High Priest of Good Things to Come - Ajay Chakravarthy - May 5, 2019
http://rlcfchurch.org/high-priest-good-things-come River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon emphasizes that Christians are called to be a 'kingdom of priests' in the New Covenant, not just a select few. Drawing from scripture, the speaker highlights that believers, as living stones, are built up into a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices through Jesus Christ. The message encourages the congregation to examine their spiritual standing by asking if they have received Christ, as this is the prerequisite for participating in this priesthood.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Good things to come under our high priestThe Christian life looks forward to better things, just as the best wine was saved for last at the wedding in Cana.Hebrews 9:11
Are there priests in the New Covenant?Unlike the specific offices listed in Ephesians, the New Testament teaches that all believers make up a kingdom of priests.Revelation 1:6
God's original heart for all peopleFrom Exodus and the early priesthood of Melchizedek, God's desire was always a universal priesthood rather than just one exclusive tribe.Exodus 19:5
Zechariah's service and surpriseZechariah served faithfully as a descendant of Aaron, but the prophecy regarding his son pointed toward a greater prophet who would meet with God directly.
Fear versus drawing nearThe people at Mount Sinai trembled and kept their distance, while Moses boldly approached God's presence.Exodus 20:18
Aaron's failures and God's planningDespite Aaron making the golden calf, God meticulously planned beautiful garments and glory for him, showing His loving patience.Exodus 28:2
The tinkling bells and a clear conscienceHigh priests wore bells to signal they were still alive, reflecting a life of fear, whereas 1 John invites believers into joyful fellowship and confession.Exodus 28:33
A conscience free from the reminder of sinOld covenant sacrifices offered a yearly reminder of sin without perfecting the conscience, but Christ provides a better way.Hebrews 10:1–3
Blood that is not one's ownThe old priesthood relied on animals suffering and leaders avoiding personal inconvenience, but Jesus offered Himself.John 19:31
Obligation versus joyful willingnessWhile the Levitical priests operated under a legal command and obligation, Jesus came with excitement to do the Father's will.Hebrews 7:5
Carrying each other's names on our heartsJust as Aaron carried the names of Israel on his breastplate, New Covenant priests carry one another in love and intercession.Exodus 28:29
Joseph as a picture of Christ's forgivenessJust as Joseph told his brothers not to be grieved over past wrongs, Jesus invites believers to draw near to Him without anger or fear.Genesis 45:4–5
