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1
A Heavenly Priesthood Required
Commentators unanimously explain that Jesus could not have served as a priest on earth because that role was already filled. The Law of Moses designated priests exclusively from the tribe of Levi. Since Jesus was from the tribe of Judah, He was disqualified from the earthly priesthood, which highlights why His priestly ministry had to be in a different, heavenly realm.
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Book Overview
Hebrews
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Commentaries
7
Albert Barnes
On Hebrews 8:4
18th Century
Theologian
For if he were on earth, he should not be a Priest. He could not perform that office. The design of this is to show a reason why he was re…
AT Robertson
On Hebrews 8:4
On earth (επ γης). As opposed to εν τοις ουρανοις (verse 1). Condition of second class, determined as unfulfilled.
…
Charles Ellicott
On Hebrews 8:4
19th Century
Bishop
For if he were . . .—The oldest Greek manuscripts and two important versions read, “If then He were”; and two other changes in th…
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Expositor's Bible Commentary
On Hebrews 8:4
We must be clear that Christ’s priesthood is not one of this earth (even though his offering of himself took place here). There are divinely appoin…
John Calvin
On Hebrews 8:4
16th Century
Theologian
For if he were on earth, etc. It is now beyond dispute that Christ is a high priest. But, just as the office of a judge does not …
John Gill
On Hebrews 8:4
17th Century
Pastor
For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest
The Socinians from hence attempt to prove that Christ was not a p…
Matthew Henry
On Hebrews 8:1–6
17th Century
Minister
The substance, or summary, of what had been declared was that Christians had such a High Priest as they needed. He took upon himself human nature, …