S) "22 so much the more also Jesus has become the guarantee of a better covenant."
Hebrews 7:22 (NASB)
O) This chapter really highlights the perpetuity of Christ's priesthood, by showing how Jesus and Melchizedek are the same. The writer quoted Ps.110:4, and also referred back to the definitions of this priest's name, and his appointed kingdom. He is the king of righteousness and the king of peace, both of which Jesus is. This point had been foreshadowed in chapters 5 and 6, but the purpose of this chapter, is really to show that this new covenant we have is now permanent. There is no better covenant that could exist, which is displayed through the fact that there could be no better priest. That point is culminated in vv.18-20. But, the verse above cements the whole thing. This new covenant begins with the blood of Jesus, it is proven in the body of Jesus, and it is guaranteed in the resurrection and everlasting life of Jesus.
A) There was a time when I was much less mature in my knowledge of the Scriptures, and much less sure of the reasons for my faith. I didn't struggle with doubts, but I struggled with defense (or explanation). I remember I was asked once, if the old covenant was ended, how I knew that God wouldn't replace this current covenant eventually. At the time, I was at a loss for an answer. I just trusted in the traditions of Christianity. Now I know better. It is exactly because the Messiah was going to do this all along. The old covenant, even throughout the Old Testament, had a time limit. The Messiah would come and bring with Him a new, everlasting covenant. There could be no newer covenant, unless Jesus Himself could somehow become insufficient. He is not just a guarantee, but He is the everlasting guarantee. Our covenant in Christ comes with a lifetime guarantee, not based on our own lifetime, but based on His lifetime, which is indeed eternal.
P) Father, this is such a beautiful promise. Thank You for making this so clear. Thank You for establishing a covenant based on Your own character, based on who You are, instead of on man. We are, as created beings, so insufficient. But in Your glorious, loving grace, in Your perfect timing, You established this perfect way, that my reconciliation to You would be established by none other than Your perfect Son. I am so humbled by that love, and eternally grateful. Let Your servant honor You, through obedience and praise, in thanksgiving for such a promise. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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