SET APART, THE PRIESTHOOD OF THE BELIEVER
We are discussing the concept of the priesthood of all believers, a notion that may initially seem complex or abstract to some. However, I will simplify it to ensure clarity and understanding. I encourage you to turn to your neighbor and affirm that you are set apart—set apart for the glory of God, set apart for His goodness, and set apart as His instrument. While this is the first service and many may not have encountered this topic before, I believe you possess the energy to engage with this message. Once again, tell your neighbor that you are set apart for God’s goodness and mercy. Let us praise God together as we embark on this new series, which I have titled “The Priesthood of All Believers.” This series is dedicated to exploring the theme of being set apart, with today’s message serving as the inaugural discussion on this vital subject.
To begin our exploration, we will reference 1 Peter 2:9, which states, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” This passage highlights the transformative journey from being a people without identity to becoming the people of God, who have received mercy. As we delve deeper into this topic, I invite you to visualize the role of a priest. Can anyone identify who the priest is among us? It is understandable that some may hesitate to point out an individual, as this is not a test of knowledge. Many might instinctively identify the person who appears most traditionally priestly, perhaps someone adorned with the symbols of their office. However, the essence of the priesthood transcends mere appearance and is rooted in the calling and purpose bestowed upon each believer.
This morning, it is essential to recognize that everyone depicted in my illustration represents priests. I urge you to communicate this to your neighbor by affirming your identity as a priest. Look at another individual and declare the same. The Scriptures affirm that we constitute a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a people chosen by God as His own special possession. This designation allows us to proclaim the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light. Once, we were not recognized as His people, but through His mercy, we have been transformed into His people. Let us acknowledge this mercy together, as it is a collective experience. In essence, we are all priests, united in this sacred calling.
To understand the origins of the priesthood, we must refer to its first mention in Genesis 14, specifically in verse 18. The concept of the first mention is significant as it reveals the original intention behind God’s design for the priesthood. This principle, often referred to as the law of first mention, serves as a guide for discerning God’s thoughts on various matters. For instance, to grasp God’s perspective on marriage, one should examine Genesis chapters 1 and 2, where it is stated that it is not good for man to be alone, and thus, a suitable helper is created for him. This foundational understanding of the priesthood invites us to explore what God envisioned for this sacred role and its implications for our lives today.
God’s original design and principles regarding marriage are foundational and can be articulated in modern terminology. While it is possible to reinterpret these concepts and assign them contemporary labels, it is essential to recognize that the essence of God’s intention remains unchanged. This principle applies universally across biblical themes, whether discussing covenants, faith, or any other significant topic. To truly understand these concepts, one should examine their initial occurrences in the Scriptures and trace their development throughout the biblical narrative. This method reveals the original context and purpose intended by God, allowing for a clearer comprehension of His divine plan.
For instance, the first mention of the term “priest” appears in Genesis 14, specifically in verse 18. To provide context, it is important to note that prior to this mention, God had called Abraham in Genesis 12 to leave his homeland and embark on a journey to a land that He would reveal. Throughout this journey, Abraham’s relationship with God deepened, characterized by a series of divine interactions that prompted him to make increasingly significant sacrifices. As their relationship evolved, God challenged Abraham to offer his long-awaited son, illustrating the depth of commitment required in their covenant. This progression emphasizes that in one’s spiritual journey, stagnation is not an option; one must either fully engage in the relationship with God or risk remaining outside of it. God desires continual growth and advancement in our spiritual lives, reflecting His own nature of progress and movement.
He embodies a progressive mindset and exhibits patience, as he remains in a state of readiness for your engagement. It is essential to understand that he is not stagnant; rather, he reflects a divine quality of waiting for us. This notion is reminiscent of the relationship that Abraham cultivated with God, which deepened over time. In Genesis 14, a significant event unfolded involving his relative Lot, who was taken captive. The narrative describes a conflict among several kings, including those from Sodom and Gomorrah, where Lot had chosen to reside, enjoying the allure of the city. This incident highlights the ongoing struggle for resources, a theme that resonates in both personal and professional realms.
In the context of business, it is crucial to recognize that territorial disputes over resources are commonplace. The events in Genesis 14 can be likened to a corporate boardroom battle, where Abraham, motivated by familial loyalty, took decisive action to rescue Lot. He mobilized three hundred and eighteen trained servants from his household, emphasizing the importance of preparation and training in any endeavor. This narrative serves as a reminder that in today’s competitive landscape, particularly in business, prioritizing innovative and specialized training is vital for success. Engaging with these biblical stories through a contemporary lens can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of leadership and resource management.
Abraham possessed a cadre of servants skilled in combat, demonstrating that his reliance on divine intervention was complemented by practical preparation and training. His relationship with God was profound enough for him to recognize the importance of being resourceful in times of conflict. The decisive battle occurred under the cover of night, where Abraham and his trained servants launched a surprise attack against their adversaries, ultimately achieving victory. This triumph was not merely a stroke of luck; it was a testament to their strategic planning and execution. Upon their return, laden with the spoils of war, Abraham encountered Melchizedek, the priest of the Most High God and king of Salem. This meeting marked a significant moment in biblical history, as it was the first recorded instance of a priest in the Scriptures.
In this encounter, Melchizedek presented Abraham with bread and wine, symbolizing a divine communion following his victory. Abraham, recognizing the spiritual significance of this moment, responded by bestowing a title upon Melchizedek, an act that was unsolicited yet profound. Melchizedek blessed Abraham, proclaiming him as the servant of the Most High God, the possessor of heaven and earth, and acknowledged God’s role in delivering Abraham’s enemies into his hands. In gratitude, Abraham offered a tithe of all he had acquired, signifying his acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and provision. This relationship between Abraham and God exemplifies a deeper spiritual understanding that many today may overlook; often, individuals experience breakthroughs in their personal or professional lives without recognizing or giving thanks to God, focusing instead solely on the achievement itself rather than the divine assistance that facilitated it.
In the pursuit of spiritual breakthroughs, it is essential to recognize the profound truth that God desires to be intricately involved in every aspect of our lives.
He invites us to deepen our relationship with Him, encouraging us to walk alongside Him so that when we experience victories, we can attribute them to His divine intervention. This understanding is crucial as we reflect on the theological significance of figures like Melchizedek, who is often regarded as a Christophany—a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. Such manifestations of God’s presence are not isolated events; they are woven throughout biblical history, as illustrated in Genesis 18, where God appeared to Abraham in the form of three visitors. This encounter suggests a profound revelation of the Trinity, emphasizing the intimate relationship God seeks with humanity.
As we trace the lineage from Abraham to the establishment of the nation of Israel, we see the unfolding of God’s plan through generations. Abraham’s covenant with God led to the birth of Isaac, who fathered Jacob and Esau. Jacob, later named Israel, became the patriarch of twelve sons, one of whom was Joseph. Joseph’s journey from slavery to becoming a powerful leader in Egypt exemplifies God’s providential care and purpose. His rise to prominence allowed him to save his family during a devastating famine, ultimately leading to their relocation to Egypt. This narrative not only highlights the significance of divine guidance in the lives of these biblical figures but also serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and obedience in our own spiritual journeys.
The migration of the Israelites to Egypt marked a significant turning point in the lineage of Abraham. Following the death of Joseph, a new Pharaoh arose who was unfamiliar with Joseph’s contributions and the history of the Israelites. This Pharaoh subjected the Israelites to slavery, prompting them to cry out to God for deliverance. In response to their pleas, God appointed a time for their liberation, leading to the birth of Moses. Although initially destined for death, Moses was saved and raised in Pharaoh’s household. However, after committing an act of violence, he fled into exile. Eventually, God revealed Himself to Moses, instructing him to return to Egypt and lead His people to freedom, a mission that involved confronting Pharaoh through a series of ten plagues.
As the Israelites escaped from Egypt, they entered a new phase in their relationship with God, necessitating a reconfiguration of their covenant. This was a people who had endured generations of slavery and had lost much of their original understanding of the God of Abraham. Upon their arrival in the wilderness, God established guidelines for their communal living and their relationship with Him. In Exodus 19, after crossing the Red Sea, God provided the Israelites with a framework for their conduct and worship, ensuring that they could coexist harmoniously and maintain a covenantal relationship with Him. This pivotal moment set the stage for the Israelites to grow into a nation that would embody the principles and values that God intended for them.
God’s initial purpose was to establish a nation of priests descended from Abraham. In Galatians chapter 3, verses 13 and 14, it is articulated that Christ has liberated us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse on our behalf, as it is stated that “cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree.” This act was intended to ensure that the blessings promised to Abraham would extend to the Gentiles through Christ. In this context, all individuals who are not of Jewish descent are classified as Gentiles in Christ, allowing them to partake in the spiritual promises that God had in store for His people following the arrival of Christ. It is essential to grasp this message thoroughly, as it encapsulates the transformative nature of faith and inclusion in God’s divine plan.
The role of the priest as an intermediary arose from the separation caused by sin and fear, which distanced humanity from God and necessitated the existence of Old Testament priests. God instructed Moses that, having liberated the Israelites from slavery, they were to become a kingdom of priests, granting them direct access to Him, akin to the relationship Abraham enjoyed. This call to return to a state of direct communion with God is evident in Exodus 19. However, when God manifested His presence in Exodus 20, the people were overwhelmed by the grandeur of His appearance, characterized by thunder, lightning, and smoke. In their fear, they requested Moses to communicate with God on their behalf, expressing their inability to withstand His direct presence, thus highlighting the profound impact of divine holiness and the human condition in the face of such majesty.
Moses addressed the people, reassuring them not to be afraid, as God had come to test them. The purpose of this divine encounter was to instill a sense of reverence for God, which would ultimately guide them away from sin. While the congregation remained at a distance, Moses took the initiative to draw closer to God. This dynamic reflects a persistent barrier that has historically hindered individuals from approaching the divine. The same obstacles that prevented the Israelites from feeling a direct connection to God continue to affect people today. Many still grapple with feelings of unworthiness, a profound sense of condemnation, and the question of their significance before the Almighty. This mirrors a child’s sentiment of inadequacy in the presence of a parent, despite the inherent relationship that exists.
God’s intention in creating humanity was fundamentally relational, yet many remain distant, failing to recognize that they do not require an intermediary to engage with Him. Just as a child communicates directly with a parent, believers are encouraged to approach God without the need for a mediator. Unfortunately, many Christians still seek out figures like Moses to intercede on their behalf, often asking what God is saying, which implies a spiritual deafness to His voice. God speaks clearly to all, and while the ministry of prophets is indeed significant, it is essential to understand that they serve as instructors rather than intermediaries. The separation caused by sin and fear necessitated the role of Old Testament priests, but this is not the intended design for a relationship with God. The call is for individuals to draw near, to embrace their direct access to the divine, and to foster a personal connection that transcends the need for intermediaries.
The arrival of God was met with a profound sense of awe and trepidation, as His presence was overwhelming to those who witnessed it. When God declared His intention to resume His covenant with Abraham, the people were unable to withstand the magnitude of His glory, leading to an atmosphere thick with fear. It is essential to recognize that God’s original design did not involve any intermediaries; rather, He desired a direct relationship with His people. This longing for unmediated access to the divine is a fundamental aspect of God’s plan, which has been obscured over time by various religious practices and structures.
The Protestant Reformation, spearheaded by Martin Luther, emerged as a significant movement challenging the established norms of the Catholic Church, ultimately giving rise to the diverse array of Protestant denominations we see today. This movement was rooted in the belief that every believer possesses the right to approach God directly, without the need for a priestly intermediary. Luther’s assertion that “the just shall live by faith” underscored the idea that faith, rather than ritualistic practices, is the cornerstone of a believer’s relationship with God. His actions, including the posting of his theses, were pivotal in making biblical teachings accessible to the masses, thereby empowering individuals to engage with their faith personally. In the New Testament, this restoration of direct access to God through Christ reaffirms His original intention, emphasizing that God’s love continually seeks to bridge any divide between Himself and humanity, even in the face of rejection.
Through Christ Jesus, the original divine intention has been restored, as articulated in Galatians 3:13-14, which emphasizes our redemption in Him. This redemption allows us to partake in the blessings promised to Abraham and his descendants, affirming our status as adopted children of Abraham through faith. One of the most significant benefits of this relationship is our direct access to God. The concept of priesthood is pivotal in understanding this access, particularly the distinction between the Aaronic priesthood and the Levitical priesthood, which emerged after the Israelites chose to distance themselves from God. They requested Moses to act as an intermediary, leading to God’s instruction to appoint Aaron and his sons as priests, as noted in Exodus 28. This appointment marked a deviation from God’s original plan, as only the descendants of Aaron and the tribe of Levi were permitted to serve in the temple and approach God.
In the temple structure, there were distinct areas: the outer court, the inner court, and the Holy of Holies. The Levites were allowed into the inner courts, while the general Jewish populace remained in the outer courts, with only Aaron and his sons permitted to enter the Holy of Holies. Today, many believers find themselves in a similar position, remaining in the outer court and not fully engaging with the deeper spiritual realities available to them. However, through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, the barriers that once separated humanity from God’s presence have been dismantled. This act of grace has opened the way for all believers to experience a profound relationship with God, transcending the limitations of the past and inviting them into the fullness of His presence.
Christ is recognized as a priest in the order of Melchizedek, which signifies a distinct priesthood within the New Testament framework known as the royal priesthood. This royal priesthood is fundamentally different from the Levitical priesthood, which strictly requires lineage from the tribe of Levi and descent from Aaron to qualify as a priest. In contrast, the order of Melchizedek introduces a unique combination of priestly and kingly roles, emphasizing the dual responsibilities of authority and resource management. Unlike the Levitical priests, who were primarily supported through tithes and offerings, the New Testament priesthood grants all believers access to divine resources and authority, enabling them to operate in both spiritual and secular realms.
It is essential to recognize that many individuals desire the authority associated with kingship while neglecting the vital role of priesthood.
Numerous believers aspire to positions of influence and leadership, such as CEOs or founders, yet they often overlook the importance of maintaining a connection with God. This disconnect can lead to a lack of spiritual effectiveness, as one cannot fully exercise authority without first ministering to God. The royal priesthood calls for a harmonious balance between being kings and priests, where believers are empowered to command respect and resources in the marketplace while simultaneously nurturing their relationship with the divine. This dual identity is crucial for fulfilling their purpose and effectively navigating both spiritual and worldly challenges.
In the realm of politics, individuals are empowered to assume significant roles, reflecting the notion that a Christian can occupy any position, including that of a president or a managing director, while simultaneously serving as a priest of the Most High God. This access to divine presence, which was once restricted in the Old Testament to the tribe of Levi, has been fundamentally transformed through Christ’s sacrifice in the New Testament. He abolished the previous limitations, establishing a new paradigm where all believers are considered part of a royal priesthood, akin to the order of Melchizedek. This shift signifies that every individual born of God is now recognized as a priest, breaking away from the exclusivity of priestly lineage and opening the door for all to embrace their spiritual responsibilities.
It is crucial to understand that the roles of pastors, teachers, apostles, prophets, and evangelists do not replace the priesthood of the individual believer; rather, these leaders are meant to guide and edify the body of Christ. As articulated in Ephesians chapter 4, verses 11-15, the purpose of these roles is to foster unity in faith and knowledge among believers, leading them toward spiritual maturity. The scripture emphasizes the importance of not being swayed by false teachings or deceptive practices, highlighting the collective responsibility of all believers to engage in their priestly duties. Therefore, it is imperative for each person to recognize and embrace their role as a priest, contributing to the growth and strength of the Christian community.
The text reflects a profound understanding of the dynamics within the church, emphasizing the inevitability of cunning and deceitful scheming that may arise in its operations. It posits that the sustainability of the church hinges on recognizing apostles, pastors, teachers, prophets, and evangelists not merely as clerical figures but as mentors and paternal figures who guide congregants toward spiritual maturity. This perspective underscores the importance of individual responsibility in one’s relationship with God, suggesting that while these leaders can provide guidance, they cannot fulfill the spiritual obligations of their followers. The analogy of parenthood is particularly poignant; just as a parent cannot consume food on behalf of their children, spiritual leaders cannot engage in worship or devotion for their congregants.
The message further articulates that God desires a relationship characterized by mutual engagement rather than dependency. It highlights the scriptural assertion that believers are called to be both kings and priests, as stated in Romans 1:6, indicating that one cannot fully embrace the authority of kingship without the foundational role of priesthood. This duality necessitates a proactive approach to spirituality, where individuals are encouraged to seek God earnestly, engage in acts of worship, and cultivate a personal relationship with the divine. The call to offer sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving is a reminder that spiritual growth requires active participation and commitment, fostering a deeper connection with God that transcends mere attendance or passive involvement in church activities.
The ability to hear divine guidance allows us to receive instructions directly from God, while others may provide validation of these messages; however, they do not serve as our primary source of divine communication. It is essential to recognize, as Jesus exemplified, that our secular professions do not hinder our role as priests before God. When Jesus selected his disciples, he did not confine his choices to those within the temple; rather, he sought out individuals from various professional backgrounds. For instance, Peter and Andrew were engaged in the fishing industry, while Luke practiced medicine. Simon the Zealot was known for his activism, and Matthew, to put it simply, was a tax collector. Each of these individuals was called to become apostles, demonstrating that one’s vocation does not preclude them from serving in a spiritual capacity.
In this current era, it is entirely feasible for professionals such as lawyers and doctors to take on roles as pastors or apostles, serving God both in the marketplace and within the church. As priests, we are tasked with standing in God’s presence and serving on behalf of the people, while also embracing our identity as kings with authority in Christ Jesus. This authority empowers us to command resources and navigate challenges in our professional lives, knowing that God fights our battles for us. Just as He intervened for Abraham when faced with the formidable alliance of five kings against Sodom, we can trust that God will support us in our endeavors, transforming our circumstances and providing for our needs, much like He did for Abraham, who ultimately found favor even among those who once opposed him.
The speaker emphasizes their identity as a priest of the Most High God, El Elyon, and references the biblical figure Melchizedek, who blessed Abraham as a servant of the Most High God. This raises a thought-provoking question about whether one could similarly be recognized today, perhaps as a representative of their workplace or financial institution, rather than being associated with a divine identity. The speaker suggests that the essence of one’s life should be traceable to a higher spiritual calling rather than merely to earthly affiliations. Melchizedek’s blessing of Abraham was not based on his prowess as a warrior but rather on his relationship with God, which underscores the importance of spiritual identity over worldly accomplishments.
Furthermore, the speaker reflects on the concept of giving within the New Testament context, asserting that while the practice of tithing is not mandated by law, it remains a significant aspect of one’s relationship with God. Unlike the oppressive nature of slavery, where commands were enforced through fear and coercion, the New Testament encourages voluntary giving as an expression of faith and gratitude. The speaker draws attention to Abraham’s instinctive decision to give ten percent of his income, highlighting that this act was not compelled by external pressure but stemmed from a genuine connection with the divine. Ultimately, the speaker concludes with a focus on the themes of access and communication, suggesting that these elements are vital for nurturing one’s relationship with God and fostering a deeper understanding of spiritual principles.
In Hebrews Chapter 4, particularly in the concluding verse, we are reminded of the significance of having a great High Priest, Jesus Christ, who has ascended through the heavens. He serves as our High Priest, and as believers, we are all called to embrace this priestly identity. The scripture encourages us to steadfastly hold onto our confession of faith, prompting us to affirm, “I will hold fast my confession.” It is essential to recognize that our High Priest is not distant or indifferent to our struggles; rather, He empathizes with our weaknesses, having faced temptation in every respect yet remained sinless. The passage further invites us to approach the throne of grace with confidence, assuring us that we can obtain mercy and find grace in our times of need. This raises critical questions for every Christian: Do you approach God with boldness? Are you willing to come boldly before Him? It is imperative to remove any barriers that hinder this boldness, as now is the time to fully embrace our access to God and approach Him with unwavering confidence.