Gospel Outreach International

Have you ever wondered what makes Jesus’ role as High Priest unique and superior to the earthly priesthood? This Bible study explores Hebrews 8, which reveals how Jesus serves as our perfect High Priest in the true heavenly tabernacle, fulfilling and superseding the earthly priesthood system.

Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, Hebrews 8:1

• Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven, indicating His completed work of salvation - unlike earthly priests who could never sit in the tabernacle since their work was never finished.
• The earthly tabernacle was a precise copy of the true heavenly tabernacle that Moses was shown on the mountain, serving as a shadow of the perfect reality to come.
• All believers now function as priests under Christ’s supreme high priesthood, with the responsibility to bring others to know Christ - this differs from the restricted Levitical priesthood.
• The new covenant established through Christ is superior in both timing and quality, being written on hearts rather than stone and extending beyond Israel to include all believers.
• Under the new covenant, there is no need for ongoing sacrifices since Christ’s sacrifice was complete and perfect, fulfilling what Jeremiah prophesied.

But as it is, 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. Hebrews 8:6

This study beautifully highlights how Jesus fulfills both roles of majestic King and serving Priest, demonstrating His supreme position while still ministering to His people. The emphasis on His completed work, shown by His seated position, gives us confidence that our salvation is secure through His perfect sacrifice and ongoing ministry in the true heavenly tabernacle.

Bible References

• Hebrews 8:1-13
• Exodus 25:40
• Exodus 26:30
• Numbers 8:4
• Acts 7
• Jeremiah 31