Compare Numbers 18:7 with Hebrews 4:14. How do both highlight priestly roles?

Numbers 18:7: “But only you and your sons may serve as priests in connection with everything at the altar and inside the veil. I am giving you the service of the priesthood as a gift. But an outsider who comes near shall be put to death.”

Hebrews 4:14: “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess.”

Numbers 18:7 establishes the Old Testament pattern: the priesthood is a divine gift entrusted solely to Aaron and his sons. They alone may draw near to God’s presence behind the veil, mediating at the altar on behalf of Israel. trespass by an outsider brings death, underscoring the holiness of the office (see also Leviticus 10:1-3; 16:2).

Hebrews 4:14 elevates that theme by declaring Jesus as “the great high priest.” He has “passed through the heavens,” entering not a man-made sanctuary but the true Holy of Holies (Hebrews 9:24). His priesthood is likewise divinely appointed (Hebrews 5:5-6) yet infinitely superior: He is sinless (Hebrews 7:26) and eternal (Hebrews 7:23-25), so no replacement is needed.

Both passages highlight three shared truths. First, priestly service is God-given, never self-assumed (cf. Exodus 28:1; John 5:30). Second, only the authorized priest may approach God’s dwelling; unauthorized access means death or judgment. Third, the priest stands as mediator—Aaron for Israel, Christ for all who believe (1 Timothy 2:5).

Yet the distinctions show the fulfillment in Jesus. Aaron’s ministry was limited to the earthly tabernacle and required continuous sacrifices; Christ’s single offering secures eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:11-14). Aaron’s priesthood was hereditary and temporary; Christ’s is “after the order of Melchizedek,” unending and universal (Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 7:17). Aaron ministered behind a veil; Jesus tore that veil (Matthew 27:51), giving believers bold access to the Father (Hebrews 10:19-22).

Therefore Numbers 18:7 and Hebrews 4:14 together trace a straight line from the exclusive, sacred role of Aaron’s family to the perfect, everlasting priesthood of Jesus the Son of God. As Hebrews urges, our response is to “hold firmly” to Him with confidence and perseverance.