood • Hold fast your confession (Hebrews 4:14); doubts may whisper, but His priesthood shouts “secured.” • Draw near regularly—prayer is welcomed because the Priest has opened the way. • Rest from self-saving efforts; His once-for-all sacrifice covers yesterday’s sins, today’s struggles, tomorrow’s unknowns. • Stand firm in spiritual battle, knowing every accusation meets a living Advocate who answers with His blood and righteousness. |
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