A Better Hope
Text: Hebrews 7:4-28
Theme: A better hope in Jesus should give us confidence to draw near to God.
Key verses: “In addition, we might even say that these Levites–the ones who collect the tithe–paid a tithe to Melchizedek when their ancestor Abraham paid a tithe to him” (v. 9). “Jesus became a priest, not by meeting the physical requirement of belonging to the tribe of Levi, but by the power of a life that cannot be destroyed” (v. 16). “Yes, the old requirement about the priesthood was set aside because it was weak and useless. For the law never made anything perfect. But now we have confidence in a better hope, though which we draw near to God. This new system was established with a solemn oath” (v. 18-20). “Because of this oath, Jesus is the one who guarantees this better covenant with God. There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office. But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf. He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has been set apart from sinners and has been given the highest place of honor in heaven” (v. 22-26). “…But Jesus did this once for all when he offered himself as the sacrifice for the people’s sins…God appointed his Son with an oath, and his Son has been made the perfect High Priest forever” (v. 28).
What God said to me: The idea of Melchizedek may sound a bit foreign to you. It’s not a name you use in your culture, and it’s about a person that seems strangely mysterious and disconnected from your way of life and understanding. The thought of Abraham paying a tithe to this foreigner may strike you as mechanical and obligatory. It really was a “hail to the king” kind of moment between Abraham and Melchizedek. In a real sense Abraham was giving worth to this king, showing respect and adoration. Abraham was worshiping me by giving to Melchizedek–nothing mechanical or involuntary about it. It was Abraham’s choice because Abraham loved and feared me. The writer of Hebrews is drawing a strong comparison between Melchizedek and Jesus. Both are superior high priests; both live forever. Both represent a better hope than the law and dying priests could ever bring you. Jesus, therefore, is able, once and forever, to save those who come to me. Soak on that. Roll those words over and over in your mind and heart. He is able. You have a better hope. You should have great confidence. Jesus lives to intercede for you! He’s doing it right now! I appointed him as your high priest forever with my very own oath–and I cannot lie! Love and honor Jesus. Pay homage to him. Worship your King!
What I said to God: Another powerful reminder of why we should always worship You, Lord. Better, once and for all, greater, forever, hope, intercede, our behalf…what encouraging and unfathomable words to hear today from Your Word. What love the Father has bestowed on us that we should be called the children of the Most High! Please help me share You with someone today. Help me be OK with my day getting interrupted by someone in need that You want me to stop and help. Please watch over and protect my wife and sons today, and my friends and NLW team.