What does Hebrews 7:12 mean?

For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the law. Hebrews 7:12

Explanation

Hebrews 7:12 speaks to the transition from the Levitical priesthood, established under the Mosaic Law, to the priesthood of Jesus Christ. The verse suggests that with the change in priesthood comes a corresponding change in the law. The Levitical priesthood was tied to a specific lineage and a system of sacrifices and ceremonial ordinances. However, the coming of Christ and his establishment as the High Priest, according to the order of Melchizedek, implies a new arrangement or covenant. This new arrangement is not based on the law of physical requirement, but rather on the power of an indestructible life (Hebrews 7:16).

Historical Context

The Book of Hebrews was written to a group of early Christians who were likely of Jewish background. It addresses the struggles they faced in understanding and accepting the transition from the old covenant, established through the laws given to Moses, to the new covenant ushered in by Jesus Christ. During this period, Christianity was emerging from its Judaic roots, and many believers were familiar with the traditional importance of the Levitical priesthood and adherence to Mosaic law. The comparison between the Levitical priesthood and that of Jesus, who is likened to Melchizedek, is key to understanding the shift from the old covenant to the new.

Theological Insights

Various theological viewpoints may interpret Hebrews 7:12 differently. A traditional Christian perspective would see this as foundational for understanding the new covenant that Jesus brought, contrasting it with the old covenant’s reliance on the law and lineage. Catholic and Orthodox interpretations may emphasize the spiritual authority of Christ and his priesthood, which transcends the old law. Protestant reformers, like Martin Luther, might focus on this verse as a basis for the doctrine of Sola Fide, faith alone, meaning that salvation comes through faith in Christ’s sacrifice rather than adherence to the law.

Practical Applications

In daily life, Hebrews 7:12 can remind Christians that their relationship with God is based on faith in Christ rather than adherence to a set of rules or regulations. This could be applied to encourage a personal and spiritual approach to faith, embracing grace and the transformative power of Jesus rather than legalistic behavior.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 8:13: “In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.”
• Hebrews 5:5-6: “So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, today have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.”
• Jeremiah 31:31: “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:”

Language Study

The pivotal word in Hebrews 7:12 is “change” (Greek: metatithemi), which can mean to transfer, translate, or carry over. It describes the movement from one state to another—here, the shift from the old priestly order to the new. Another key term is “priesthood” (Greek: hierosyne), indicating a sacred office or the function of the priest. The significance is that the entire system and function, not just a single aspect, is being changed.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Hebrews 7:12 can be compared to religious transitions in other cultures, such as the movement from polytheism to monotheism, or the reforms within Hinduism and Buddhism that led to new interpretations and practices. These cultural shifts often reflect a change in understanding of the divine and can be seen as parallels to the shift described in Hebrews.

Scientific Perspectives

While Hebrews 7:12 doesn’t directly intersect with scientific concepts, the idea of transformation and change is a fundamental principle in both science and theology. Just as laws or theories in science may change with new discoveries and understanding, this verse suggests that spiritual understandings and practices can shift with new divine revelations.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars have interpreted Hebrews 7:12 in various ways. Some, like John Calvin, have emphasized the perfection of Christ’s priesthood in contrast to the temporary nature of the Levitical priesthood. Matthew Henry’s commentary suggests that the new law brought by Christ is written in the hearts of believers, emphasizing an inward, spiritual obedience rather than external rites. Modern scholars often discuss the verse in the context of a more general argument in Hebrews, which is the supremacy of Christ and his new covenant over the old.