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YOU SHALL BE NAMED PRIESTS OF THE LORD

Text: Isaiah 61
26 April 2015

THE HOLY PRIESTHOOD

In the Old Testament, Aaron and his sons were set apart to become priests of the Lord. The books of Exodus, Leviticus and Numbers highlighted their ministry in very clear tones. The following points may be raised up for our meditation:-

  1. Called by the Lord

    a) Divinely called by the Lord

    b) Directly called

    c) Singled out and chosen

  2. Consecrated to serve the Lord

    a) The priests were carefully consecrated

    b) They were elaborately and ceremoniously consecrated

    c) They were specially provided for by the Lord

  3. Commitment was expected

    a)To serve the Lord in the Tabernacle

    b) To pray for the nation

    c) To minister to the people of the Lord

    i) Teaching

    ii) Offering of sacrifices

    iii) Praying

    iv) Counseling

THE FAILURE OF THE OLD TESTAMENT PRIESTHOOD

Sadly, the Aaronic priesthood failed. The Levites who were to assist them also failed to live up to expectations.
THE MELCHIZEDEK PRIESTHOOD

In God’s grace and provision, He anointed the Lord Jesus as High Priest. His order was an even greater one than that of the Aaronic Priesthood! How wonderful it is to read these words.

But you shall be named priests of the LORD,
They shall call you the servants of our God.      Isaiah 61:6

The counterpart of this glorious prophetic word is found in the following text.

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood,
A holy nation, His own special people,
That you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you
Out of darkness into His marvellous light.    1 Peter 2:9

Let us determine to be grateful and faithful servants of the Lord!