Hebrews 7:21

"Inasmuch as he was not made priest without the taking of an oath"

Key Reflection

Hebrews 7:21 emphasizes that unlike the Levitical priests, Jesus became a priest through a special divine appointment confirmed by an oath. This oath, as stated in Psalm 110:4, ensures that "the Lord swore and will not change his mind, 'You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.'" The use of an oath underscores the uniqueness and permanence of Jesus' priesthood, setting it apart from the temporary nature of the Levitical system.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 21. For those priests were made without an oath. The Levitical priests were set apart and consecrated without their office being confirmed to them by an oath on the part of God. They received it by regular descent, and when they arrived at a suitable age they entered on it of course. Jesus received his office by special appointment, and it was secured to him by an oath. The word rendered "oath" is, in the margin, "swearing of an oath". This is the proper meaning of the Greek word, but the sense is not materially varied. But this with an oath. This priest, the Lord Jesus, became a priest in virtue of an oath. The Lord sware. See Barnes "Heb 6:3".

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