How does Leviticus 16:32 emphasize the role of the anointed priest today? “The priest who is anointed and ordained to succeed his father as high priest shall make atonement and shall put on the holy linen garments.” What the Verse Declares • An anointed, ordained priest is required. • He succeeds his father—continuity of priestly ministry. • His task is to “make atonement.” • He performs the work while clothed in “holy linen garments” set apart for this purpose. Truths Highlighted for Today 1. God still insists on an anointed priest • Old-covenant shadows find completion in Christ: “We have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens—Jesus the Son of God” (Hebrews 4:14). • Only an anointed, divinely appointed mediator can bring people to God (Acts 4:12). 2. Atonement remains central • The high priest’s yearly work foreshadowed the once-for-all sacrifice at Calvary (Hebrews 9:11-12). • Believers rest in a finished atonement yet still proclaim its power (2 Corinthians 5:18-21). 3. Priestly succession is fulfilled and expanded • Jesus has an indestructible priesthood—“Because He lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood” (Hebrews 7:24). • In Him, the church becomes “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), continuing priestly service through worship, witness, and intercession. 4. Holiness of service is non-negotiable • The linen garments spoke of purity and humility; today the call is to “clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 13:14). • Servants of God minister in integrity, not in self-promotion (1 Timothy 3:1-7). Practical Takeaways • Trust completely in Jesus, the eternally anointed High Priest; no other mediator is needed. • Live out your priestly calling—represent God to people and people to God through prayer and gospel testimony. • Maintain personal holiness; sacred service demands clean garments. • Encourage church leaders to model Christlike priesthood: humble, sacrificial, and Scripture-saturated. |
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