To Be One in Christ: We Have Treasure in the Jars of Clay -- the Series of Explanation and Analysis of Scripture (15) - 7
The Explanation and Analysis of the Verses in Chapter 7 of HEBREWS
It is edited and compiled under the guidance of Holy Spirit. All thanks, praises and glories be to God!
The Supremacy of Christ: (IV) Christ is greater than all the priests in the Old Testament (4:14-7:28)
Christ is the high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:1-18)
(1) Who is Melchizedek? (7:1-3)
A. king of Salem (7:1)
B. priest of God Most High (7:1)
C. blessed Abraham (7:1)
D. accepted a tenth of the plunder (7:2)
E. king of righteousness (7:2)
F. without genealogy (7:3)
G. like the Son of God (7:3)
(2) How Melchizedek is greater than Aaron (7:4-10)
A. regarding that Melchizedek accepted a tenth of the plunder from Abraham (7:4)
B. regarding that Melchizedek’s priesthood is different from that of the descendents of Levi (7:5-6)
C. regarding that Melchizedek blessed Abraham (7:6-7)
D. regarding the eternity of the priesthood of Melchizedek (7:8)
E. regarding that Melchizedek also accepted the tenth from Levi (7:9-10)
(3) Christ is the perfect high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:11-28)
A. The necessity that Christ is the high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:11-12)
B. The characteristics that Christ has as the high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:13-28)
a. He descended from the tribe of Judah, but not from the tribe of Levi (13-14)
b. He has become a priest not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life. (15-19)
c. He became a priest with an oath by God, but not without an oath (20-22)
d. He lives forever and has a permanent priesthood, but is not short-termed. (23-25)
e. He is holy, blameless and pure, without sin (26-28)
The Supremacy of Christ: (IV) Christ is greater than all the priests in the Old Testament (4:14-7:28)
In chapter 5, it has talked about how the priesthood of Aaron is as the typology of Christ -- our high priest. However, the verse of (5:3) let us know that Aaron is not the best typology of Christ -- our high priest. Not only Aaron has sins as the average people, but also he failed several times (Exo 32:1-6; 21-24; Num 12:1-3). Therefore, in the verses of (5:6-10), it is mentioned twice that Christ is the high priest in the order of Melchizedek. And in the verse of (5:11), it prepares to talk about the one who is more proper to be the typology of Christ as the high priest -- Melchizedek. However, before the author started to explain, he gave the warnings to the believers in the preceding verses first; now he formally starts this comparatively profound solid food in the Bible.
Who is Melchizedek? It is the difficult problem in this chapter. In the whole Bible, besides being mentioned for 10 times in this chapter (5:6,10,11; 6:20; 7:1,6,10,11,15,17), it is only mentioned in (Gen 14:18; Psa 110:4). However, the two verses in the Old Testament do not give us any detailed explanation to make us know clearly who Melchizedek is. Therefore, we will take this book as the main basis to study Melchizedek.
The scripture scholars have different interpretations on who Melchizedek is. Some consider him as an ancient priest and king -- the king of Salem who is a godly person and worships the true God; and the Bible takes him as the typology of Christ. However, there are some others, according to verse (7:3) in this book: “Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life, like the Son of God he remains a priest forever. ”, consider that he is Jesus Christ who appeared especially to Abraham to be the typology of Himself (see also (Joh 8:56), LORD once said: “Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.”)
Here, it is believed that Melchizedek is someone who is more worthy of being the typology of Christ than Aaron, but is absolutely not Christ Himself. It is because:
a. In the Old Testament, the appearances of Christ were all temporary, but did not show frequently as a king on earth. However, Melchizedek was the king of Jerusalem in ancient times.
b. The appearance of LORD was never used as the typology of LORD Himself, for if LORD Himself appears, that is not the typology any more.
c. Although Christ is with God before the beginning of the time, He became our high priest after He became the flesh, died and resurrected, but not before the beginning of time. In verse (5:5) of this book, when it talks about Christ as our high priest, it cited the words in the Psalms: “But God said to him, "You are my Son; today I have become your Father. " ” According to (Act 15:33-34), it can be told that this refers to the resurrection of Christ. If Melchizedek was Christ, Christ would have been our high priest before his birth, death and resurrection; then why Christ need to be born, die and rise up again?
d. If Melchizedek was Christ in the Old Testament as the priest, and Christ started the “permanent priesthood” from the Old Testament. Thus, the priesthood of Aaron would be unnecessary; for if the reality Himself and the real being has come, why need Aaron to be as the typology of Christ?
Therefore, Melchizedek should be the typology of Christ, but not Christ Himself. Since in the Bible, the accounts of Melchizedek in this chapter are most detailed, the safest answer should be: Melchizedek is just as whom this chapter talks about.
(1) Who is Melchizedek? (7:1-3)
According to these verses, it is obvious that he is:
A. king of Salem (7:1)
HEBREWS 7:1 This Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings and blessed him,
(NOTES)
“This Melchizedek was king of Salem ”:
Salem means peace or perfection. King of Salem means the king of peace (7:2). In ancient times, Salem is the abbreviation of Jerusalem. Melchizedek as the king of Salem is the typology that Christ as the king of peace -- “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. ” (Isa 9:6; Mat 21:4-5). He is the source of the peace and makes people receive the peace of God. The peace He gives is different from what this world gives (Joh 14:27). Whoever is in Him and prays to Him will receive the peace of God, which transcends all understanding (Joh 16:33; Php 4:6-7).
B. priest of God Most High (7:1)
Since Melchizedek is the king of Salem, that is, he is Canaanites and belongs to the gentiles. The priesthood is to deal with the matters related to God and do the sin offerings for the people. According to the Old Testament, the priest should be anointed first and then be ordained to serve as the priest. Here, Melchizedek is called the priest of God Most High. However, it is apparent that his position is not received in the way of anointing Aaron, but is anointed in a special way by God. Before Aaron was anointed, Melchizedek had been the priest in the gentiles already to deal with the matters of the sin offering. And he has the “permanent priesthood”, for the Bible does not record that his position should be substituted by others. In the like manner, Christ is the priest of God Most High. He is not anointed according to the laws, but was anointed by God in a special way -- is anointed through the Spirit of resurrection (Rom 8:11; Joh 3:34; Mar 16:19), to be the permanent high priest.
C. blessed Abraham (7:1)
“He met Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings and blessed him”. This incident is recorded in (Gen 14:8-20). At the time when Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings, the one who first met him was king of Sodom. However, Abraham refused to accept anything from king of Sodom. After that, Melchizedek brought out bread and wine to welcome Abraham, so that Abraham and his followers can renew their strength in their wearisome. Melchizedek also blessed them so that they will be blessed physically and spiritually. This incident is enough to be the typology that Jesus Christ is our high priest who can sympathize us on our weakness, he always gives us proper help and strength in the time of our wearisome. As to those believers who overcome the sins and evils, and refuse the temptations of the world, he often brings many spiritual blessings to “meet” them so that they will be stronger than before.
HEBREWS 7:2 and Abraham gave him a tenth of everything. First, his name means "king of righteousness"; then also, "king of Salem" means "king of peace."
(NOTES)
D. accepted a tenth of the plunder (7:2)
“and Abraham gave him a tenth of everything. ” Since Abraham gave him a tenth of everything, it implies that Abraham accepted and respected Melchizedek’s priesthood of God Most High. Since the father of the faith -- Abraham considered Melchizedek as the representative of God to accept his contribution of a tenth of the plunder, it is indubitable how honorable and glorious the priesthood that Melchizedek has.
Even the father of the faith -- Abraham, when he gained something new, would not forget to contribute a tenth of it to God; as to us who became the spiritual descendents of Abraham with his faith, how could we in all the grace that is given by God, forget to contribute the portions that belong to God?
E. king of righteousness (7:2)
“First, his name means "king of righteousness"; then also, "king of Salem" means "king of peace." ” :
Both “king of righteousness” and “king of peace” are the typology of Jesus Christ who is the real king of righteousness and peace.
The punishments that Jesus Christ received on the cross, not only declare the redemption from the kindness and love of God, but also declare the righteousness of God. Although Jesus Christ is the Son of God, when he carried the sins of the people of the world, he was not spared from the punishment. Not only He made the righteousness of God complete, but also He became the righteousness of those who believe in Him(1Co 1:30). He Himself loves righteousness (Heb 1:9), and He also makes those who believe in Him pursue the righteousness (2Ti 2:22). He was raised up by God as “a righteous Branch” to David, and a King who will reign and do what is just and right in the land (Jer 23:5;33:15; Dan 9:7; Rev 19:11-16).
“First, his name means "king of righteousness"; then also, "king of Salem" means "king of peace." ” :
He is not only king of righteousness, but also king of peace. He not only becomes our righteousness, but also becomes our peace. This is not only because of the kindness and love of God, but also because of God’s righteousness. According to the righteousness of God, since Christ has bore the pains of the sins, it brings peace to everyone who is in Him.
F. without genealogy (7:3)
HEBREWS 7:3 Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life, like the Son of God he remains a priest forever.
(NOTES)
“Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life”:
According to the following verse, “Just think how great he was”. It is obvious that Melchizedek is a man like the average people. Since men will not be without father or mother, and without beginning of days or end of life. Even when Jesus Christ was on earth as a man, he also had birth and death. Therefore, here, “without father or mother” , does not indicate that he had no father and mother to give birth to him, but indicates that the Bible does not record the name of his parents, and the background of his family. “without genealogy” can be the explanation for “without father or mother”, for “without father or mother”, that is, there is no record of genealogy and parents. “without beginning of days or end of life” also means the same thing; that is, there is no record of his beginning of days or end of life. In the Bible, when it first talks about Melchizedek, it is said that he is the priest of God Most High, and he went out to meet Abraham (Gen 14:18-20). After about one thousand years, in (Psa 110:4), his name was mentioned again and that is all; until his name appeared again in this book, it has been another thousand years. How his beginning of days or end of life is like, nobody knows. What the Bible tells us is only about his position, honor and glory.
G. like the Son of God (7:3)
This explains the implication of “without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life,” The reason that the Bible does not record his parents, genealogy, birth and death, is because such a person without father or mother, genealogy, beginning of days or end of life is proper to be the typology of the one without beginning of days or end of life -- the Son of God Jesus Christ as the high priest. According to the regulations of the Old Testament, one who has no genealogy can not be as the priest. However, since Melchizedek is as the high priest of God Most High, yet without genealogy, it shows that his position is completely different from that of Aaron, and does not base on the same laws or regulations. Jesus Christ became the high priest, and he also has no genealogy. Although the Gospel book of Matthew records his genealogy as a king, and the Gospel book of Luke records his genealogy as the Son of Man, the Bible never records his genealogy as a priest, for in the tribe of Judah, no one has ever been the priest.
“like the Son of God ” :
These words prove that Melchizedek is not the Son of God, but “like” the Son of God. The word of “like” does not mean being exactly the same from every aspect; but indicates that the likeness from some aspects is enough for him to be the typology of the Son of God. In fact, Melchizedek is not the typology of Christ from every aspect. Aaron as the high priest, is the typology of Christ on the works of offering the gifts and sacrifices for sins. However, when talking about Melchizedek, it does not mention his work of offering the gifts and sacrifices for sins, but only mentions his honor to give bless to Abraham and his marvelous appearance and hide. Therefore, Melchizedek as the typology of Christ being the high priest, is on the aspects of the honor of the position, the extraordinary order, and being without the beginning of days or end of life.
(2) How Melchizedek is greater than Aaron (7:4-10)
In the preceding verses, it has talked about who Melchizedek is. In the following verses, the author especially talks about the details that Melchizedek accepted a tenth of things from Abraham and he blessed Abraham to prove that Melchizedek as the high priest is in completely different order of Aaron and his descendants, and is greater than Aaron.
A. regarding that Melchizedek accepted a tenth of the plunder from Abraham (7:4)
HEBREWS 7:4 Just think how great he was: Even the patriarch Abraham gave him a tenth of the plunder!
(NOTES)
Since Abraham is the ancestor of the Hebrews and the father of faith, even the patriarch Abraham gave Melchizedek a tenth of the plunder; it is obvious how great the status of Melchizedek is, which is higher than Abraham. Even Melchizedek as the typology of Christ is so honorable, shouldn’t Christ be much greater than Aaron -- the high priest who is just the 6th generation of the descendents of Abraham (Exo 6:16,18,20)?
This verse teaches us that:
a. We should often think carefully of those respectable spiritual great men; their reverent attitudes toward LORD make us understand how great the honor and glory of Christ is, so that we worship and honor Christ far above everything.
b. We should imitate those ancient people who are reverent to God and make offerings willingly. Just as Abraham, not only he offered one tenth of everything to Melchizedek, but also he offered willingly and “gave a tenth (the topmost or the pick of the heap) of the spoils” (A.M.P.).
B. regarding that Melchizedek’s priesthood is different from that of the descendents of Levi (7:5-6)
HEBREWS 7:5 Now the law requires the descendants of Levi who become priests to collect a tenth from the people--that is, their brothers--even though their brothers are descended from Abraham.
(NOTES)
According to the record of the laws in the Old Testament, the Levites can collect a tenth from the Israelites; and the Levites should give a tenth to the descendents of Aaron as the priests (Num 18:21,24,25-32; Deu 14:28,29). This one tenth is what the Israelites should offer to God. However, God give this one tenth to Levites as their reward on their work in the Meeting Tent. Although the Levites are the same as other Israelites who are also the descendents of Abraham, and there is no any reason that they are above other descendents of Abraham. Since God let the tribe of Levi to work on the Meeting Tent and have the right of being the priests, they are eligible to get what is commanded by God and “collect a tenth from the people”. However, the priesthood of Melchizedek is completely different from that of the descendents of Aaron. Not only that he did not need to pay a tenth to the priests who were the descendents of Aaron, but also he accepted a tenth from their patriarch Abraham. It is obvious that the priesthood of the high priest of Melchizedek is definitely not under that of Aaron, but is above Aaron and greater than Aaron, and in the completely different order as the high priest -- the order of being king and priest. Apparently, if even the descendents in the body of Abraham could have the honor of the priest because of the anointing of God, and can collect a tenth from other descendents of Abraham, then this Melchizedek (the typology of Christ) who is greater than Abraham and was established to the high priest in different order, shouldn’t he is more honorable than Aaron?
From Melchizedek, we can get a precious principle to think of Christ. At many times, we often think of the virtues of Christ according to the common sense; that is not enough. As to Christ, we should think of Christ in the completely extraordinary order beyond the general ideas of people. Not only Christ is the best and greatest man, but also He is above all the ordinary; He is better than the best, more honorable than the most honorable. If we only think of Christ in the category of the average people, we will ignore His surpassing glory.
C. regarding that Melchizedek blessed Abraham (7:6-7)
HEBREWS 7:6-7 This man, however, did not trace his descent from Levi, yet he collected a tenth from Abraham and blessed him who had the promises. And without doubt the lesser person is blessed by the greater.
(NOTES)
To give blessings to others is by the authority of God to bless others (Num 6:23-26), and proclaim the blessings to people for God. Such a person who gives blessings is surely greater than the one who is blessed. Since Melchizedek blessed Abraham, he is certainty greater than Abraham. The Hebrews always think that their ancestor Abraham is the greatest; however, they do not know that this high priest Melchizedek who is the typology of Christ is greater than their ancestor. Since Jesus Christ is greater than all the high priests who give blessings to others at all the time in all the countries, he is certainly greater and more complete than the high priest Aaron who only gave blessings to the Israelites.
Jesus Christ is our source of all the blessings. All the blessings given to men must base on His blessings. If He does not bless, one can not get the blessings; if He blesses, nobody can stop one from receiving the blessing.
D. regarding the eternity of the priesthood of Melchizedek (7:8)
HEBREWS 7:8 In the one case, the tenth is collected by men who die; but in the other case, by him who is declared to be living.
(NOTES)
“In the one case, the tenth is collected by men who die”:
refer to the descendents of Aaron as the high priests in the temple. They are as the high priests in the order of Aaron, and they themselves are “subject to weakness. ”; they are the high priests that the death will prevent them from continuing in their priesthood.
“but in the other case, by him who is declared to be living. ”:
In the sentence above, “men” is plural; here “him” is singular number; indicates that Jesus Christ -- the high priest that Melchizedek is as his typology, lives forever. The Bible does not record the beginning and end of the life of Melchizedek, but takes the extraordinary order of his priesthood as the typology of Christ to be the permanent high priest, who does not need the successor. Such a high priest in the extraordinary order of Melchizedek, and such a high priest with the honor of a king, whose appointment is unique and forever, is Jesus Christ who lives forever.
E. regarding that Melchizedek also accepted the tenth from Levi (7:9-10)
HEBREWS 7:9 One might even say that Levi, who collects the tenth, paid the tenth through Abraham, because when Melchizedek met Abraham, Levi was still in the body of his ancestor.
(NOTES)
“Levi, who collects the tenth”:
refers to the tribe of Levi who collect the tenth. Abraham is the great-grandfather of Levi. Although when Abraham offered a tenth to Melchizedek, Levi has not been born yet, Levi is the descendant of Abraham and related by blood to Abraham; therefore, when Abraham offered the tenth to Melchizedek, it can also say that Levi through Abraham offered the tenth to Melchizedek. Just as when Adam sinned, we the descendents of Adam became sinners because of the sin of Adam and have the sinful life (the original sin) (Rom 5:19). Thus, from the point of status, Levi should also offer a tenth to Melchizedek. Therefore, the priesthood of Melchizedek as the high priest is certainly greater than the Levites who are as the priests.
(3) Christ is the perfect high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:11-28)
In the preceding text, it mentions how the honor and glory of the priesthood of Melchizedek is greater than Aaron. He is a royal priesthood, and is the high priest of God Most High in different order. Here, it points out that Jesus Christ is such a perfect high priest in the order of Melchizedek.
A. The necessity that Christ is the high priest in the order of Melchizedek (7:11-12)
HEBREWS 7:11 If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the law was given to the people), why was there still need for another priest to come--one in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron?
(NOTES)
This verse explains why there was still need for another priest to come--one in the order of Melchizedek. It is because the priesthood of Levi, and the laws based on this priesthood, have been proved that they can not make people perfect. Those who are the priests under the laws of the Old Testament, can only tell others the laws, but can not make them perfect. They themselves are the same as other people “For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature” (Rom 8:3) Therefore, although the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good (Rom 7:12), the priesthood under this system of laws can not make people perfect. Therefore, it is necessary that God raise up another high priest -- Jesus Christ; not only He Himself is perfect, but also He can make all who believe in Him perfect.
HEBREWS 7:12 For when there is a change of the priesthood, there must also be a change of the law.
(NOTES)
The priesthood of Aaron is based on the regulations of the law. Since there is a change of the priesthood, there must also be a change of the law that is closely related to the priesthood. Therefore, Jesus Christ has the priesthood of the high priest; this is not based on the law of the Old Testament, for according to the law of the Old Testament, since Christ is not the descendent of Aaron, He can not take the position of high priest.
On the other hand, the sinners need such a high priest, who can reconcile men to God in a normal relationship. However, the priesthood of Aaron and the law received in this priesthood(7:11), have been proved that can not make men perfect. It is necessary that God raise up a high priest in other order. Therefore, the law must be changed. The laws under the priesthood of Aaron, are all about the outward, the temple worship and the written code; however, the laws under the priesthood of the greater priest -- Jesus Christ, are all about the spirit, the faith and the Spirit (Rom 7:6; 2Co 5:7; 2Co 3:3-6). The former can not reconcile men to God in a normal relationship; but as to the latter, “he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy” (Heb 10:14-16).
“a change ”:
Here, “a change” definitely does not mean that when God announced the law in the Old Testament, it has anything imperfect, and need a change or correction. It is definitely not that there is any change in the faithfulness of God. But it is saying that because the weakness of men makes them unable to observe the laws in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, God use completely different way to make men reconcile to Him. God did not change the laws of the Old Testament so that we can abide by them; but God change to another law so that men have the hope to be saved. The reason of this change will continue to be discussed in the following.
B. The characteristics that Christ has as the high priest in the order of Melchizedek: (7:13-28)
a. He descended from the tribe of Judah, but not from the tribe of Levi (13-14)
HEBREWS 7:13-14 He of whom these things are said belonged to a different tribe, and no one from that tribe has ever served at the altar. For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah, and in regard to that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.
(NOTES)
On one hand, these two verses continue the preceding verses 11 and 12, to prove that the priesthood and law have changed indeed. It is because according to the laws of the Old Testament and historical facts, the tribe of Judah can not be the priest and no one from that tribe has ever been a priest before. Now since Jesus Christ is the high priest from the tribe of Judah, it is obvious that the priesthood and the law have been changed. On the other hand, it explains the verse 11 that “another priest to come--one in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron”. Here, “another priest to come” refers to “our Lord ” Jesus Christ.
Regarding the tribe of Judah, it is the tribe to be kings. When Jacob gave the blessings before his death, he predicted that “The scepter will not depart from Judah”. “The scepter” is the symbol of the royal power. Later on, God did especially select David as the king of the Israelites and promised to raise up one to sit on the throne of David forever (2Sa 7:13-16; 1Ch 17:12-14; Psa 89:4-20,36-37); that is Jesus Christ (Dan 9:6-7). Therefore, Jesus Christ is from the tribe of Judah to be the high priest; that is, He is both the king and the high priest, just as Melchizedek who is as the typology.
b. He has become a priest not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life. (15-19)
HEBREWS 7:15 And what we have said is even more clear if another priest like Melchizedek appears,
(NOTES)
This verse continues to explain that it is not impossible that Christ became the high priest without the priesthood from Aaron. It is because since God can appoint Melchizedek as the high priest before the priesthood of Aaron, He certainly can appoint another greater high priest after the priesthood of Aaron according to the way of Melchizedek. Therefore, from the viewpoint that God on the basis of the way of Melchizedek raise up another high priest, it is apparent and clear that it is not unbelievable that we say that Christ is from the tribe of Judah to be as the high priest.
“like Melchizedek appears”
It is similar to “in the order of Melchizedek” . Both are used to describe that Christ is the high priest as the same kind of Melchizedek, and is completely different from the priests of Levi. In the concepts of the Hebrews, being a high priest without being the descendants of Aaron, is very strange and questionable thing. Therefore, the author explains the reasons repeatedly so that to strengthen their faith.
HEBREWS 7:16 one who has become a priest not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life.
(NOTES)
The regulation under the priesthood is on the basis of a regulation as to the ancestry. As to those who become the high priest, it is not because of the perfection of themselves; but on the basis of a regulation as to their ancestry, they carried on the position of their deceased father. They have the beginning and the end of the life, and they are of blood and flesh. Also the work they do is within the category of the outward: the altar and the Holy Place that they serve; the sacrifices that they used as the sin offerings are the cattle and sheep that can not really take away sins. Therefore, the achievements of their work, are just on the basis of a regulation as to their ancestry. Their outward is cleaned; but can not really cleanse the impurity, sins and evils. However, Christ has become a priest not on the basis of a regulation as to his ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life; that is, the power of the resurrection of life. He is on the basis of the great power of resurrection given by God (Eph 1:20), to be our priest (Heb 8:1). The sacrifice that He offered is his unblemished blood to cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death (Heb 9:14). He is the high priest for us in the invisible spiritual world; what He gives us are the imperishable life (Joh 3:15-16); the “regulations” that He uses to discipline us is “the law of the Spirit of life” (Rom 8:2)
Therefore, as to this high priest in completely different order, the “regulation” that His priesthood is based on, and the achievements of the power of the work, are all completely different from the work of the high priests in men’s world.
HEBREWS 7:17 For it is declared: "You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek."
(NOTES)
Here, it cited again the words in (Psa 100:4). When David said these words, it has been more than 400 years (up to 500 years) after Aaron became the high priest. The author cited the words of David; it is to prove that it is not something new that the author suddenly declared in this letter that Christ is a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek. But in a thousand years before the author wrote this letter, and 400 hundred years after Aaron was anointed as the high priest, Holy Spirit has proclaimed it through the first king of the tribe of Judah -- David. If the priesthood of Aaron can make men perfect, why did God give this prediction through David a thousand years before? It is obvious that to raise up another high priest -- Jesus Christ besides the tribe of Levi, is the plan made by God from the very beginning.
HEBREWS 7:18 The former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless
(NOTES)
This verse does not refer to the regulation only, but refers to the whole priesthood system under the whole laws of the Old Testament. In these verses, the priesthood and the law under it are closely related to be discussed. They are of one system, and are close to each other and are not separated. According to verse 12, “For when there is a change of the priesthood, there must also be a change of the law.” It is obvious that the priesthood and the law are changed at the same time and belong to one system.
According to what is in this verse: “The former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless ”; this refers to the whole system including the priesthood. This whole system of priesthood in the Old Testament, has been proved to be weak and useless. On one hand, it refers to the weakness of men themselves; “For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature” (Rom8:3 ). On the other hand, it indicates that this system is weak and useless from the aspects of taking away sins and doing the redemption. Through the law one becomes conscious of sin (Rom 3:20); however, the law can not take away the sins from men. Because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins (Heb 10:4). It is the typology that the coming one who will take away the sins of the world (Joh 1:29). “The law was added so that the trespass might increase. ” (Rom 5:20 ). Although men have sins already before there is the law, after God added the law, the trespass of men were disclosed. Therefore, the function of the law is to make men know what sin was (Rom 7:7), and know the danger of the ending of the sins (Rom 6:23), so that men will turn to the redemption of the precious blood of Christ (Gal 3:23-24). Therefore, if men want to rely on the regulations of the law to take away sins and be saved, it is “useless”.
“is set aside”:
Since this regulation and law has been proved to be “weak and useless”, it has declared that the whole world is a prisoner of sin, and has shown its function to make people “become conscious of sin.”, until the truth of “righteousness through faith” is revealed (Gal 3:23-25). Therefore, we do not take away sins to be saved by the way of the priesthood system in the Old Testament any longer. “is set aside” is also translated as “is cancelled” (A.M.P.). In fact, the priesthood system in the Old Testament is cancelled indeed nowadays, and the offerings also stopped. However, the priesthood of the greater high priest in the New Testament continues; and all those who are elected in Christ are reborn according to the new rules in the new system -- live by faith -- and become “a royal priesthood” (1Pe 2:9). Furthermore, the regulations of the law and the priesthood in the Old Testament, are not given to the gentiles, but are given to the Israelites. These are what the Israelites only have. “He has revealed his word to Jacob, his laws and decrees to Israel. He has done this for no other nation; they do not know his laws. Praise the LORD . ”(Psa 147:19-20; Psa 78:5; Deu 33:4).
Therefore, as to the Christians (including the Jews who believe in Christ), “is set aside” implies that do not continue to use the regulation under that system of the Old Testament. It is because before they believe in LORD, they did not make any covenant with God at all; there is neither “old” covenant nor new covenant to them.
HEBREWS 7:19 (for the law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.
(NOTES)
“(for the law made nothing perfect)”; this verse is put in the bracket. It is to explain the reason that “the former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless ”. “made nothing perfect”; indicates that as to “perfection” mentioned in the preceding verses (7:11; 9:10), and “save completely ” mentioned in the following verses (7:25), nothing is made perfect. The law convicts the sins of men, and makes men know what is sin; but can not rescue men from the sins.
The verse of (Rom 6:14) tells us that the believers are not under the law, but under the grace. The way to be saved is not through the law, but through the faith in God. After the rebirth, the rules to live a life are according to the standard higher than the laws; this rule is “love” and to live according to the Holy Spirit. “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. ” (Rom 13:8-10). Therefore, what the believers of the New Covenant obey, is the commandment with love as the top rule. Anything that is not in accordance to “love”, is not what the believers should do. Also, this new commandment to live a life according to the rule of love, is carried out though the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit -- “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. ” (Gal 5:22-23) Note that: “Against such things there is no law. ” refer to those things that are done under the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, whoever is led by the Spirit, is not under law (Gal 5:18). Living according to the Holy Spirit, is the category that God give to the believers; it can make the morality of the believers reach the higher standard that is above the standard of the regulations of the laws. That is the life in the category which is wider, stricter, and more living -- a life in Christ by taking the love as the rule, and the Holy Spirit as the guidance.
“and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God. ”:
“is introduced” means to lead, bring into and start and so on.
Since the law is weak and useless and makes nothing perfect, why God established the law? Although the law makes nothing perfect in taking away the sins, it introduces a better hope, which is the better new covenant. The hope that we can be righteousness through the faith (Note that, “by which we draw near to God”; it is obvious that this hope is related to our salvation and hope to be drawn near to God). The law can not really draw people near to God and let one approach God. However, the redemption of Christ draws people near to God, and makes people have the hope to be saved -- “So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. ” (Gal 3:24)
In short, Christ is as our high priest in the order of Melchizedek, not on the basis of a regulation as to the ancestry but on the basis of the power of an indestructible life. On the basis of His experience that He died and resurrected for us, He carries out the priesthood ( by which we draw near to God ); it is not on the basis of the weak and useless regulations, but on the basis of the better hope -- the hope of being redeemed in the new covenant and receiving new life in Christ.
c. He became a priest with an oath by God, but not without an oath (20-22)
HEBREWS 7:20-21 And it was not without an oath! Others became priests without any oath, but he became a priest with an oath when God said to him: "The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind: 'You are a priest forever.' "
(NOTES)
Here, it tells us that Christ is as our perfect high priest; another unique characteristics is that He became a priest with an oath by God, while other priests of Levi did not become priests with an oath. They based on the regulations passed on by Moses to carry out the outward work of priesthood. These regulations of the law, are “a shadow of the good things that are coming”. However, Christ is our high priest, and is not as those priests in men’s world; He became priest with an oath of God. There is no such a precedent of a priest with an oath in the Old Testament. It is obvious that Christ became our priest in completely different order from the priests of the Old Testament, and is anointed in a special way by God.
“became a priest with an oath” :
This verse implies that: became a priest by the faithfulness and power of God Himself as the evidence. In the Old Testament, God used to confirm the promise with an oath to Abraham (Gen 22:16-18); it is from the sympathy of God that He guarantee the promise will come true by His faithfulness and power. Thus, Christ became the high priest with an oath of God; in another word, Christ became the high priest on the basis of the faithfulness and power of God Himself , which is as the backup forces. Since an oath of God will be unchanging, the fact that Christ is as the permanent high priest will be unchanging forever.
“when God said to him: "The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind: 'You are a priest forever.' " ” :
Here, it cited again the verse of (Psa 110:4) to prove that Christ is indeed the priest with an oath from God; for a thousand years ago, God spoke through David already. At the same time, it also proves that the oath that God spoke through David is indeed reliable; for His words have come true that Christ became the high priest.
HEBREWS 7:22 Because of this oath, Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant.
(NOTES)
Since Christ is not anointed according to the law of the Old Testament, but completely according to the New Testament and on the basis of the faithfulness and the supreme authority of God Himself, thus, Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant (the New Covenant). Only such a high priest who is anointed by the faithfulness and great power of God, but not by the weak regulations, fits to be the guarantee of a better covenant. Such a guarantee can make those who believe in Him get all the portions and blessings in Him from God under the new covenant.
d. He lives forever and has a permanent priesthood, but is not short-termed. (23-25)
HEBREWS 7:23-24 Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood.
(NOTES)
Another characteristics of the priesthood of Christ as high priest, which is incomparable and much greater than the priests of Levi, is that He lives forever, and he has a permanent priesthood. Since Christ lives forever, His priesthood will be permanent and unchanging; however, as to those priests of the descendents of Aaron, although their priesthood is lifelong, it is not permanent due to the death that prevents them from continuing in office. For example, when Aaron died, Moses put the garments of the high priest on his son Eleazar to continue his father’s priesthood. In this way, the priesthood is passed on a generation after a generation; therefore, “there have been many of those priests” in the order of Aaron. The many generations of the priesthood proved that none of them can continue in their office to offer the sacrifices for sins that the people always need. Not only each priest has his own weakness, but also the spiritual and moral situation of each priest is different. Therefore, they are not perfect high priests and can not make those who come to ask for the forgiveness of sins perfect. However, since our perfect high priest Jesus Christ lives forever, He can be our perfect high priest forever, be ordained to serve as high priest in the heaven forever, and be as our only guarantee forever; there is no anyone else who could take it over; His priesthood is permanent and is fulfilled by Him from the beginning to the end.
HEBREWS 7:25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
(NOTES)
“Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him”:
That is, those who come to God through Him, He as the guarantee is able to save them completely. Therefore, “through him” is always and firmly “through him”. “completely” indicates to make it complete and reach the destination. He can save those who trust in Him to reconcile to God and come to God to reach the destination. No matter what kind of trials they have been through, as long as they rely on Christ, He can always save them to the final destination. Here, it is to empathize His capability that He can save us completely, but it’s not up to us; what we need to do is always and firmly rely on Him to overcome, through Him to save us completely.
“because he always lives to intercede for them. ”
This sentence explains the above one. The reason that He can save us completely, is not only because His power to save is complete, but also because He “always lives to intercede” for us. On one hand, he makes us turn around from the sins, evils, and failures to accept His cleansing through His blood. On the other hand, He makes our sins being wiped out in front of God through His precious blood which is effective forever. He can save us completely; it is not only because He covered our sins with His blood, but also because of His interceding to guard us in His hand so that we won’t fall in the hand of the devils and can never get up (Luk 22:32, LORD interceded for Peter.)
e. He is holy, blameless and pure, without sin (26-28)
HEBREWS 7:26-28 Such a high priest meets our need--one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself. For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever.
(NOTES)
(a) His characters:
“holy”: He is absolutely without sin. Although He became the flesh, that did not affect His holiness. He was born a saint (Luk 1:35), without the original sin; when He died on the cross, He is still a saint (Act 2:27;13:35; Luk 23:22,41,47), without any sin of his own.
“blameless”: there is completely no any evil thought in His mind, and there is no any improper, impure and evil thought in Him. No matter to God or to men, He is completely good. Although He has the surpassing wisdom, He has a blameless and pure heart as an infant.
“pure”:
Not only He is holy and blameless, but also He is never contaminated by any others or any outward sins and evils. Although He takes away our sins, and cleanses the sins of many most corrupted sinners, He is completely pure and is spotless and unblemished. We should be like the LORD; not only we should not sin ourselves, but also we should not share in the sins of others (1Ti 5:22).
“set apart from sinners”
When He was on earth, although outwardly, He often came close to the sinners (Luk 15:1-2), but His mind is never close to the mind of the sinners. The way of cross that He walked on, is completely “set apart” from the way of the sinners. After His resurrection, He “set apart” from this world of sinners and ascent the heaven, became our high priest in the Most Holy Place in heaven, and no sinner could hurt or contaminate Him. However, as to those who trust in His redemption, He lives in their hearts (Joh 14:16), and is close to them.
(b) His status:
“Such a high priest … exalted above the heavens”
According to the Bible, there are three heavens (Deu 10:14; 1Ki 8:27; 2Ch 8:27; 2Ch 6:18; Neh 9:6 ). Where God dwell in, is the third heaven. Paul once testified about that he was caught up to the third heaven, and heard inexpressible things in the paradise (2Co 12:2). Therefore, here, “exalted above the heavens” indicates that He is the high priest who sits at the right hand of God. He has such an absolutely supreme position that those weak priests of men’s world are definitely incomparable to Him. The above 4 virtues: “holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners”; are all used to describe His completeness from the aspect of His holiness. His pure and spotless holiness, is far above all the creations. Not only He Himself is completely holy, but also He can not be contaminated, and is “exalted above the heavens” beyond description.
(c ) the achievements of His work:
“He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself. For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever.” (7:27-28)
He does not like those priest from men’s world who are subject to the weakness themselves (5:2). Those other high priests need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people; even themselves need the blood of the cattle and sheep to redeem them from sins. However, Jesus Christ became the high priest after the law and with an oath of God. He Himself is holy. He offered His holy body as the sacrifice for their sins once for all; not for Himself, but for the sins of others. The sacrifice He offered is complete and effective forever. Such a high priest meets our need and is anointed by God; thus, shouldn’t we look upon and trust in Him wholeheartedly, respect and honor Him, be His proper people, and do those work for Him that can last forever?
Reference:
1. Zhongdao Chen: “The Lectures on the Bible Studying of the Letters in New Testament”.
