(Hebrews 4:14) We have a great high priest.

One theological topic that is often neglected by many Christians today is that Jesus is our eternal High Priest.

On Mount Sinai, God declared that only Israel’s high priest could enter the presence of God in the Most Holy Place once a year on the Day of Atonement.

No one could enter the direct presence of God to represent the people of Israel and make atonement for their sins except the Levitical high priest.

He could enter the Most Holy Place before the Ark of the Covenant—the symbol of God’s presence—only once a year.

For Christians, Jesus is our Great High Priest now.

After His death and resurrection, He ascended into the direct presence of God on our behalf forever.

Entering heaven, He offered His own blood, shed on the cross, for the forgiveness of our sins.

Animal sacrifices are no longer needed.

He then poured out the Holy Spirit upon the entire world.

Jesus now remains our Great High Priest, enthroned in heaven.

He continues to intercede for us.

He is praying for us right now--daily.

He is the Head of the Church.

He is active in our lives through the presence and work of the Holy Spirit.

No longer are daily sacrifices required for our forgiveness.

He paid the full price through His death on the cross.

As our Great High Priest, He personally identifies with our weaknesses and struggles.

He became fully human, as we are, and faced every temptation that we face, yet without sin.

Today, Jesus is enthroned in the presence of God.

He also invites us into God's presence.

We are in Christ!

Forever!