Sunday, 2 December 2018

Also there were many priests, because they were prevented by death from continuing. Hebrews 7:23

The author now provides another case for the supremacy of Christ’s priesthood over that of the Levitical priesthood. He first says, “Also there were many priests.” The Greek more literally reads, “Also, there have been made priests many.” There was a long succession of priests, each being consecrated to the priesthood in order to meet the needs of the requirements specified by the law.… Read the rest

Saturday, 1 December 2018

…by so much more Jesus has become a surety of a better covenant. Hebrews 7:22

The words here reflect a sentiment similar to Hebrews 1:4 –

“having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.”

The author is slowly and meticulously showing the superiority of the various aspects and ministries of Christ in comparison to those of other entities.… Read the rest

Friday, 30 November 2018

…(for they have become priests without an oath, but He with an oath by Him who said to Him:

“The Lord has sworn
And will not relent,
‘You are a priest forever
According to the order of Melchizedek’”), Hebrews 7:21

This verse is a parenthetical thought between verses 20 and 22, but all three are one complete sentence.… Read the rest

Thursday, 29 November 2018

And inasmuch as He was not made priest without an oath… Hebrews 7:20

Although it is getting ahead in thought, to understand what the author is saying in this verse, it must be understood what the thought is being contrasted to. That will be revealed in the next verse, but in order to properly identify what that is, a history lesson concerning the Levitical priesthood is necessary.… Read the rest

Wednesday, 28 November 2018

…for the law made nothing perfect; on the other hand, there is the bringing in of a better hope, through which we draw near to God. Hebrews 7:19

The word “for” once again builds on the continuing thought. The previous verse said, “the former commandment” was annulled “because of its weakness and unprofitableness.” That was a clear and precise statement.… Read the rest