Articles
The Priesthood
As early as Genesis 14 we read of priests in the Bible. Genesis 14:18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God.
After Israel departed Egypt under Moses’ leadership, the tabernacle was built. At that time Aaron and his sons were to be the priests of God. Exodus 28:1 And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's sons.
During Old Testament times it was not uncommon for sin to be found among the priests. Eli’s sons were evil (1 Samuel 3). Politics also had its hand in perverting the priesthood. Instead of one serving as high priest until death as was commanded, another priest would be chosen by leaders while the current high priest yet lived.
Finally one of the biggest changes in the priesthood came to be. Hebrews 7:12-14 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.
This change in the priesthood is one of the things the veil of the temple being torn in two symbolized (Matthew 27:51). Now all could approach the Most Holy without going through another man. Jesus became the only mediator between man and God. 1Timothy 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.
The message we bring is good news. Those who are Christians, God’s children, are part of a priesthood. 1Peter 2:9 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:
There is no mention in scripture of a Christian needing to go through another earthly priest to talk to God. Even Peter told Simon to directly pray to God. Acts 8:22-23 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. (23) For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.
Take advantage of this great liberty in Christ. Become a Christian and as part of the royal priesthood have direct access to your heavenly father in prayer.
