Royal Priesthood
The concept of "royal priesthood" is rooted in 1 Peter 2:9, which states, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." This passage emphasizes the dual identity of believers in Christ as both kings and priests. The term "royal" signifies a regal status, indicating that believers share in the authority and sovereignty of Christ, the King. The priesthood aspect highlights their role as mediators between God and humanity, tasked with offering spiritual sacrifices and serving in worship.The idea of a royal priesthood draws on the Old Testament, particularly the roles of the Levitical priests and the kingly line of David. In Exodus 19:6, God tells the Israelites, "you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation," indicating that all of Israel was called to serve God and represent Him to the nations. This priestly role is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is both the high priest and the King, as seen in Hebrews 7. Therefore, the "royal priesthood" signifies that all believers are not only called to serve God but are also empowered to reign with Him, reflecting His glory and grace to the world.
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A Royal Priesthood 1
By Anton Bosch99840:51EPH 4:111PE 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preparing and equipping the people of God for the work of ministry. He compares it to parenting, stating that just as parents should teach their children to be independent, leaders in the church should teach and train believers to do the work of ministry. The speaker references Ephesians 4:11-12, which states that God has given apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip the saints for the work of ministry. He highlights the need for leaders to focus on training and teaching, rather than simply teaching the Word of God, in order to empower believers to serve and build up the body of Christ.
Princes of the Sanctuary.
By F.B. Meyer0ROM 8:37ROM 12:12CO 5:17EPH 2:6PHP 4:13COL 3:1HEB 4:161PE 2:91JN 5:4REV 1:6F.B. Meyer emphasizes that being in the sanctuary is not sufficient; we must embody the qualities of princes within it. This regal identity is characterized by humility, peace, and self-control, and is only attainable through our relationship with the exalted Lamb, who makes us both kings and priests. As priests, we are called to present ourselves as living sacrifices and intercede for the world, while as kings, we are empowered to overcome sin and live in victory through God's grace. Meyer encourages believers to recognize and embrace their royal status in Christ, which is rooted in holiness and blamelessness.
The Original Meaning of Zion
By George Warnock02SA 5:6George Warnock explores the original meaning of Zion, emphasizing its historical significance as a stronghold and the spiritual implications of David's actions in establishing a royal priesthood there. He highlights how David, though not a priest by lineage, exercised priestly prerogatives, such as partaking of holy bread and wearing priestly garments, symbolizing a deeper communion with God. Warnock draws parallels between David's access to God and the New Testament concept of the priesthood of all believers, urging the church to prioritize priestly ministry over the pursuit of power. The sermon underscores the importance of humility and faith in approaching God, as exemplified by David's desire to dwell in God's presence. Ultimately, Warnock calls for a return to the foundational principles of priesthood before establishing authority in the church.
A Royal Priesthood 2
By Anton Bosch83248:11ACT 14:11CO 14:26In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the church is not just the hour-long service, but also the fellowship and ministry that happens before and after. He encourages the congregation to be a unique and special people of God, rather than trying to be like every other church. The speaker highlights the importance of every member of the church functioning and contributing, comparing it to the functionality of the human body. He also mentions the need for pastors to equip and empower the church to function on their own, allowing individuals to grow and fulfill their roles.
A Kingdom of Priests
By G.W. North0EXO 12:3G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the Passover in Israel's history, illustrating how each household became a priest unto God by personally handling and consuming the lamb, symbolizing their direct relationship with Him. This act of individual participation in the Passover feast was a divine design to establish a kingdom of priests, where every Israelite was seen as a priest without the need for a separate priesthood at that time. North highlights that the Passover was not merely a ritual but a profound declaration of Israel's identity as God's firstborn and a holy nation, setting the stage for the New Covenant introduced by Jesus. The sermon underscores the importance of personal engagement with God and the communal identity of believers as a royal priesthood.