Why Jesus’ Resurrection is Necessary for His Intercession

Beloved Kinney,

I read this morning in our church’s Bible reading plan this passage from the book of
Hebrews:

“The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from
continuing in office, but [Jesus] holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues
forever. 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.” (Heb. 7:23-25)

Why does the priestly work of Jesus continue forever? Because he’s not ever going to
die again. His resurrection from the dead, leading to an immortal life, is good news for
us because it means he will never stop his priestly work on our behalf.

What is his priestly work? The text says he makes intercession for us. He, in a very real
sense, is constantly pointing the Father’s attention to his finished work. He is our forever
mediator.

That’s why the text says, “he is able to save to the uttermost.” Jesus doesn’t partially
save. He doesn’t even mostly save. Jesus completely saves. He saves to the uttermost.
Why? Because he lives forever to keep his priestly work continuing.

What assurance! What joy to know that Christ always lives to intercede for us! May you
find confidence in his finished and complete and uttermost work as your great High
Priest.

Love,
Pastor Josh