By Paul Alberts
We find many things in the Bible about the offices of the Lord Jesus Christ: Prophet, Priest and King. This topic will be addressed in our Feature articles, but let’s just mention a few points now. In Scripture, individuals were anointed for these offices (a prophet, 1 Ki. 19:16; a priest, Ex. 30:25-30; a king, 1 Sam. 15:1). Anointing speaks of God’s choice (Lk. 4:18-19), and the oil used is suggestive of the Holy Spirit’s power (Acts 10:38). A prophet reveals God’s mind or thoughts; the priest represents man before God and God before men; and the king rules over a God-given domain. The Lord Jesus Christ is the supreme Prophet (Jn. 1:1-9,14; Mt. 7:28-29), Priest (Heb. 4:14-16) and King (1 Tim. 6:15; Rev. 17:14).
We know in the world in which we live, holding an office implies authority. Generally speaking, a head of state has a certain amount of power or control over the things related to a specific country. The aspect of authority applies in other settings as well, including education or religion; although in the world, things in these three areas are horribly out of tune with the thoughts of God.
Before Him, it is the responsibility of officeholders to act rightly and for the good of the people. Government, for example, is to commend those who do right and punish those who do wrong (1 Pet. 2:13-14), which is a matter of serving rather than self-glorification (Mt. 20:25-28). The priest was to be a mediator for grace and mercy with holiness (Heb. 4:16), and the prophet was to teach truth through words and deeds (Lk. 24:19).
It stands to reason that those under one’s authority are to obey (Rom. 13:6). However, do we show through our comments and actions that we recognize the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ as Prophet, Priest and King? How do His roles in these offices truly impact our lives? These are important questions, for our responses will affect our lives today, our rewards for eternity, and the glory of the Lord our God.
May we be thankful for all that we learn about our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.