In Hebrews 5, the author continues to point us toward Jesus as our perfect High Priest, emphasizing both His divine appointment and His deep humility. For readers in the first century—especially Jewish Christians who honored the Levitical priesthood—this idea was stunning. Jesus, who is the very Son of God, enters the role of High Priest on behalf of humanity. Today, let us explore this chapter in three main parts.
“Every high priest is selected from among the people and is appointed to represent the people in matters related to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.”
— New International Version
In ancient Israel, the high priest served as a bridge between God and the people. He offered sacrifices and prayed for mercy. Note that in Leviticus 8–9, we see how the priests were consecrated and set apart for this service. Yet the high priest was merely human and had to offer sacrifices for his own sin as well (Hebrews 5:3). By design, it underlined two truths: divine holiness is far above human weakness, and only someone called and anointed could minister in this weighty office.
• Excavations in Jerusalem and nearby regions have revealed artifacts
related to temple worship, such as priestly garments or vessels that
might have been used in sacrifices. These finds remind us that the
rituals described in the Old Testament were not abstract but part of a
living culture.
• For a modern Western reader, it can be easy to gloss over the idea of
priestly orders. Yet in the biblical world, the priesthood was deeply
tied to national identity and daily devotion.
• Exodus 28 – The appointment of Aaron and the high-priestly
garments.
• Leviticus 8 – The ordination of Aaron and his sons.
“You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”
— New International Version (citing Psalm 110:4)
Jesus did not seize the priestly role by human ambition; instead, the Father appointed Him. The author quotes Old Testament passages—particularly Psalm 2:7 and Psalm 110:4—to show that the Messiah’s priesthood was always part of God’s eternal plan. This priesthood is “in the order of Melchizedek,” a somewhat mysterious figure who appears briefly in Genesis 14 as both a priest and king.
Key points: • Although fully divine, Jesus shared our human
experiences, even learning obedience through suffering (v. 8).
• As the sinless Son, He transcends the weaknesses of ordinary
priests.
• This unique calling prepares the way for salvation for all who come to
Him.
• Early Christian thinkers like John Chrysostom stressed that Jesus’
prayers and tears (v. 7) show His real humanity and compassion for
us.
• The reference to Melchizedek has long fascinated scholars. Some see
him as a “type” or foreshadowing of Christ, for he bore titles of both
priest and king, yet had no recorded genealogy (Genesis 14). This
symbolically suggests an eternal priesthood that Jesus would fulfill
perfectly.
• The Greek word translated as “designated” or “named” in verse 10 (prosagoreuō) implies an official declaration. It underscores that Christ’s priesthood is not a human invention but a divine decree.
• Genesis 14:18–20 – The appearance of Melchizedek blessing
Abraham.
• Psalm 110:4 – “You are a priest forever, in the order of
Melchizedek.”
“We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand.”
— New International Version
After unveiling grand truths about Jesus’ eternal priesthood, the author pauses to address a spiritual concern: some believers have grown “dull” in hearing. They need milk rather than solid food. This metaphor warns us that we should keep growing in understanding, embracing the depth of God’s revelation rather than staying at a childlike level of faith.
• “Dull” in verse 11 comes from the Greek νωθρός (nōthros),
meaning sluggish or lazy in hearing. The writer wants believers to be
eager listeners, ready for deeper truths.
• Maturity involves habitual practice of discernment. As we learn, pray,
and obey, we develop a sharper sense of the Lord’s voice and ways.
We have a Savior whose priesthood can sustain us in every valley of life, yet sometimes we hesitate to explore these profound truths. Ask yourself: Am I content with spiritual “milk,” or am I pressing on to greater depths in prayer, study, and obedience?
• 1 Corinthians 3:1–2 – Paul’s similar use of “milk” and “solid
food.”
• Ephesians 4:14–15 – A call to grow and not remain spiritual
infants.
Remnants of priestly life in ancient Israel—like stone ritual baths (mikvahs) and references to temple duties—help us picture the daily labors of the Levitical priests. But no matter how holy their work seemed, it pointed to a greater reality: a flawless Mediator who would never need to offer a sacrifice for His own sins.
Consider the hymn “Rock of Ages.” Its lyrics speak of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice and our need to find shelter in His mercy. Let that message remind you of the perfect, eternal priesthood of Jesus.
Merciful Father,
We thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, our perfect High Priest. In
Him, we see compassion, obedience, and a love that never fails. Grant us
the grace to heed Your Word and to press on to maturity. May our faith
grow stronger and our hearts rest in the assurance that Christ
intercedes for us forever.
In His holy name we pray, Amen.