How can Jesus be God’s eternal High Priest when He did not come from the tribe of Levi?

In this detailed study of Hebrews 7, Pastor Kent traces the argument that the writer has been developing since Hebrews 2. Jesus is our merciful and faithful High Priest, the greater High Priest who entered the heavenly sanctuary, and the One appointed by God according to the order of Melchizedek.

Melchizedek is not introduced merely as a mysterious biblical figure. His priesthood demonstrates that God recognised a valid priesthood before Levi, Aaron and the law. This older and greater order points forward to Jesus, whose priesthood rests not upon physical ancestry, but upon divine appointment and “the power of an endless life.”

The Levitical system served its purpose, but it could not bring perfection, permanently remove sin or provide complete access to God. Jesus has therefore brought in a better hope through which we draw near to God.

Our confidence is not in an external legal or priestly system. Our hope is anchored in the person, priesthood and finished work of Jesus Christ.