SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 7
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
Because of this oath, Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant. [Hebrews 7:22]
In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. [Luke 22:20]
Jesus introduces a new and better way to relate to God, not by following rules but by receiving grace.
The old system introduced under Moses – rules and rituals – was not able to change the peoples’ hearts; it only revealed how incapable and broken the human condition is.
But Jesus comes to introduce a new way, a better way.
Experience God’s love and peace not by earning it, but by receiving it as a free gift.
Freely offered, freely poured out, freely received.
The writer of Hebrews bases his view on Psalm 110:4, where the messiah is described as a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek. [Hebrews 7:17]
Unlike the priests instituted in the Moses covenant – who sinned and died and therefore could not solve the problem of sin and death – Jesus was a different kind of priest altogether.
Melchizedek is a mystery, appearing out of nowhere and never heard from again [Genesis 14:18].
I personally believe it was a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus, the king of Salem (peace) and the king (melchi) of righteousness (zedek) – honoured by Abraham through his tithe offering.
The author’s point is that this is what we really need, a messiah that is not defeated by sin and death.
This was the flaw in the old covenant, it was hindered by sin and death.
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? [Hebrews 7:11]
The former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless (for the law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God. [Hebrews 7:18-19]
We need to be clear on this: the Law of Moses was weak and useless then, and is still now.
It can be instructive, but we do not live under this system; we need to be VERY CAREFUL when we read the old testament.
It gives us glimpses into God’s heart and mind, but in a limited, time-bound manner.
It was not intended to be the answer, but to point the way to the answer – Jesus!
Jesus is the perfect helper, the ultimate saviour, the kind of messiah we need!
Nothing can stop Him, not His own sin and not the curse of sin, namely death.
Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Such a high priest meets our need–one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. [Hebrews 7:25-26]
Today we celebrate the birth of the perfect Saviour, our only hope for salvation.
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. [Luke 2:10-11]
Will you receive His help – freely offered, freely poured out, freely received?
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, You are the helper that I need. You understand my struggle, but You are not caught in it Yourself. You have broken the chains of sin, death and hell, and now offer that freedom to me too!