“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
The Call of the Priesthood
We are reminded through scripture that we all have a calling to be part of the priesthood. Just as the ancient priests served in the temple, we are invited to serve God in our lives. This calling motivates us to live in a way that honors our faith, helping us embrace our role in Christ’s ministry. We may not wear robes or offer animal sacrifices, yet we have been called to a life of worship. Being part of a royal priesthood is a privilege, indicating that we are set apart for God in our daily conduct. We can serve as mediators of God’s grace to others, spreading His love and guidance wherever we go in our daily lives.
Revelation 1:6
“And has made us a kingdom and priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” – Revelation 1:6
Hebrews 10:19
“Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.” – Hebrews 10:19
1 Peter 2:5
“You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” – 1 Peter 2:5
Hebrews 4:14
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.” – Hebrews 4:14
1 Timothy 2:5
“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” – 1 Timothy 2:5
Jesus as Our High Priest
Jesus plays a special role as our High Priest, representing our relationship with God. His priesthood is unique because, unlike earthly priests who offer sacrifices regularly, Jesus offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice. Through Him, we gain access to God’s presence, and His work allows us to have a personal relationship with Him. We rejoice in knowing that we can approach God with confidence, not through our own means, but through the high priest who understands our struggles and intercedes for us.
Hebrews 7:26
“For it was fitting for us to have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens.” – Hebrews 7:26
Hebrews 8:1
“Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven.” – Hebrews 8:1
Hebrews 9:11
“But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that are now already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands, that is to say, is not a part of this creation.” – Hebrews 9:11
Hebrews 2:17
“For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.” – Hebrews 2:17
Hebrews 3:1
“Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest.” – Hebrews 3:1
The Role of Priesthood in Faith Community
The priesthood has a communal aspect that is essential to our faith. As members of the body of Christ, we are called to support and encourage each other. We each make contributions through our gifts and abilities, serving one another through prayer, worship, and acts of kindness. Being part of a priesthood means we are in a relationship where we uplift one another, just as the priests of old maintained the temple and the community’s relationship with God. Our roles can vary, but we share the common purpose of growing together in faith.
Ephesians 4:11-12
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” – Ephesians 4:11-12
1 Corinthians 12:27
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” – 1 Corinthians 12:27
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Romans 12:6
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith.” – Romans 12:6
The Spiritual Sacrifices of Priests
As priests in the New Testament, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices to God. It is no longer about animal sacrifices; our offerings come from our lives and service. These sacrifices can be our praise, our acts of kindness, our prayers, and the lives we lead that reflect Christ’s love. We recognize that these offerings are acceptable not due to our perfection but because of Jesus’ righteousness. We are encouraged to live lives that are reflections of our faith, showing that we are dedicated to God’s will in our daily actions.
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Hebrews 13:15
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” – Hebrews 13:15
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Philippians 2:17
“But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.” – Philippians 2:17
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Intercession of the Priesthood
Intercession is a key function of the New Testament priesthood. As we pray for one another, we act as priests interceding before God. This role is significant in building our spiritual community while also engaging with God on behalf of others. Our prayers for those around us reflect our love and connection with them, just as Jesus intercedes for us towards the Father. We can lift up the burdens and concerns of others knowing that our prayers can bring about change, comfort, and strength.
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Romans 8:34
“Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.” – Romans 8:34
1 John 5:16
“If you see any brother or sister commit a sin that does not lead to death, you should pray and God will give them life.” – 1 John 5:16
Colossians 1:9
“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives.” – Colossians 1:9
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.” – Hebrews 7:25
Living Out Our Priesthood Daily
Finally, we are called to express our priesthood in our daily lives. Each interaction we have with others can be an opportunity to represent Christ. We must love, serve, and reflect His character in all we do. Being a priest in the New Testament context doesn’t happen only during worship services but is integrated into our everyday living. It’s about being ambassadors of Christ’s peace and love in our homes, at work, and in our communities.
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Final Thoughts
The concept of priesthood in the New Testament reminds us of our calling to serve God and each other. Each one of us is invited into this royal priesthood, giving us purpose and helping us draw closer to God. Jesus serves as our ultimate High Priest, allowing us access to God’s presence. In our faith communities, we are all called to support one another and offer spiritual sacrifices that please God. Through our prayers and acts of service, we can intercede for one another and live out our priestly calling in everyday life. This is a beautiful reminder that we are part of God’s family and have the privilege to express His love wherever we go.
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