We were reminded Sunday of the important role Jesus has as our High Priest, and that He alone qualifies to serve in that capacity. Though Jesus was God, he took on human flesh, so that He could become the perfect sacrifice for our sins. Why was he uniquely qualified to be our High Priest? Though he was tempted in all ways, he was without sin. Jesus is the only one who kept the whole law of God.
Why does this matter to us as his followers? I John 2:1-2 tells us, "And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins." Because Jesus experienced all the temptations to sin, he is able to sympathize with our weaknesses. But unlike the sympathy we might receive from another friend, Jesus sympathizes from a position of power and victory. And unlike us, who often cave easily to temptation, Jesus experienced the full force of temptation, yet was victorious. . .every time. As the only true "overcomer," he is able to provide the strength we need in the midst of our temptations.
Knowing Jesus is our High Priest, how should we live? The verses above tell us to hold fast to our confession that Jesus is our Lord and Savior. He is at the right hand of the Heavenly Father, interceding on our behalf. Jesus alone can save us and represent us before a holy, righteous God. The verses also instruct us to "come boldly to the throne of grace" with our prayers, so that "we may obtain mercy and find grace in time of need." This is an act of worship, really, as it changes our perspective when we affirm the Lord's promises. We never need doubt the Lord's sovereign care for our good and His glory.
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