Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.
Hebrews 7:26 NIV
What do we need from a high priest? The author of Hebrews is referring here to the Old Testament high priest. Each year, on the Day of Atonement, the high priest would present a sin offering for the sins of the people, making atonement for them. But before he could do that he had to first offer a sin offering for his own sin. While the high priest was set apart from the rest of the assembly, he was sinful himself and in need of atonement.
But Jesus came as a high priest who did not need forgiveness. He was holy, blameless, and pure. Set apart from sinners and exalted above the heavens. He had no need to offer a sacrifice for his own sin. And he was able to offer himself as the perfect lamb, making permanent atonement for those who believe in him. His sacrifice was once and for all. With no need to repeat each year.
Jesus is our exalted high priest. Sitting at the right hand of God, he is always ready to make intercession for us. And that truly meets my needs.
