What is the meaning of Hebrews 7:21? But Jesus became a priest - “But Jesus became a priest” (Hebrews 7:21) contrasts Him with the sons of Levi, who “became priests without an oath” (v. 20). - His priesthood rests not on lineage but on divine designation. Hebrews 7:16 affirms He was appointed “on the basis of the power of an indestructible life.” - Unlike the many priests who “were prevented by death from continuing in office” (v. 23), Jesus stands as “a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens” (Hebrews 4:14). with an oath - God’s oath elevates Christ’s priesthood above every human arrangement. - Where the law named Aaron’s sons without swearing, God seals Jesus’ role with His own word, echoing the divine promise to Abraham “By Myself I have sworn” (Genesis 22:16). - Hebrews 6:17–18 notes that two unchangeable things—God’s promise and His oath—make strong consolation for believers. by the One who said to Him - The Father personally addresses the Son, underscoring their distinct persons yet perfect unity (John 5:19–23). - At Jesus’ baptism the Father declared, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17), confirming heavenly endorsement of every aspect of His mission—including His eternal priesthood. The Lord has sworn - Psalm 110:4, quoted here, is the cornerstone: “The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind.” - Divine swearing signals absolute certainty. Titus 1:2 affirms God “who cannot lie,” so His sworn word is the believer’s sure foundation. and will not change His mind - God’s immutability guarantees permanence. Numbers 23:19 states He “does not change His mind,” and Malachi 3:6 adds, “I, the LORD, do not change.” - Because the oath can never be revoked, neither can the office it secures. You are a priest forever - The term “forever” means endless duration, fulfilled because Jesus “lives forever” (Hebrews 7:24). - His eternal advocacy ensures that “He is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him” (v. 25). - Revelation 1:18 portrays the risen Christ declaring, “I am alive forevermore,” matching Psalm 110:4’s promise of an everlasting priesthood. summary Hebrews 7:21 teaches that Jesus’ priesthood is uniquely established by God’s irrevocable oath. Unlike the temporary, hereditary Levitical order, His office rests on the Father’s sworn, unchangeable word and endures forever. Believers therefore have an eternal High Priest whose saving work and intercession can never fail. |
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