Jesus: A Merciful and Faithful High Priest
Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. Hebrews 2:17
In order to forgive our sins, Jesus was made flesh so that He could identify with us. The Bible says, “He had to be made like His brethren” (Hebrews 2:17), so that He could be a Merciful and Faithful High Priest. Jesus didn’t forgive our sins without feeling or empathy. If He had done that, salvation would be impersonal and antiseptic. But when Jesus became human, He understood our temptations because He “was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). Therefore, Jesus feels for us. He is merciful, not vindictive or judgmental. Because Jesus is a merciful High Priest, you can go to Him for help.
Lord Jesus, I come to You for forgiveness. Thank You for understanding my weakness.
Jesus did more than a human high priest did; He is faithful even when we are not faithful. Just as there are stories of priests in the Old Testament who were not faithful to their office, so the Scriptures describe Him as a faithful High Priest. He was human as we are, so He understood human weaknesses. Even though we may disappoint Him, He never once was a disappointment to Himself or to the Father. Because He is faithful, He was able to make propitiation (satisfaction) for our sins.
Lord Jesus, You have never disappointed me, even though I have disappointed You. Even in my weakness, You forgive my sins. I’m thankful for Your mercy and faithfulness. Amen.
Go Deeper: Hebrews 2:17-18
Jesus became flesh so that He could be a Merciful and Faithful High Priest for my sins.
