MEMORY VERSE
“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous Light.” 1 Peter 2:9.
BIBLE PASSAGE: Hebrews 10:19-22
INTRODUCTION
In the Old Testament, Levites were the only tribe, chosen and dedicated as priests, serving as mediators between God and His people. However, this order of priesthood changed when the veil was torn due to the sacrifice of Christ Matthew 27:50-51. With direct access to the presence of God, every genuine believer in Christ is now a ‘priest’ unto God Revelation 1:5-6, 5:10. Sadly, some Christians still live as though they need some intermediaries between them and God. This lesson will help us understand and embrace our role as priests in Christ Jesus.
OUTLINES
1. OUR PRIESTHOOD
2. SIGNIFICANCE OF OUR PRIESTHOOD
1 OUR PRIESTHOOD
Believers’ priesthood in Christ is grounded in: Christ’s sacrifice, granting access to God through His blood Hebrews 10:19-22. It is based on being redeemed and made both Kings and priests by Christ Revelation 1:5-6. It is a priesthood based on non-natural descent; to Levi but to Christ, our High Priest Hebrews 7:11-12.
As believer-priests, our roles include offering spiritual sacrifices such as: worship, prayer, good works, giving, service 1 Peter 2:5; interceding for others 1 Timothy 2:1; teaching and sharing God’s word Malachi 2:7; Matthew 28:19-20; and living holy lives that reflect God to the World Leviticus 21:6; 1 Peter 1:15-16.
2 SIGNIFICANCE OF OUR PRIESTHOOD
We have direct access to God Hebrews 4:16, and this means greater responsibility. We have been called to a life of service, not status: priesthood is not about the titles we bear but service in humility John 13:14-15. We are to witness to the nations; our priesthood is to “shew forth His praises” to a watching world 1 Peter 2:9. We are also to await our eternal role because we shall reign with Christ as priests and kings Revelation 5:10.
CONCLUSION
The doctrine of the priesthood of all believers is not symbolic but practical. If you are in Christ, you are already a priest; live like one daily!
FURTHER READING
Sun: 1 Peter 2:5.
Mon: 1 Peter 2:9.
Tue: Revelation 1:6.
Wed: Revelation 5:10.
Thurs: 1 Peter 1:15-16.
Fri: John 13:14-15.
Sat: Hebrews 4:16.