Hebrews 6:20

“Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”

Context:This verse concludes a passage in the Book of Hebrews that emphasizes the superiority of Jesus Christ’s priesthood compared to the Levitical priesthood established under the Mosaic Law.

To better understand this verse, it is helpful to examine the preceding verses. In Hebrews 6:19, the author writes, “Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil.” This verse refers to the hope that believers have in Christ, which is described as an anchor for the soul.

Hebrews 6:20 builds upon this imagery by stating that Jesus, our “forerunner,” has entered into the heavenly sanctuary, where God’s presence dwells. The term “forerunner” implies that Jesus has gone ahead of us, leading the way into the heavenly realm.

Furthermore, the verse states that Jesus has become a “high priest forever after the order of Melchisedec.” This reference to Melchisedec is crucial in understanding the superiority of Jesus’ priesthood. In the Old Testament, Melchisedec was a mysterious figure who blessed Abraham and received tithes from him.

Hebrews chapters 5 and 7 provide an extensive explanation of how Jesus’ priesthood is superior to the Levitical priesthood. According to Hebrews 5:6, Jesus was appointed by God as a high priest in the order of Melchisedec.

By identifying Jesus as a high priest after the order of Melchisedec, Hebrews highlights the eternal and unchanging nature of His priesthood. Jesus serves as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity, securing our access to God’s presence and interceding on our behalf.