What responsibilities come with being made "priests to His God and Father"? Royal Priests by Divine Appointment “and has made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father—to Him be the glory and power forever and ever! Amen.” (Revelation 1:6) To be named “priests” is not honorary; Scripture treats it as an active vocation with real-time duties toward God and neighbor. Core Responsibilities of New-Covenant Priests • Represent God’s character to the world – “You are… a royal priesthood, a holy nation… so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him” (1 Peter 2:9). – Our words and conduct must mirror His holiness and mercy. • Draw near in devoted worship – “Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus… let us draw near” (Hebrews 10:19-22). – Regular, wholehearted praise, both privately and corporately, is priestly service. • Offer spiritual sacrifices daily – “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship” (Romans 12:1). – Choices, time, resources, and obedience are placed on the altar. • Maintain lives of practical holiness – “As obedient children, do not conform to the passions of your former ignorance” (1 Peter 1:14-16). – Priestly garments are now righteous deeds; purity matters. • Guard and teach God’s truth – “For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth” (Malachi 2:7). – Speak Scripture accurately, disciple others, correct error in love. • Intercede for people before God – “I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for all people” (1 Timothy 2:1). – Stand in the gap for families, church, nation, and world. • Proclaim reconciliation through Christ – “He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore ambassadors for Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:19-20). – Share the gospel openly, urging repentance and faith. • Serve within the kingdom community – “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others” (1 Peter 4:10). – Hospitality, generosity, and mutual care display priestly stewardship. Why These Duties Matter • They honor “His God and Father,” keeping the focus upward rather than on personal glory. • They validate the reality of Christ’s kingdom on earth now, previewing its fullness to come. • They align believers with their High Priest, Jesus, whose perfect ministry empowers ours (Hebrews 7:25-27). Living It Out The title “priest” is conferred at conversion; the responsibilities unfold daily. By worshiping fervently, walking in holiness, interceding faithfully, and declaring God’s greatness, believers fulfill the calling embedded in Revelation 1:6—bringing glory and power to Him forever. |
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