OUR SUPREME PROPHET, PRIEST AND KING
This Hebrews passage has been called one of the four pillars of Christology. The other three are found in John 1, Philippians 2, and Colossians 1. Together, these four passages reveal much of what theologians consider central to the study of Christ.
Hebrews makes much of the supremacy of Christ. For He is the supreme expression and holder of the threefold office of prophet, priest and king:
1) Prophet. The Scripture says that in these last days God has “spoken to us by His Son.” He is God’s ultimate prophet. It further says that He is “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact expression of His nature.” He makes the invisible God, visible. He is God’s ultimate, supreme and final revelation. If you want to know God, look to His Son.
2) Priest. The Scripture says that He made “purification for sins.” This is a priestly role. Yet Jesus is both God’s great high priest and the perfect sacrifice. As John the Baptist proclaimed, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29).
3) King. The Scripture says that Christ is the “heir of all things” and that He is seated at “the right hand of the Majesty on high.” He has been appointed King of all by the Father. For being very God of very God, He was both the agent of creation and is its present sustainer. For not only did God make “the universe through Him,” He is also “sustaining all things by His powerful word.”
This is whom we have believed and received. This is our Redeemer and Friend, Jesus Christ. There is no name higher. There is no other name by which we may be saved (Acts 4:12). Let us worship Him!
PRAYER: Dear Father, we are moved to worship as we grow in the knowledge of Jesus our Lord and Savior. We are overwhelmed at Your great love in giving Him to us. Now we offer ourselves afresh to you this day. Direct us and strengthen us by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.