“Jesus the perfect High Priest”
SERMON Title: Jesus the perfect High Priest
SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 4:14-5:10 (ESV)
Introduction:
In today’s sermon, we will see how the writer of Hebrews argues how Jesus is the Ultimate High Priest and how we should continue to move forward towards Jesus and not look back on our old ways.
Overview:
In order to understand and appreciate why Jesus is the better high priest, let’s first understand the qualifications of the high priest.
The High Priest was the mediator between God and His people. 1 For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. - Hebrews 5:1
The High Priest was a sympathizer to sinful people. 2 He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. 3 Because of this he is obligated to offer sacrifice for his own sins just as he does for those of the people. - Hebrews 5:2-3
The High Priest was appointed by God. 4 And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was. - Hebrews 5:4
The High Priests were still human and were not perfect in their roles as priests. However, Jesus was the perfect High Priest.
Jesus is appointed as the high priest according to the order of Melchizedek. 5 So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “You are my Son, today I have begotten you”; 6 as he says also in another place, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.” - Hebrews 5:5-6
Melchizedek was a king and a priest of the Most High God mentioned in Genesis 14:17-20. While priests were appointed after the order of Aaron, Jesus was appointed after the order of Melchizedek as a priest and king.
Jesus is the perfect sympathizer who understands what we go through. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. - Hebrews 4:15
7 In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. 8 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. - Hebrews 5:7-8
Jesus is able to sympathize with our experiences with temptations, but he was able to overcome all temptations. He is a high priest who deals gently with us.
Jesus is the source of eternal salvation. 9 And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, 10 being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek. - Hebrews 5:9-10
Jesus was designated by God to be our high priest and is the perfect mediator between us and God. Through Jesus alone we are able to have a relationship with God.
Application:
16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. - Hebrews 4:16
If you are struggling with difficulties of life, doubts in your faith, or any other hardship, you can know with confidence that the throne of grace, the throne of Jesus, will provide you with joy and peace.
Sermon reflection questions:
How is Jesus’s role as the superior High Priest significant to the Gospel and to you?
What are ways you’ll remind yourself this week that Jesus is the high priest?
