Journal: Conspectus
Volume: CONSPECTUS 29:1 (Mar 2020)
Article: ‘You Are A Priest Forever’: An Exegetical And Biblical Theology Of High Priestly Christology
Author: Clifford B. Kvidahl

Conspectus 29:1 (March 2020) p. 40

‘You Are A Priest Forever’: An Exegetical And Biblical Theology Of High Priestly Christology1

Clifford B. Kvidahl

and

Dan Lioy2

Abstract

The letter to the Hebrews is unique among its New Testament counterparts in that it is the only canonical writing to offer an in- depth explanation of the high priestly ministry of Christ within a detailed discussion of Israel’s cultic theology. The purpose of this article is twofold. First, the question of timing with respect to when Christ was installed as high priest is addressed, noting the various answers that have been proposed. It is argued that similar to the ministry of the high priest on Yom Kippur, Christ’s priestly offering is made not at the moment of his crucifixion, but instead his offering of atonement is made upon his entrance into the heavenly sanctuary. The second part of this article attempts to briefly situate Hebrews’ high priestly Christology within a broader biblical theology of the New Testament, specifically focusing on select passages from the Gospels and the writings of Paul that have been imbued with priestly connotations. It is argued that, while often other writings of the New Testament are appealed to for a proper understanding of the cultic theology of Hebrews, this same practice is not often reciprocated in return. If this were so, it would seem to be rather clear that Hebrews offers no support for an earthly Jesus functioning in priestly manner.

Keywords

High priest, Christology, atonement, heavenly sanctuary.

Conspectus 29:1 (March 2020) p. 41

1. Introduction

One of the most important contributions the letter to the Hebrews offers with respect to Christology is its unique emphasis on the high priesthood of Christ. No other New Testament writing offers such a descriptive picture of Christ’s installation as high priest, his process of perfection, or his entry into the heavenly sanctuary and subsequent offering for sin. Overall, Hebrews provides the most vivid picture of Christ’s high priesthood ministry in action, one that follows the movement of the Levitical high priest on Yom Kippur rather closely. This article will explore the high priestly Christology of Hebrews, specifically as it relates to the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ into the heavenly sanctuary. Each of these aspects plays an important role in shaping Hebrews’ discussion of priesthood, while the language of ascension takes precedence in Hebrews.

The central focal point of this article will address the following question: is th...