How does Leviticus 6:22 connect to Christ's priestly role in Hebrews? Setting the Scene in Leviticus • Leviticus 6:22: “The priest who is anointed to succeed him from his sons shall prepare it; it is the LORD’s perpetual portion.” • Context: a daily grain offering baked on the bronze altar, consumed entirely by the priesthood. • Key ideas embedded: — Anointed priest (singular) — Succession “from his sons” — Perpetual (ongoing, uninterrupted) portion to the LORD Foreshadowing a Unique Priest • While many priests followed Aaron, the verse hints at ONE continually anointed figure who embodies the “perpetual” role. • The burnt-up grain represents complete consecration—anticipating a priest whose whole life would be offered without remainder (Hebrews 7:26-27). Hebrews Picks Up the Thread • Hebrews 7:23-24: “Now there have been many priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office. But because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood.” • Connection points: — Perpetual portion (Leviticus 6:22) → Permanent priesthood (Hebrews 7:24) — Anointed successor “from his sons” → Son of God appointed “forever” (Hebrews 5:5-6; Psalm 110:4) — Daily preparation of the offering → Jesus’ once-for-all offering that never needs repetition (Hebrews 10:11-14) Why the Daily Grain Offering Matters • Grain (unbloody) stresses perfect obedience, not just atonement. • Priest alone handled it, underscoring exclusivity—mirrored when Jesus alone mediates (1 Timothy 2:5). • “Perpetual” teaching trained Israel to look for an unending priestly ministry—fulfilled when Christ “always lives to intercede” (Hebrews 7:25). Contrast and Fulfillment • Old order: many sons of Aaron, many offerings, continual fire. • New order: one Son, one self-offering, eternal effect. • Result: believers now “draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:22), something impossible under the repetitive Levitical system. Takeaway Truths • Leviticus 6:22 is more than ritual detail; it plants the seed of an unbroken, singular priesthood. • Hebrews shows Jesus as the fully anointed, perpetual Priest who fulfills and surpasses Aaronic patterns. • Because His priesthood is everlasting, His finished work guarantees continual access and unshakable confidence for all who trust Him. |
    |