Cling Firmly: Jesus, Our Flawless High Priest

When a Christian feels that reading about Jesus as a High Priest is not important, the reason behind this is that churches today don’t focus much on the topic of sin. In many congregations, the comprehensive exploration of the concept of sin is nonexistent, with a heavy focus on more uplifting or self-centered messages. Consequently, conversations surrounding the role of Jesus as High Priest, particularly in relation to sin and atonement, appear disconnected to the regular church attendee. We ought to keep the truth of the atonement central as it has profound theological implications for sin, redemption, and the transformative power of faith in our spiritual journeys.

In the Old Testament, particularly in the Mosaic Law outlined in the book of Leviticus, the concept of sin is central to the understanding of the relationship between God and the people of Israel. Sin was, and still is, viewed as a violation of God’s commands and a breach in the covenant between God and His chosen people. The atonement rituals carried out by the high priest in the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement were designed to address and remedy the consequences of sin.

The work of a high priest entering the Holy of Holies to atone for Israel is outlined in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Leviticus, with a significant focus on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). The process involved several specific rituals and symbolic actions aimed at seeking forgiveness and cleansing for the sins of the people of Israel. The high priest played a central role in mediating between the people and God during this solemn and crucial event.

Entering the Holy of Holies was no easy task; it required extensive preparation and posed a high risk of death for the high priest. Here are some of the activities associated with the role of the high priest in the atonement process.

1. Timing: The high priest could enter the Holy of Holies only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). This day was set apart for the atonement of the sins of the people, and the high priest’s entry into the Holy of Holies played a central role in this ritual.
2. Preparation: Before entering the Holy of Holies, the high priest had to undergo a period of purification and preparation. This included ritualistic washings and wearing special garments, which symbolized purity and consecration.
3. Sacrifices: The high priest had to bring specific sacrifices, both for his own sins and for the sins of the people. This involved the sacrifice of a bull for the atonement of the high priest’s sins and a goat for the sins of the people.
4. Incense and Blood: The high priest would bring burning incense into the Holy of Holies, creating a cloud that would veil the mercy seat, representing the presence of God. Additionally, the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrificed animals on the mercy seat and before it, symbolizing atonement and purification.
5. Atonement for the People: The high priest’s entry into the Holy of Holies was for the purpose of seeking forgiveness and atonement for the sins of the people. This ritual emphasized the need for divine forgiveness and reconciliation between God and His people.
6. Rope and Bells: According to Jewish tradition, a rope was tied around the high priest’s ankle when he entered the Holy of Holies. In case the high priest was not properly prepared or had sinned and God’s presence struck him dead, others could pull him out without entering the sacred space themselves. Bells attached to the high priest’s garments would make noise as he moved, providing an audible signal of his activities within the Holy of Holies.

In the context of Hebrews 4:14, the mention of Jesus as a high priest who has ascended into heaven is significant. Jesus, as the ultimate high priest, not only offered himself as a sacrifice for sin but also did something that no earthly priest could ever do: He entered into the heavenly sanctuary, presenting his sacrifice before God on behalf of humanity. The writer of Hebrews asserts that we have a stronger reason to steadfastly hold onto our faith in God compared to the Old Testament believers, as we now have a superior High Priest. Jesus is far superior for the following reasons:

1. Perfection and Holiness: The high priests of the Old Testament were humans and were themselves subject to sin. In contrast, Jesus is described as sinless and morally perfect (Hebrews 4:15). His perfection makes him an ideal and holy High Priest.
2. Eternal High Priesthood: Unlike the mortal high priests of Israel, Jesus holds an eternal priesthood. Hebrews 7:24–25 emphasizes that Jesus continues as a priest forever, having an unchangeable priesthood. This eternal nature sets him apart from the temporary and limited priesthood of the Old Covenant.
3. One Sacrifice for All: The high priests in the Old Testament had to offer sacrifices repeatedly, year after year. However, Jesus offered a single, perfect sacrifice for the sins of humanity through His own death on the cross (Hebrews 9:26–28). His sacrifice is considered complete and sufficient for all time.
4. Access to God: The high priest of Israel could only enter the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement to intercede for the people. Jesus, as the High Priest, provides believers with continual access to God’s presence. Through His sacrifice, believers can approach God with confidence (Hebrews 4:16).
5. Mediator of a Better Covenant: Jesus is seen as the Mediator of a new and better covenant (Hebrews 8:6). The Old Covenant, represented by the Mosaic Law and the Levitical Priesthood, is contrasted with the New Covenant established through Jesus’ blood. The New Covenant brings complete forgiveness and an unshakable relationship with God.
6. Heavenly Sanctuary: While the high priests of Israel served in earthly tabernacles and temples, Jesus entered into the true, heavenly sanctuary. Hebrews 9:11–12 describes Jesus entering the Most Holy Place in heaven with his own blood, securing eternal redemption.
7. Sympathy and Understanding: Jesus, having taken on human form, is described as sympathetic and understanding of human weaknesses and temptations (Hebrews 4:15). This empathy makes Him a compassionate High Priest Who can intercede on behalf of humanity effectively.
8. Superior Sacrificial Blood: The blood of animals sacrificed by the high priests in the Old Testament could only symbolically cleanse sins. Jesus, as the ultimate High Priest, offered His own blood, which is infinitely more valuable and efficacious for the forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 9:14).

Conclusion

As we reflect on the significance of Jesus as our flawless High Priest, the call to cling firmly to Him takes on profound meaning. His perfection, eternal priesthood, and sacrificial love offer a source of unwavering hope and assurance. The invitation to cling firmly to Jesus is an invitation to trust in a High Priest Who not only understands our weaknesses but has triumphed over them. In embracing this truth, we find not only forgiveness for our sins but also a steadfast anchor for our souls. May we continue to draw near to Jesus, holding fast to the assurance that in Him, we have a High Priest Who sympathizes, intercedes, and reigns with unmatched perfection. As we cling firmly to Jesus, our flawless High Priest, we discover a foundation for our faith that withstands the tests of time and eternity.