A Commentary on the Book of Hebrews, Part 19

Let’s dig a little deeper in the well.

11 If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the law,) what further need was there that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after the order of Aaron? 12 For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. 13 For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man gave attendance at the altar. 14 For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood. 15 And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another priest, 16 Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life. 17 For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. 18 For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for the weakness and unprofitableness thereof.

The preacher is showing these Jewish Christians the fact that a priest of the tribe of Judah is not acceptable under the Law of Moses. But an older law, the law under which Melchizedek was priest, take effect once Jesus became incarnate. The King of Righteousness has entered the picture, and the law of the priesthood reverts to that under Him. Jesus said, “I am come that they might have life; and that more abundantly.” The law of Moses was a law that required death and blood to cover sin. Jesus fulfilled that law by His sinless life, death by judicial execution for a crime which He did not commit and His resurrection from the dead. The law of Moses dealt with things of the body, outward actions. The law of Christ deals with things of the soul, inward intent.

The Law of Moses has the power to convict us of sin, and to cover that sin by the blood sacrifice of an innocent victim, a spotless lamb. The Law of Christ has the power to release us from sin, and forgive us of our shortcomings through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, Whose blood was shed as atonement for all. God the Father, through the prophecy of King David, appointed Jesus to be high priest, according to the line of the King of Righteousness.

If Christ is superior to the Law of Moses, why would anyone go back to the inferior way? Similarly, why do we go back to our old ways of idolatry, serving Mammon, money, possessions and status? Once Jesus is Lord of your life, you have no need of the old things. “Lift up your head, you gates. Open wide, you everlasting doors. The King of Glory is coming in.” Don’t shut the door to Christ by turning back to the things from which He has delivered you.

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