Hebrews 8 - Introduction

The Priesthood Being Changed

-- Hebrews Eight --

Hebrews chapter eight is a continuation of the discussion of the priesthood of Christ. He is a priest, by an oath, after the order of Melchizedek. Christ's priesthood is not a part of the Levitical order. The priesthood of Christ was authentic and perpetual, while the priesthood of the Jews was typical of that which was to come. The Levitical priesthood was temporary in its nature.

The priesthood of Christ made necessary a change in the law. His priesthood demanded a change in the way priests were appointed. It also involved a change in respect to the permanency of the priest, and the moral influence of the priesthood. The priesthood of Christ far surpassed the Jewish priesthood in all aspects.

This chapter begins a look at the nature of the New Covenant brought about by the priesthood of Christ. This portion of Scripture shows the excellency of that new dispensation or new covenant of which Christ is the Mediator. He had obtained a more exalted ministry than the Jewish priests. His New Covenant is better be-cause under it sins are forgiven.