“…our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13)
Why We Need a Prophet, a Priest, and a King
Jesus leads us, serves us, and provides an example for us as a Prophet, Priest, and King—three pastoral offices established in the Old Testament and fulfilled perfectly in Jesus.
In researching the topic, I came across the following concept, ultimately rooted in Scripture but expounded by John Calvin and others. I found it extremely encouraging and practical in considering the comprehensive work, ministry, and love of Jesus:
We need a prophet because we are ignorant
We are foolish in our understanding (Romans 1:21, 25). As Prophet, Jesus reveals truth in both his word and his life. He illuminates our ignorance.
We need a priest because we are guilty
We are born into sin and we commit sin (Genesis 6:5). As Priest, Jesus becomes our only, sufficient mediating sacrifice and our redemption from sin (Hebrews 4:14–15). His sacrifice cleanses our guilt.
We need a king because we are corrupt
We and our world are contaminated and polluted by sin (Ephesians 4:14–18). As King, Jesus rules over creation and the church, offering hope and deliverance from our corruption (John 1:3; Ephesians 4:15–16). His redemption will restore us and all of creation.
Jesus is precisely what we need.
– Jamie Munson