October 26, 2004

THE ENTHRONED PRIEST

"He shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule on His throne; so He shall be a priest on His throne" (Zechariah 6:13, NKJV).

The portrait of the enthroned priest attributes to Christ the double office of priest and king. Like Melchizedek, the priest-king, Jesus is portrayed as the priest who would eventually ascend the throne of His father David. The angelic announcement to Mary at the birth of Jesus was a confirmation that the Lord God would give Him the throne of His Father David (see Luke 1:32)

The imagery of the royal priest fittingly applies to Jesus. At the first advent, Jesus fully qualified to be our high priest in the heavenly sanctuary. Paul asserts that Jesus was made "like His brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest" (Hebrews 2:17, NIV). In His high priestly role, Jesus removes our sins and transforms our characters into His likeness. At the second advent, He will come to reign over His people as King of kings forever (see Matthew 25:31). As priest, He is our merciful intercessor, and as king, He is our righteous ruler.

In His priestly role, Jesus appears before God to intercede for those saved by His precious blood (see Hebrews 7:25). When His high priestly ministry is ended, He will "appear the second time without sin unto salvation" (Hebrews 9:28). It is at this point that the high priest will become king and appear as King of kings to reign in power and great glory. In Christ's present role as high priest, He is preparing and perfecting the redeemed for citizenship in His heavenly kingdom. Ellen G. White wrote, "Not until His work as a Mediator shall be ended, will God 'give unto Him the throne of His Father David,' a kingdom of which 'there shall be no end' (Luke 1:32, 33). As a Priest, Christ is now set down with the Father in His throne (Revelation 3:21)."--The Great Controversy, p. 416.

My Prayer Today: Lord, as the enthroned high priest, help me to be ready for Your righteous reign. Amen.