How does Hebrews 5:1 connect to Jesus' role as our High Priest? Hebrews 5:1 at a Glance “For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed on behalf of men in matters relating to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.” (Hebrews 5:1) Taken from Among Men: Jesus’ Incarnation • The verse assumes a high priest must be “from among men.” • Jesus embraced real humanity—“The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14). • Hebrews 2:17 confirms the link: “He had to be made like His brothers in every way, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest.” • Because He shares our nature, His priesthood is not distant; it is personal and relatable. Appointed on Behalf of Men: Our Representation • High priests act “on behalf of men in matters relating to God.” • Jesus’ appointment came directly from the Father (Hebrews 5:5–6). • As the “one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5), He stands in for us, bringing our needs before the throne. Offering Gifts and Sacrifices: The Once-for-All Offering • Earthly priests repeatedly offered animal sacrifices. • Jesus offered a single, perfect sacrifice—Himself (Hebrews 7:27; 9:12). • His blood secures eternal redemption, accomplishing what repeated offerings never could (Hebrews 9:11-14). Merciful and Faithful High Priest: His Sympathetic Ministry • Because He is “from among men,” He “can sympathize with our weaknesses” (Hebrews 4:15). • We therefore “approach the throne of grace with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16). • He intercedes continually (Hebrews 7:25), ensuring that the benefits of His sacrifice are applied to us day by day. Bringing It All Together Hebrews 5:1 sketches the job description of any high priest: humanity, divine appointment, sacrificial service. Jesus fulfills every detail perfectly—fully human, divinely commissioned, and offering Himself once for all. Through Him we find a High Priest who truly understands us, effectively represents us, and eternally saves us. |
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