Hebrews 7:13-14 For the one of whom these things are spoken belonged to another tribe, from which no one has ever served at the altar. 14 For it is evident that our Lord was descended from Judah, and in connection with that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.
The new priest, Jesus the Messiah, came from a different tribe of Israel than Levi, namely, the tribe of Judah. The author is making a simple point: it is a surprise in the history and cultic practices of Israel that a priest should arise from the tribe of Judah. This is not what the ancient law said. It is clear in the law that the priests come from the tribe of Judah. The author may be countering an unstated argument from the legalist who would question how a priest could come from a different tribe than Levi. This would be breaking the law. Three key ideas are happening behind this verse. One, a different altar is at work. This is not the altar of the temple in Jerusalem but the altar in heaven. Two, Jesus is at an infinitely higher level than the Levitical priests. His sacrifice is much more effective and valuable than the blood of animals sacrificed on the altar at the temple. Third, Jesus is greater than Moses and the law. He brings a new way that fulfills the ancient law and invalidates its efforts to bring salvation. Each step of the logic in the letter should bring a sense of awe and a willingness to put our faith in Jesus.
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