Exploring Christ Our High Priest: Insights from Westminster Larger Catechism Question 44

Understanding the various roles that Christ plays in our faith can transform how we view our relationship with God. One of the most significant roles that Christ fulfills is that of our great High Priest. The Westminster Larger Catechism beautifully describes the concept. The catechism's framework helps us grasp how Christ fulfills his mission and offers us salvation through his unique priestly work.

Question 44 of the Catechism asks, “How does Christ execute the office of priest?” The answer reveals a profound truth: “Christ executes the office of a priest, in his once offering himself a sacrifice without spot to God, to be a reconciliation for the sins of his people; and in making continual intercession for them.” This answer captures two crucial aspects of Christ's work—his sacrificial offering and his ongoing intercession.

The Supremacy of Christ's Sacrifice as our High Priest

To appreciate the importance of Christ's sacrificial role, we must examine the nature of His offering. The phrase "offering himself a sacrifice without spot” highlights Christ's perfection. Unlike the sacrifices of the Old Testament—animals that were chosen but still flawed—Christ stands as the ultimate sacrifice. The lambs and other sacrifices of the Mosaic Law were required to be without blemish (Leviticus 22:19-25), but this did not mean they were without flaw. The fact that they had to be continually sacrificed for the people shows that there were still some flaws.

The Book of Hebrews reinforces this idea. In Hebrews 9:14, we read, "How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God." (ESV) This verse shows the effectiveness of Christ's sacrifice; it is both acceptable and transformative.

The concept of reconciliation is equally central to our understanding of the Gospel. Sin created a barrier between us and God, but through Christ, that gap is bridged. Romans 5:10 affirms this: "For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life." This reconciliation is a gift and a promise for all believers, ensuring a relationship with God that is not based on our actions, but solely on Christ's righteousness.

The Importance of Continual Intercession

Along with His sacrificial work, Christ continually intercedes for his people. This is an integral aspect of his priestly role today. Hebrews 7:25 states, "Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them."

The verse reveals much about Christ's relationship with us. Knowing that our High Priest advocates for us before the Father is comforting. Whenever we stumble, His intercession reassures us of His grace. Moreover, Hebrews 2:17 tells us, “Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.” Christ’s shared human experience allows him to sympathize with our struggles, enhancing the significance of his intercessory role.

The Fulfillment of Prophetic Role

It's crucial to connect Christ's priestly role with His prophetic duties. Previously, we discussed how Christ, as a prophet, reveals God's will and lays the groundwork for His redemptive work. While the prophet conveys God’s truths, the High Priest brings us directly into His presence.

These roles complement each other. The prophet foretells the Messiah’s coming and shares divine truths, while the priest fulfills that promise by offering His life as a sacrificial atonement. For instance, just as the prophet's teachings guide us, the priest’s actions redeem us, keeping us in close contact with God.

Our Response to Christ's Priesthood

Recognizing Christ's role as our High Priest calls for a personal response. It begs the question of how we should live.

Trusting in His Sacrifice

First, we must place our trust in the sufficiency of his sacrifice. This means understanding that our standing before God depends not on our actions but on what Christ has achieved. In moments of doubt or guilt, we must remind ourselves that his sacrifice was perfect and complete. "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1).

Drawing Near in Confidence

Second, Christ's ongoing intercession invites us to approach God with confidence. Hebrews 4:16 commands, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Thanks to Christ's work, our relationship with God is rooted in gratitude, love, and grace, not fear. This understanding also highlights the importance of prayer. When we pray, we do so with assurance that Christ is interceding for us. (Romans 8:26-27)

Living Out Our Faith

Lastly, understanding that Christ is our High Priest must inspire us to live purposefully. We receive grace upon grace, and in response, we are called to worship the Lord and serve others. Hebrews 13:16 reminds us, "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." Just as Christ intercedes for us, we are called to extend that love and grace to those around us.

Reflection on Christ’s Ministerial Role

The 44th question of the Westminster Larger Catechism offers meaningful insights into the essence of Christ’s work as our High Priest. Recognizing that "Christ executes the office of a priest, in his once offering himself a sacrifice without spot to God, to be a reconciliation for the sins of his people; and in making continual intercession for them" helps us to deepen our faith.

As we reflect on these truths, let us embrace Christ's sacrificial and intercessory roles. By trusting in his sacrifice, approaching God confidently, and embodying his grace in our actions, we live fully in the light of Christ as our true and everlasting High Priest.

Soli Deo Gloria