The Perfect Plan

Today's SOAP: 7/9/14

Scripture

If perfection could have been attained through the Levitical priesthood—and indeed the law given to the people established that priesthood—why was there still need for another priest to come, one in the order of Melchizedek, not in the order of Aaron? For when the priesthood is changed, the law must be changed also.

The former regulation is set aside because it was weak and useless (for the law made nothing perfect), and a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God. (Hebrews 7:11-12, 18-19 NIV)

Observation

In the Old Testament, the law given to Moses by God himself was introduced to His people as a standard to live by.  However, the law was established ironically to show the people that there was no possible way to ever attain perfection before God's eyes. The law only pushes us further away from God. But, then there's Jesus, the bridge between us and the Father. 

Application

Understanding that the only way to God is through Jesus' righteousness and His sacrifice, we should never take grace for granted.  Let us draw near to God through the hope that we have in Jesus. If we are weak or useless, we are not under the right priesthood. 

Prayer

Dear Jesus, you came to change our weakness into strength, our uselessness into effectiveness, and our hopelessness into full-blown access to you and the Father. I thank you for that. Helps us never take that for granted. In your name, amen!