By T. W. Parker

God’s intention for humanity is perfect fellowship with Him in His holy realm. He entrusted Adam and Eve with the privilege of tending and extending His realm throughout the earth, a privilege that (Gen. 1:1, NIV) depicts in both royal and priestly terms. Their rebellion necessitated their expulsion from God’s holy realm, which resulted in the loss of their sacred, priestly status. Further, God’s redemptive plan is outlined in the Abrahamic promises (Gen. 12:1-3) and is articulated at Sinai with Israel as “a Kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exod. 19:6). For this reason, His plan has always involved a restoration of the holy status initially intended for humanity.

Moreover, in the (NT), titles applied to Israel at Sinai are applied to believers (1 Peter. 2:9-10, Rev. 1:6, 5:10), both Jews and Gentiles. Likewise, as Israel was set apart and spared by the blood of the Passover lamb in Egypt (Exod. 12:21-23), believers are also made holy by the shed blood of the Lamb (1 Peter. 1:18-19). The apostle Peter describes a new temple built upon Jesus Christ, the cornerstone, with believers as “living stones” who offer spiritual sacrifices (1 Peter. 2:4-5) and their very lives (Rom. 12:1-2) and thanksgiving (Heb. 13:15-16).

As a result, believers, as priests, declare God’s praises to the world, fulfilling what Isaiah foresaw (Isa. 66:19-21, 61:6, Rom. 15:16). Priestly service ultimately involves worshiping the living God now (Heb. 9:14) and forever before His throne (Rev. 7:9-17, 20:6). We must worship Him daily, in Spirit and truth!