Jesus Has Made Us To Be a Kingdom of Priests

Today's Word of Encouragement from Wayne:

"To Him who loves us and released us from our sins by His blood - and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father - to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen"

Revelation 1:5-6

This dedication from the apostle John, in the opening verses of the book of Revelation, clearly states that Jesus Christ "loves us," has "released us from our sins by His blood" and, importantly, simultaneously, "He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father." Jesus Christ’s love for you and His shedding His blood for you is important, wouldn’t you say? So, how important do you think your being made part of a kingdom of priests unto God is?

I say that your acceptance and understanding of your priesthood is extremely important. In fact one could argue that the progression unfolded in this Scripture clearly shows us this pattern: first God loved us, then He saved us, and then this loving salvation culminated in, "He has made us," past tense please notice, "to be a kingdom of priests." This is all part of God’s plan. This is the fulfillment of the inner court priesthood of the Old Testament, that special place and special people between the "Holy of Holies," where the actual presence of God dwelt, and the "outer court" where the sins of the people were atoned for through acts of sacrifice and cleansing.

The "inner court" priesthood is where people "ministered unto the Lord." These were special priests, highly favored priests, invited to be as close to God’s presence as possible (read Ezekiel, chapters 44-48). This grace is extended to you today, and to all of God’s children in Jesus Christ. You have already received His love and His salvation, I pray. Now receive your priesthood today. Hallelujah!