Sacerdotalists

The term "sacerdotalists" generally refers to those who advocate for the priestly functions and roles as central to the practice of worship and the mediation between God and humanity. This concept is rooted in the biblical understanding of the priesthood, particularly in the Old Testament, where priests served as intermediaries, performing sacrifices and rituals on behalf of the people. The Levitical priesthood, established in the books of Exodus and Leviticus, is a significant example (Exodus 28-29; Leviticus 8-10), emphasizing the sacred duties and the importance of maintaining holiness.In the New Testament, while the priestly role is transformed through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the "High Priest" (Hebrews 4:14-16), the concept of sacerdotalism can still be discerned in various Christian traditions that emphasize the importance of ordained clergy in administering sacraments and leading worship. For instance, the Roman Catholic Church upholds a sacerdotal view of the priesthood, where priests act as mediators of grace through the sacraments, reflecting the Old Testament priestly functions. In contrast, many Protestant denominations emphasize the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9), which democratizes access to God, thereby presenting a different interpretation of sacerdotalism.