Go Deeper

More Key Bible Verses

Read the following verses from the Book of Hebrews.

One of the Old Testament priests was set apart and anointed as a high priest. He wore special vestments (clothing) that symbolized purity, set him apart from others, and reminded him that he represented God’s people. For example, the high priest was to wear a breastplate made up of twelve stones, one for each of Israel’s twelve tribes. Wearing this breastplate symbolized the truth that when the priest came before the Lord, he would have on his heart, the people of Israel and their needs.

For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:

Hebrews 5:1

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 4:14-16

Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised.)

Hebrews 10:19-23

Read and study the following quotes from “A Humanitarian by Giving Mediators” chapter 7 of God—The Ultimate Humanitarian.

Mediators were essential because of the great gulf sin had created between God and mankind. The Israelites didn’t have the ability to bridge the gap, so the Lord bridged it for them. He created the three distinct positions (or offices) of prophet, priest, and king.

God—The Ultimate Humanitarian, 46

These Old Testament mediators, however, weren’t his final solution. Instead, they pictured the final solution. Just as all the sacrifices prefigured Jesus, so also these mediators. They were God’s object lessons teaching Israel what the Messiah would do for them. Jesus’ connection with these mediators is evident already in his title “Messiah.” Messiah is a Hebrew word meaning The Anointed One. In Greek, the language of the New Testament, it becomes the very familiar “Christ.” By the title of “Messiah,” or “Christ,” Jesus was linked to these Old Testament mediators because all three types were installed into their roles by being anointed.

God—The Ultimate Humanitarian, 48