Q25. How does Christ carry out the office of a priest?
Christ carries out the office of a priest by offering himself once as a sacrifice to satisfy God’s justice and bring us back to God, and by always praying for us.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Hebrews 9:14, 28
“How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? … So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”
Hebrews 2:17
“Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”
Romans 5:10
“For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.”
Hebrews 7:25
“Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.”
Romans 8:34
“Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
How does Christ carry out the office of a priest?
- 2
What does it mean that Christ offered himself "once" as a sacrifice?
- 3
How does it help you to know that Jesus is always praying for you?
Illustration
In the Old Testament, priests had to offer sacrifices over and over, day after day. Jesus offered one sacrifice, himself, and it was enough to cover all the sins of his people for all time. He never needs to do it again.
Application
When you feel worried or guilty this week, remember that Jesus is praying for you right now at God's right hand. Because his sacrifice was enough, you do not need to earn God's favor. Thank him for his finished work.