Heavenly Sanctuary

Pastor Martin begins an in-depth treatment of Christ's priestly office, explaining that he departs from the traditional prophet-priest-king order because Scripture gives predominance to the priesthood and because the priestly office casts its shadow over the prophetic and kingly functions. He establishes the reality of Christ's priestly office two ways: Christ is specifically called a priest, and His work is described in strict priestly categories. He then unfolds the four essential ingredients of priestly function from Hebrews 5:1: taken from men, appointed for men, in things pertaining to God, to offer for sins.

Pastor Martin answers the question, by what specific activities does our great priest fulfill His task? He shows from the Old Testament Day of Atonement ritual in Leviticus 16 and its fulfillment in Hebrews that Christ's priestly work consists of two inseparable elements: oblation (the shedding of His blood) and intercession (the presentation of that blood in heaven). He argues that these must never be separated — like inhaling and exhaling, they form one complex priestly activity securing the salvation of God's people.