But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, He sat down at the right hand of God. – Hebrews 10:12
The principle of mediation was basic for Israel. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE
The priests of the Old Testament nation of Israel were the agents of mediation through whom God was to be approached. God could not be approached lightly nor be approached directly. And without the shedding of blood, there was no forgiveness of sins. The priests were the foreshadowing of Christ, God’s final and perfect Mediator for all time.
Access to God is impossible unless sin is dealt with. But Christ, through His atoning sacrifice for the sins of the world, became the Passover Lamb. He provided open access to God the Father, interceding on behalf of all believers. Never again would a sacrifice for sin be required. Christ, by sacrificing Himself made us perfect (v14). He removed everything that hindered our approach to God.
With Christ, a new priesthood came into being, that of all believers everywhere. 1 Peter 2:5 says, believers like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God. New Testament priesthood do not offer sacrifice for sins but offer the sacrifice of praise and thankful service to God, interceding on behalf of others.
Christians are to set a Christ-like example to the church in fulfilling their priestly duties. We are to be faithful in our worship of our Saviour, our High Priest. We are to serve Him by strengthening our vision of God in each other and also among those who do not know Him. We are to be intercessors for our fellow beings.
Who needs your intercession today?
Lord, help me offer you a continual sacrifice of praise, I pray.
Extended Reading – Hebrews 7-10
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I enjoyed your perspective on this topic. Looking forward to more content.