Christ: Our Eternal High Priest and Better Way
Summary
The book of Hebrews addresses a group of Jewish Christians who are feeling the weight of persecution and are tempted to turn back to their old ways, longing for the comfort and familiarity of their past. This struggle is not unique; it echoes the experience of the Israelites in the wilderness, who, when faced with hardship, looked back longingly to their days in Egypt, forgetting the pain and bondage that came with it. The author of Hebrews urges his readers to remember the past, not to romanticize it, but to learn from it and to see how it puts the present into perspective.
Looking back at the system of the high priest, the Aaronic priesthood, we see that it was established by God for a time, with priests appointed from the line of Aaron to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people—and for their own sins as well. This system was instructive, showing the seriousness of sin and the need for a mediator between God and humanity. Yet, it was incomplete and temporary, pointing forward to something greater.
Jesus is presented as the ultimate high priest, appointed by God, not from the line of Aaron, but from the very lineage of God Himself. Unlike the priests of old, Jesus’ priesthood is eternal, after the order of Melchizedek, and He is both priest and king. He is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, not because He shares in our sin, but because He experienced the full range of human suffering and temptation, yet without sin. In the garden, Jesus offered up prayers with loud cries and tears, fully submitting to the Father’s will, and was heard—not by being spared from death, but by being delivered through resurrection.
Jesus learned obedience through what He suffered, not because He was ever disobedient, but because He experienced obedience in the fullness of human life. His perfection was demonstrated in His complete submission and sinless life, qualifying Him to be the source of eternal salvation. The sacrifices of the old system had to be repeated, but Jesus’ sacrifice was once for all, fully sufficient.
The temptation to romanticize the past, to think life was simpler or better before Christ, is a real danger. But the reality is that what we have in Christ is far better than anything that came before. In Him, we have access to God, forgiveness of sins, and a high priest who truly understands and intercedes for us. Though following Christ is not always easier, it is always better.
Key Takeaways
- The past is instructive, not definitive. Looking back at God’s work in history, especially through the priesthood, helps us understand our present need for a mediator and the seriousness of sin. But the past was always meant to point us forward to something greater, not to be a place we return to or idolize. [10:23]
- True spiritual leadership is always appointed by God, not seized by human ambition. The high priest could not take the role for himself, and those who tried—like Saul or Korah—faced God’s judgment. In Christ, we see the ultimate example of divine appointment, as He was chosen by God to be our eternal high priest, not by human lineage but by God’s own declaration. [16:57]
- Jesus’ priesthood is superior because it is eternal, sinless, and complete. Unlike the priests who had to offer sacrifices for their own sins and whose ministry ended in death, Jesus’ sacrifice was once for all, and His priesthood never ends. He is both priest and king, offering a better hope and a better covenant. [23:51]
- Christ’s ability to sympathize with us is rooted in His real human experience, yet without sin. In the garden, He faced anguish and suffering, offering prayers with loud cries and tears, fully submitting to the Father’s will. His obedience was learned through experience, making Him the perfect mediator who understands our struggles and provides the strength we need. [28:57]
- The temptation to romanticize the past or to drift from Christ is a danger for every believer. When life gets hard, we may look back and think things were easier before, but this is a distortion. What we have in Christ—access to God, forgiveness, and a sympathetic high priest—is far better than anything we left behind. We must remember and hold fast to the better way Jesus offers, even when it is not easier. [39:11]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[03:56] - Setting the Context of Hebrews
[07:00] - The Value of Remembering the Past
[10:23] - Learning from Past Experiences
[12:58] - The Role and Qualifications of the High Priest
[16:57] - Dangers of Seizing Spiritual Roles
[19:07] - The Temptation to Romanticize the Past
[23:51] - Jesus: The Better High Priest
[26:26] - Jesus’ Divine Appointment and Eternal Priesthood
[28:57] - Jesus’ Sympathy and Submission in Suffering
[32:01] - The Meaning of Jesus’ Learned Obedience
[33:38] - The Perfection of Christ Through Experience
[35:23] - The Necessity of Jesus’ Sinless Humanity
[38:06] - The Once-for-All Sacrifice of Christ
[39:11] - The Danger of Drifting and the Sufficiency of Christ
[40:32] - The Better Way in Christ
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Hebrews 5:1-10 – “Jesus: The Better High Priest”
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### Bible Reading
- Hebrews 5:1-10 (main text)
- Hebrews 7:26-27 (supporting, referenced in sermon)
- 1 Corinthians 10:11 (supporting, referenced in sermon)
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Hebrews 5:1-4, what were the main responsibilities and qualifications of the high priest in the Old Testament system?
2. In Hebrews 5:7, what does it say about how Jesus prayed and what He experienced in His humanity?
3. What does Hebrews 7:26-27 say about how Jesus’ priesthood is different from the old high priests?
4. The sermon mentioned that the past is “instructive, not definitive.” What examples did the pastor give about how remembering the past can help us in the present? [[10:23]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why was it important that the high priest in the Old Testament was able to “deal gently with the ignorant and wayward” (Hebrews 5:2)? How does this compare to Jesus’ ability to sympathize with us? [[26:26]]
2. The sermon talked about the danger of “romanticizing the past.” Why do you think the original readers of Hebrews were tempted to look back to their old ways? [[19:07]]
3. What does it mean that Jesus “learned obedience through what He suffered” (Hebrews 5:8)? How is this different from saying Jesus was ever disobedient? [[33:38]]
4. The pastor said that Jesus’ sacrifice was “once for all” and fully sufficient. Why is this significant for us today? [[38:06]]
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### Application Questions
1. The Israelites and the early Jewish Christians both faced the temptation to look back and think life was better before following God. Have you ever felt this way about your own faith journey? What triggered those feelings? [[19:07]]
2. The sermon said, “The past is instructive, not definitive.” Is there a part of your past that you tend to romanticize or wish you could return to? How might God want you to see that season differently? [[10:23]]
3. Jesus is described as a high priest who can truly sympathize with our weaknesses. When was the last time you brought your struggles honestly to Jesus in prayer? What keeps you from doing this more often? [[28:57]]
4. The old high priests had to offer sacrifices for their own sins, but Jesus was sinless and offered Himself once for all. How does this truth affect the way you approach God when you feel guilty or unworthy? [[38:06]]
5. The pastor warned about the danger of drifting from Christ, especially when life gets hard. What are some practical ways you can “hold fast” to Jesus this week, even if following Him feels difficult? [[39:11]]
6. The sermon mentioned that true spiritual leadership is appointed by God, not seized by human ambition. How can you recognize and support godly leadership in your church or community? [[16:57]]
7. Jesus learned obedience through suffering and was perfected through His experience. Is there a current hardship in your life where you sense God is teaching you obedience or trust? How can you respond with the same submission Jesus showed? [[33:38]]
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Closing Thought:
Remember, what we have in Christ is far better than anything we left behind. Even when it’s not easier, it is always better. Let’s encourage each other to keep our eyes on Jesus, our perfect high priest.
Devotional
Day 1: Remembering the Past Puts the Present in Perspective
Reflecting on the past is not just about nostalgia; it is a way to gain wisdom for today. The stories and experiences of those who have gone before us, as well as our own pivotal moments, help us see God’s faithfulness and guidance. When we remember how God has carried us through difficult decisions or seasons, it gives us courage to face current challenges. The author of Hebrews reminds his readers of the priesthood’s history, not to encourage a return to old ways, but to help them see how God’s plan has always been moving forward. The past is instructive, and it helps us understand the value and purpose of our present walk with Christ. [10:23]
Hebrews 11:1-2 (ESV)
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation.
Reflection: What is one specific way God has shown His faithfulness in your past that you need to remember today to encourage your faith in the present?
Day 2: Jesus Is the Better High Priest
Jesus’ priesthood surpasses the old system in every way—He was appointed by God, not by human lineage, and His priesthood is eternal, not temporary. Unlike the priests of Aaron’s line, who had to offer sacrifices for their own sins and then for the people, Jesus is sinless and offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice. The author of Hebrews urges us not to look back longingly at former systems or ways of life, but to recognize that in Christ, we have a High Priest who is both fully qualified and forever able to intercede for us. Jesus’ priesthood is not just a replacement; it is the fulfillment and perfection of all that came before. [23:51]
Hebrews 5:5-6 (ESV)
So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “You are my Son, today I have begotten you”; as he says also in another place, “You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.”
Reflection: In what area of your life are you tempted to rely on old habits or systems instead of trusting Jesus as your perfect and eternal High Priest?
Day 3: Jesus Sympathizes with Us Sinlessly
Jesus is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, not because He shares in our sin, but because He experienced the full range of human suffering and temptation—yet without sin. In the garden, He prayed with loud cries and tears, fully submitting to the Father’s will, and was heard because of His reverence. This means that when we struggle, we have a Savior who truly understands, who has walked the path of obedience through suffering, and who stands ready to help us. His sympathy is not tainted by sin, but is perfect, compassionate, and powerful. [32:01]
Hebrews 4:15-16 (ESV)
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Reflection: Where do you most need to experience Jesus’ understanding and compassion today, and how can you bring that struggle honestly to Him in prayer?
Day 4: Learning Obedience Through Suffering
Jesus learned obedience through what He suffered, not because He was ever disobedient, but because He experienced the reality of human life and obedience firsthand. His suffering was not wasted; it was the means by which He was made perfect as our Savior, completing the work necessary for our salvation. In the same way, our own suffering can be a place where we learn deeper trust and obedience to God. Jesus’ example shows us that obedience is not always easy, but it is always worth it, and it is through obedience that God’s purposes are fulfilled in us. [35:23]
Philippians 2:8 (ESV)
And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
Reflection: What is one area where God is calling you to obey Him, even though it is difficult, and how can Jesus’ example encourage you to take that step?
Day 5: Don’t Romanticize the Past—Christ Is Far Better
It is easy to look back and imagine that life was simpler or better before following Christ, especially when current challenges feel overwhelming. But the truth is, the “good old days” were not always good, and what we have in Christ is far better than anything we left behind. Jesus offers us forgiveness, access to God, and a new way to live—not necessarily an easier way, but a better one. When we are tempted to drift or to long for the past, we must remember the incomparable hope and salvation we have in Jesus, our better High Priest. [41:20]
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
Reflection: Is there a part of your past you are tempted to romanticize or return to? How can you intentionally thank God today for the new life and hope you have in Christ?
Quotes
When we fail, we lean into the power of the sacrifice that Jesus provided. You see, we're tempted to maybe slide back. We're tempted to go back to before life was serious about God or Christian life or something. We think, man, it was a little bit easier, a little bit simpler back then. But it was not. And we romanticize that. And what the author here is telling us to do here is, you've got to remember what you have in Christ. [00:41:33] (28 seconds)
Can't you see why the author is saying, why in the world would you consider stop filing Jesus? He says, I just need you to remind you of this. You're forgetting. I just need to remind you of this. And he has great hope for these people. We're going to see this in chapter 6 where he gives a very strong warning, but then his ends with very positive hope for the people that he has here. He's like, you just need to be reminded of this. [00:38:50] (21 seconds)
And we're in danger of drifting when we romanticize the past. Like the original audience of Hebrews and the Israelites in the wilderness, we too find a temptation to go back. And it may not always be about following Christ or me or, you know, rejecting the gospel message, but there's ideas of what life was like before those times. [00:39:14] (22 seconds)
You see, Jesus is better. You want to put yourself lined up with this old system of a high priest, he says, Jesus is your high priest. You're not losing a high priest to following Jesus. You're just getting a better one. You're getting a better high priest here than what you had before. He was appointed by God. And then he talks about this idea of being in the order, verse 6 of Melchizedek. [00:25:15] (24 seconds)
So that qualification of this idea that he was appointed by God and in his lineage. But then remember, there was also the qualification of sympathy. Remember that? That he had to be sympathetic towards the people that he was ministering to because he himself was a sinner. That was in the old system. Here, it's better because Jesus can sinlessly sympathize with us. Remember chapter 4 in verse 15, it says this. It says, for we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. In chapter 5 in verse 7, he talks about in the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence here. Now, there's a lot in this verse that we need to unpack here real quick. Here, there's some things in there you're like, what's that about? Well, let's talk about that. When he talks about this idea of offering up prayers with loud cries and tears, what is he referring to there? People have different ideas about that. I think the thing that makes the most sense is that he's hearkening back when Jesus was in the garden. [00:26:51] (74 seconds)
When Jesus was in the garden, praying to the Father, remember some of the things he said there. He says, you know, if there be any way for this cup to pass from me, and the cup was symbolic of God's wrath, and what he was called to do is to bear that. He says, if there be any way for this cup to pass from me, let it be. But nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done. [00:28:05] (22 seconds)
We know that Jesus was in anguish. We know that Jesus was, he was so emotionally distraught over what he was about to do that he was sweating profusely, and that the tension was so great that blood vessels in his forehead burst, and then blood was coming through even the sweat pores. [00:28:26] (21 seconds)
Because it says he was heard, that God heard his prayer, and we know that Jesus did die. So, what is he talking about there? He's talking about this idea of all the effects of death. How death is final. He's talking about the realm of death, of how it is to stay in the punishment and the wrath of God. Because remember, that's how death entered this world, right? Remember the Garden of Eden? It says, in the day you eat of it, you will surely die. In Romans chapter 5, it talks about death passed upon all men, for all have sinned. In Romans chapter 6, it says, a wage of sin is death. And so, we know that it's tied to this, that he was going to have to bear on this. So, when it says that he was heard, what he's referring to is that he was delivered from the realm of death. We're talking about his resurrection here. Okay? And we know that he's talking about resurrection back in chapter 5. We discussed this in verse 5 of chapter 5 here. And he says, today I have begotten you. [00:29:46] (59 seconds)
Because I always think of Jesus as perfect, right? I always think of him as sinless. And so what does he have to learn? Well, just because you have to learn something doesn't necessarily mean that you're not sinless, right? Okay, and so that's not what he's talking about here. But it's this idea that it doesn't mean that Jesus was disobedient and then learned how to obey. It means that he learned through experience. [00:33:13] (24 seconds)
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