Hebrews 7:11-25

¹¹So if perfection was through the Levitical priesthood (for on the basis of it the people received the Law), what further need was there for another priest to arise according to the order of Melchizedek, and not be designated according to the order of Aaron? ¹²For when the priesthood is changed, of necessity there takes place a change of law also. ¹³For the one about whom these things are said belongs to another tribe, from which no one has officiated at the altar. ¹⁴For it is evident that our Lord was descended from Judah, a tribe with reference to which Moses said nothing concerning priests. ¹⁵And this is clearer still, if another priest arises according to the likeness of Melchizedek, ¹⁶who has become a priest not on the basis of a law of physical requirement, but according to the power of an indestructible life. ¹⁷For it is attested of Him,

“You are a priest forever

According to the order of Melchizedek.”

¹⁸For, on the one hand, there is the nullification of a former commandment because of its weakness and uselessness ¹⁹(for the Law made nothing perfect); on the other hand, there is the introduction of a better hope, through which we come near to God. ²⁰And to the extent that it was not without an oath ²¹(for they indeed became priests without an oath, but He with an oath through the One who said to Him,

“The Lord has sworn

And will not change His mind,

‘You are a priest forever’ ”);

²²by the same extent Jesus also has become the guarantee of a better covenant.

²³The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing; ²⁴Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently. ²⁵Therefore He is also able to save forever those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.