Christ’s ministry is superior

Christ’s ministry is superior to that of Aaron because, firstly, He ministers in a superior place.  The magnificence of the heavenly sanctuary is infinitely better than the tabernacle of Moses, the Temple of Solomon, or any place on earth where God’s glory was made manifest.  Notice that our author calls this heavenly sanctuary “the true tabernacle” (Heb 8:2).  Those who are familiar with the writings of the Apostle Paul might hear in these words the faint echo of “things which are seen are passing away, but the things which are unseen are eternal.”  Secondly, because while Jesus partook of our human nature, he did not partake of our sin.   Thus because He suffered and was tempted, He is able to sympathise with our weakness, but much more than that:

“…he is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through him since he ever lives to make intercession for them.” Heb 7:28 (NKJV)

Thirdly, because he is the mediator of a better covenant, one based on much better promises.  These promises are listed by Jeremiah as: a) an inner understanding of truth; b) an intimate relationship with God; c) complete forgiveness of all sins.  The Greek word translated ‘mediator’ (enguos) in Hebrews 8:6 is closer to ‘guarantee.’  In other words, Jesus is the guarantor, and mediator, of this new covenant.

Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises. Heb 8:6 (ESV)

Thankyou to Brian Raynor for allowing us to excerpt his essay on Melchizedek.  Download the full essay at    bfc.elvanto.com.au/posts/jesus-is-greater.